2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid vs 2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Limited, with its MSRP of $42,083, presented a fully-loaded experience that was somewhat unexpected for a RAV4. Despite its high price, the vehicle maintained a rental car appearance, lacking the larger wheels of its non-hybrid counterpart. The RAV4 Hybrid's electronic AWD system was not suited for an Adventure trim level, but it still managed to convey a rugged charm. Inside, the RAV4 Hybrid combined style and practicality, though the quality varied with a mix of impressive materials and hard plastics. A minor rattle from the license plate was noted, but overall, the interior was functional and user-friendly.

The 2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid, introduced with a two-motor hybrid powertrain, retained the familiar look of its gas-only siblings, with subtle distinctions like "Hybrid" badges and blue Honda logos. The CR-V Hybrid was more powerful and enjoyable to drive than its gasoline counterpart. Inside, it featured unique instrumentation and paddles for regenerative braking. Available in EX, EX-L, and Touring trims, the CR-V Hybrid offered standard AWD and a price range from $30,560 to $36,350. The Touring trim, with its premium features and elegant interior, was priced at $37,920. However, the fake wood trim detracted from the otherwise upscale cabin.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with electric motors, producing 219 horsepower. This setup provided standard AWD and several driving modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, Trail, and EV. The RAV4 Hybrid weighed between 3,690 and 3,780 pounds, offering lively acceleration and a combined EPA rating of 40 mpg, with a tested average of 39.7 mpg. The CVT operated smoothly, and the regenerative braking system was effective. The RAV4 Hybrid's suspension and steering contributed to a comfortable ride, though the tires lacked grip during spirited driving. With 8.1 inches of ground clearance, it handled light off-road conditions well.

The 2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid featured a 2.0-liter engine paired with electric motors, delivering 212 horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque. It offered three driving modes—EV Drive, Hybrid Drive, and Engine Drive—along with Econ, Sport, and EV modes. The CR-V Hybrid's added weight improved weight distribution and maintained 8.2 inches of ground clearance. It provided a pleasant driving experience, though it fell short of its EPA rating of 38 mpg, achieving only 33.7 mpg in testing. The CR-V Hybrid's driving dynamics were enjoyable, but its fuel efficiency lagged behind the RAV4 Hybrid.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid offered comfort with an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, heated and ventilated front seats, and decent rear-seat legroom. The dashboard was well-organized, with oversized climate control knobs and an easy-to-use infotainment system. Storage was ample, with useful shelves and a roomy 37.5 cubic-foot cargo area, expandable to 69.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid excelled in passenger comfort, with supportive front seats and remarkable rear-seat space. The driver's seat offered 12-way power adjustment, while the rear seat provided excellent leg support and comfort. Interior storage was impressive, though the wireless smartphone charger occupied significant space. The CR-V Hybrid's cargo area held 33.2 cubic feet, expandable to 68.7 cubic feet, though it was less than the standard CR-V and the RAV4 Hybrid.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid featured infotainment systems with 7-inch or 8-inch displays, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The top-tier system included an 11-speaker JBL audio system and dynamic navigation. The 8-inch display was user-friendly, with shortcut buttons and stereo knobs. Camera-based technology, like a 360-degree camera system, was available.

The 2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid's infotainment system, redesigned in 2017, had a 7-inch touchscreen with a power/volume knob. It lacked a tuning knob and had slow startup times. Voice recognition was limited, but Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available. The Touring trim included a nine-speaker audio system and wireless smartphone charging, though the latter was a space-consuming addition.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, featuring adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. It earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and top marks from the IIHS, except for its headlights.

The 2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid included Honda Sensing, with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. It also had blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The CR-V Hybrid received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS.