2022 Cadillac XT5 vs 2021 Toyota RAV4

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 presented a rugged exterior that echoed the traditional SUV style, with boxy fender flares, chiseled taillights, and a scowling front end. This aggressive look set it apart from previous RAV4 generations and other compact crossovers, enhancing its appeal as more than just an ordinary vehicle. Despite its bold styling, the RAV4 was built on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, shared with other Toyota models, which meant its mechanical underpinnings were more akin to a Camry than a 4Runner. The RAV4 offered options like the Adventure model with a retro Ice Edge roof and the TRD Off-Road with matte black wheels and rugged interior accents, but even the highest trims lacked real leather upholstery.

In contrast, the 2022 Cadillac XT5 combined Cadillac’s signature design elements with a compact footprint and tall profile, resulting in a somewhat ungainly appearance. The Premium Luxury and Sport models featured distinct styling cues, with the former showcasing bright chrome and the latter opting for darker trim and a mesh grille. The XT5’s interior, especially with the optional Platinum Package, felt luxurious with semi-aniline leather and a microfiber sueded headliner, but lacked a strong design theme. While it didn’t make a bold statement like some competitors, the XT5 maintained a quiet cabin, contributing to its luxury appeal.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 was powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered standard front-wheel drive and optional all-wheel drive. The engine boasted 40% thermal efficiency, a feature typically found in racing engines, and delivered power at high RPMs. However, the transmission struggled to keep up, and the steering lacked feel, making the driving experience less dynamic. The RAV4 excelled on highways with low cabin noise and a comfortable suspension, but its off-road capabilities were limited despite features like a torque-vectoring rear axle and 8.6 inches of ground clearance.

The 2022 Cadillac XT5 offered two engine options: a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.6-liter V6 with 310 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission. The V6 provided ample power for daily driving, with smooth power delivery and quick shifts. The optional performance suspension with adaptive dampers offered a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps while maintaining body control. The steering was well-suited for luxury driving, and the cabin remained impressively quiet, enhancing the overall driving experience.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 featured a tall, upright roof that provided ample headroom and good outward visibility. However, legroom was slightly lacking compared to competitors. The front seats were comfortable, but the rear seats had hard cushions, making long trips less appealing. Cargo space was above average at 37.6 cubic feet with the rear seats in place, though still behind the Honda CR-V. The interior included functional oversized knobs and steering-wheel controls, but lacked large cupholders and storage space on the console.

The 2022 Cadillac XT5 offered competitive interior space, with more front headroom than the Audi Q5 and Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, but less than the BMW X3. It provided more legroom in both rows compared to its German rivals, though the seats could have been more comfortable. Cargo space was 30 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 63 cubic feet with them folded, surpassing the Q5, X3, and GLC. The XT5 included a small cubbyhole below the touchscreen for additional storage, but the center console was limited in space due to the rotary controller and shifter.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 came standard with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Most trims featured a 7-inch touchscreen, with higher trims offering larger screens. The infotainment system was user-friendly but not particularly advanced, lacking features like a head-up display available on the RAV4 Prime. The system provided a straightforward interface, making it easy to navigate.

The 2022 Cadillac XT5 included an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. An optional Technology Package added a digital instrument cluster and head-up display. While improved over previous systems, the XT5’s tech was still basic compared to other luxury brands. The touchscreen was easy to use, but secondary controls were cumbersome, and capacitive touchpads lacked feedback. The optional Bose Performance Series 14-speaker system delivered excellent sound quality.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 received a “Top Safety Pick” rating from the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention. However, it missed the highest rating due to mixed headlight scores. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall rating. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and more. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2022 Cadillac XT5 came standard with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and other safety features. An optional Driver Assist Package added adaptive cruise control and enhanced braking. The XT5 received top scores in IIHS crash tests and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. However, it had a “Marginal” headlight rating and an “Acceptable” LATCH rating.