2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid vs 2022 Toyota 4Runner

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Limited, priced at $42,083 with nearly every option, appeared unassuming despite its fully-loaded status. It lacked the larger wheels of the non-hybrid RAV4 Limited and missed out on the Adventure trim level. However, it maintained a tough exterior, needing only bolder wheels to enhance its look. Inside, the RAV4 Hybrid was stylish and practical, though it had a mix of high-quality materials and glossy hard plastics. A rattle from the license plate was a minor annoyance.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner, rooted in the 1980s SUV craze, retained its rugged construction and pickup truck underpinnings. Unlike many modern SUVs, it stayed true to its adventurous spirit, with a high ride height, boxy proportions, and a sharply angled front bumper. Inside, the 4Runner's design felt dated, reminiscent of the late 2000s. However, it offered a range of trims, from the basic SR5 to the off-road-ready TRD Pro, each with unique features catering to different needs.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gas engine with front and rear electric motors, producing 219 horsepower. The rear electric motor provided standard AWD. The RAV4 Hybrid offered several driving modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, Trail, and EV. It weighed between 3,690 and 3,780 pounds, and its instant electric-motor torque made it feel lively. The EPA rated it at 40 mpg in combined driving, and it averaged 39.7 mpg in testing. The CVT operated smoothly, and the regenerative braking system was effective. The RAV4 Hybrid handled well, though its tires lacked grip, and it was comfortable on daily drives and light off-road trails.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner featured a 4.0-liter V6 engine with 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. It offered either rear-wheel drive or 4WD with low range. The 4Runner's ride was harsh and cumbersome on paved roads, with significant body roll and jostling over bumps. However, off-road, it excelled, with the suspension absorbing rocks and bumps effortlessly. The TRD Pro and TRD Off-Road models included Crawl Control and a locking differential. The 4Runner could tow up to 5,000 pounds, more than most car-based crossovers.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid provided comfort with an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, a heated steering wheel, and heated and ventilated front seats. Rear-seat legroom and foot space were decent, with a reclining backrest and air conditioning vents. The dashboard was well-organized, with large 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 2022 Toyota 4Runner offered a maximum of 89.7 cubic feet of cargo space in the two-row version, with 47.2 cubic feet behind the second row. The three-row model had slightly less space, with 88.8 cubic feet maximum and just 9 cubic feet behind the rear seats. The 4Runner lacked a power rear liftgate but featured a power-open/close rear window. The cabin felt less spacious compared to modern SUVs, but it had plenty of storage spaces for gear.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid came with either a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen display, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The top-tier system included an 11-speaker JBL audio system, dynamic navigation, and various connected services. The 8-inch display was user-friendly, with shortcut buttons and knobs for primary functions. The RAV4 Hybrid also offered a 360-degree camera system and a rearview camera mirror.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, Bluetooth, Satellite Radio, and multiple USB ports. Navigation, HD radio, and a 15-speaker JBL audio system were available upgrades. The system relied on tactile controls, making it easy to use even with gloves. While it lacked advanced features like a head-up display, it covered the tech basics effectively.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid included Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, lane-centering assist, automatic high beams, and road-sign recognition. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic warning were standard on most trims, with rear automatic braking available on the Hybrid Limited. The RAV4 Hybrid earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and top marks from the IIHS, except for its headlights.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner came with Toyota Safety Sense, including forward automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and lane-departure warning. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, parking sensors, and a 360-degree camera system. The 4Runner earned four stars for frontal and side-impact testing and three stars for rollover testing from the NHTSA. It had not been evaluated by the IIHS.