2021 Honda HR-V vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

The 2021 Honda HR-V presented a softer, friendlier appearance compared to Honda's larger SUVs, which typically featured more traditional and intimidating designs. Its distinctive styling included unique window lines converging near the taillights, housing the rear door handles. Most trims came with 17-inch alloy wheels, while the Sport model boasted matte-black 18-inch wheels and blacked-out trim. The interior, though plain, was functional and well-constructed, with good material quality. Higher trims like the EX and EX-L offered features such as push-button start, automatic climate control, a moonroof, and heated front seats, with the EX-L adding leather upholstery.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota RAV4, a mature crossover SUV, evolved from its original "cute-ute" category to become a sales leader. Its exterior design, while fitting in with current crossover trends, featured angular wheel arches and crisp lines, creating a playful yet aggressive look. The RAV4's interior showcased a layered dash with contrasting textures and colors, anchored by a straightforward center stack. The touchscreen interface was conveniently positioned for minimal driver distraction. Unique design elements, like a circuit-board-inspired pattern, tied the cabin together, and the Adventure-trim test vehicle featured 19-inch matte gray alloy wheels.

The 2021 Honda HR-V was powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine producing 141 horsepower and 127 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). While all-wheel drive (AWD) was available, front-wheel drive (FWD) was standard. The HR-V's powertrain was considered underpowered for highway driving, and the CVT was deemed ineffective. However, the HR-V's chassis offered a rewarding driving experience on twisty roads, living up to Honda's reputation for fun cars. Despite its limitations in rough terrain and towing, the HR-V provided decent ride quality.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered three powertrains, with the gasoline-only model featuring a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission was standard, with AWD available. The RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter engine with an electric motor for 217 net horsepower, while the RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid delivered 302 horsepower and up to 42 miles of electric-only range. The RAV4's performance was smooth and responsive, with three drive modes to tailor the driving experience. Its car-like handling and advanced suspension system provided a comfortable ride, with AWD models offering enhanced traction and handling.

The 2021 Honda HR-V excelled in cargo space, offering 58.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded (57.6 for AWD models) and 24.3 cubic feet with them up (23.2 for AWD). It surpassed many competitors in cargo capacity and rear-seat legroom, though front-seat legroom and headroom were average. The HR-V's interior featured sensibly-designed controls, including large climate control knobs and an audio volume knob, with a standard tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel for easy driving position adjustments.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, classified as a small SUV, provided 37.5 cubic feet of luggage space behind the second row, expanding to 69.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. It had a healthy payload capacity and impressive towing capabilities, with different models rated for varying tow capacities. Inside, the RAV4 was roomy and comfortable, with ample space for four adults and numerous storage options. The front row offered generous legroom and headroom, while the second-row bench seat accommodated passengers comfortably.

The 2021 Honda HR-V's base LX trim included standard Bluetooth, a 5-inch display, and a four-speaker audio system. Upgrading to the Sport trim provided a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The EX and EX-L trims added SiriusXM satellite radio. While the infotainment system was functional, the optional 7-inch touchscreen was considered small, and competitors offered more standard features.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came with a robust technology suite, including a 7-inch touchscreen, six-speaker audio, and compatibility with Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and Apple CarPlay. Higher trims featured a 9-inch touchscreen and an 11-speaker JBL audio system with navigation. The RAV4 Prime showcased advanced technology, with multiple USB ports, auxiliary power outlets, and a wireless charging pad. A bird’s-eye view camera system and a head-up display were available on top trims.

The 2021 Honda HR-V received top "Good" scores in IIHS crash tests and a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. However, it had "Marginal" and "Poor" headlight ratings and an "Acceptable" LATCH rating. Honda Sensing safety features were available on higher trims, including forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 included the Star Safety System and Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 as standard, offering features like adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and automatic high beams. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring and parking assist. The RAV4 was an IIHS Top Safety Pick, with the RAV4 Prime earning a Top Safety Pick+ rating. NHTSA awarded the RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid five-star ratings.