2024 Toyota RAV4 vs 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport was characterized by its modernist and reductive design, which translated to a clean and simple aesthetic. This approach might not have appealed to those seeking a flashy luxury SUV, as the factory options for making the Range Rover Sport stand out were limited to a few bold paint colors and large wheels. The test vehicle, finished in Eiger Gray with silver 23-inch wheels and a Black Exterior Pack, exuded understated luxury. Inside, the Deep Garnet over Ebony theme, complemented by aluminum and shiny black trim, created a high-tech and luxurious atmosphere. The Range Rover Sport was available in SE P360, SE Dynamic P400, and Autobiography P440e specifications, with the SE Dynamic P400 test vehicle priced at $98,420, including destination charges. Notable design features included premium LED headlights, flush-mounted door handles, and surface LED technology taillights, contributing to its excellent aerodynamics.

In contrast, the 2024 Toyota RAV4 aimed to project a tougher image than its capabilities suggested. Its design featured aggressive angularity, dual exhaust outlets, and fake skid plates, with the TRD Off-Road model sporting a more rugged look. The test vehicle, priced at $41,925 with options, came in Army Green and included a digital rearview mirror and advanced technology packages. The RAV4's interior focused on practicality and utility, with SofTex artificial leather upholstery and an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat. The cabin was designed for comfort and functionality, with ample storage options and easy-to-clean surfaces. The RAV4 offered a spacious cargo area, with 37.6 cubic feet of space expanding to 69.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport was designed to balance refinement and driver-focused engagement, though it excelled more in the former. It featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, producing 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque in the SE Dynamic model. The SUV could accelerate to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds and tow up to 7,716 pounds. The Range Rover Sport offered a plug-in hybrid option with 434 horsepower and a 51-mile electric range. Despite its off-road prowess, the Range Rover Sport's on-road performance was less impressive compared to sport-tuned rivals, with noticeable body roll and steering that lacked involvement. Off-road, it excelled with features like Terrain Response and a wading depth of 35.4 inches.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The TRD Off-Road model featured standard all-wheel drive, off-road suspension tuning, and all-terrain tires. It offered Multi-Terrain Select driving modes but did not improve approach or departure angles. The RAV4's off-road suspension provided a comfortable ride on daily commutes, and the eight-speed automatic transmission contributed to its dependability. The RAV4 TRD Off-Road model achieved an EPA rating of 28 mpg in combined driving, with the test vehicle averaging 26.6 mpg. While the RAV4's engine was powerful for its class, it was loud and unrefined, but the vehicle's overall performance was reliable and efficient.

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport maintained its Command Driving Position, offering a tall and airy feel. The air suspension could kneel for easier entry and exit, and the front seats were comfortable with 20-way power adjustments and heating and ventilation options. The rear seat, however, was less accommodating, with limited legroom and a reclined seatback angle. The cargo area offered 31.9 cubic feet of space, expandable to 53 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Storage options included a deep bin under the center armrest and a handy contraption to prevent items from rolling around in the cargo hold.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 prioritized practicality and utility, with a focus on recreational activity. The TRD Off-Road trim featured SofTex upholstery and an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat. The interior offered ample storage options and oversized rubberized control knobs. The RAV4 could comfortably seat four adults, with good legroom and footroom in the rear. The cargo area provided 37.6 cubic feet of space, expanding to 69.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, making it competitive in its segment.

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport featured a 13.7-inch digital instrumentation display and a 13.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with haptic feedback. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and SiriusXM satellite radio. However, the Pivi Pro infotainment system was often confusing and frustrating to use, with difficulties in accessing features and understanding voice commands. The Range Rover Sport offered impressive Meridian audio systems and a wireless smartphone charging pad, though the latter was difficult to access.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with the Toyota Audio Multimedia system, featuring an 8-inch or available 10.5-inch touchscreen display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. It offered five connected services plans, including Service Connect and Safety Connect for ten years. The Drive Connect plan added cloud-based navigation and a digital voice assistant, which performed well except for a few issues. The RAV4 also offered a JBL premium audio system and a digital rear-view mirror, enhancing its technology offerings.

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport came with a range of advanced driving assistance systems, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. It also featured a surround-view camera system and Remote Park Assist. However, the adaptive cruise control and steering assist systems were not as smooth or reliable as expected, particularly on curvy roads.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 included Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance systems. However, the base LE trim lacked blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist systems performed adequately on straighter highways but struggled on curvy roads. The RAV4 lost its Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS due to lower ratings in recent crash tests, highlighting the need for an updated design.