2022 Ford Explorer vs 2021 Toyota RAV4

Toyota understood that buyers turned to crossovers for their styling, and thus, the 2021 RAV4 boasted a rugged-looking exterior reminiscent of a traditional SUV. Elements such as boxy fender flares, chiseled taillights, and a scowling front end distinguished it sharply from previous RAV4 generations as well as current compact crossovers. The aggressive yet standout exterior added to the perception that the RAV4 was more than just an ordinary vehicle, despite being underpinned by the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, which was common among Toyota models.

The RAV4 Adventure and TRD Off-Road models offered slight aesthetic enhancements like an Ice Edge roof, matte black 18-inch wheels, and dark gray exterior trims. Inside, the RAV4 received rugged touches such as large rubberized knobs and door handles, although the interior quality did not elevate significantly with pricier trims. The TRD Off-Road version featured SofTex upholstery which Toyota claimed to be lighter and more durable than leather, though real leather wasn't available even on the top-tier Limited trim.

In contrast, the 2022 Ford Explorer presented itself with an athletic design, featuring a long and tall hood, short front overhang, and a rakish roofline. The blacked-out roof pillars created a "floating roof" visual effect. Our test vehicle, the Explorer King Ranch, included features such as King Ranch emblems, shiny 20-inch 10-spoke wheels, and quad exhaust outlets. Thanks to its rear-drive platform, the Explorer managed a robust and appealing SUV appearance. Inside, the Explorer King Ranch stood out with Del Rio leather seating and King Ranch branding on the seats and center armrest. Although the King Ranch’s interior displayed a mix of quality and questionable materials, it mostly aligned with its premium price tag.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 came equipped with a sole “Dynamic Force” 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, offered either standard front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive. The engine’s high thermal efficiency and revving capability were impressive, although the transmission often lagged, and the steering lacked tactile feedback. While the RAV4 boasted commendable cabin noise levels and suspension on highways, its on-road dynamics were ordinary and off-road capabilities remained limited compared to true off-road vehicles.

On the other hand, the 2022 Ford Explorer provided three powertrain options. The turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine, available on several trim levels, produced 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. For those seeking better fuel economy, a hybrid drivetrain offered a combined 318 horsepower and better fuel efficiency, but was only available on select trims. The more powerful twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, generating 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque, was standard for higher trims, providing significant power and a likable exhaust note. The 2022 Explorer’s ride felt substantial and capable, though its rear-drive platform and enhanced ground clearance on the Timberline model made it better suited for off-road adventures. The Explorer also displayed athleticism in daily driving, especially with the sport-tuned ST version available.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 offered ample headroom, competitive with other models due to its tall and upright roof. While the front seats were particularly comfortable, the rear seats were flat and hard, making long journeys less appealing. It featured a non-sliding 60/40 split-folding rear bench seat. With the rear seats up, the RAV4 provided 37.6 cubic feet of cargo space, though this was less than the segment-leading Honda CR-V. Practical controls and decent storage capacity were other noteworthy elements.

In comparison, the 2022 Ford Explorer catered to families with comforting features such as heated and ventilated seats, power adjustments, and manual side window sunshades for the second-row seats. The Explorer’s third-row seating was tight, generally suitable only for children. While the King Ranch model boasted luxury features like a power-adjustable heated steering wheel and massaging front seats, the Explorer lacked practical storage solutions within the cabin, though it made up for this with built-in cupholders and a spacious cargo area. Its cargo space ranged from 18.2 cubic feet with all seats in use to a maximum of 87.8 cubic feet with both rear rows folded down, offering significantly more space compared to the RAV4.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4’s tech offering included standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with Amazon Alexa compatibility and satellite radio. It featured varying touchscreen sizes depending on the trim level and an optional JBL premium audio system. Despite easy usability and clear graphics, the infotainment system lacked the flashiness and was simpler compared to rivals, with no head-up display in the gasoline model.

For the 2022 Ford Explorer, the Sync 3 infotainment system featured either an 8-inch or a larger, vertically oriented 10.1-inch touchscreen. Our King Ranch model included extensive Sync 3 technology like FordPass Connect services, 4G LTE WiFi, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium Bang and Olufsen sound system. However, voice command efficacy was limited, and a lack of the updated Sync 4 system was apparent. Features like digital instrumentation, wireless charging, and a surround-view camera underscored the Explorer’s technological advances over the RAV4.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 earned a Top Safety Pick rating from IIHS and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA, although it received mixed headlight ratings. Its standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite provided numerous safety features including forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and more. Additional safety options included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

All 2022 Ford Explorer variants were bestowed with a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS. Although NHTSA’s comprehensive crash-test ratings for 2022 weren't available, previous models earned five-star ratings. Ford's Co-Pilot360 technology suite comprised forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and more. The Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package further included adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assist, and evasive steering assist, enhancing the Explorer’s safety credentials.