Toyota RAV4 vs Buick Envision

The 2021 Buick Envision underwent a significant redesign, presenting a more premium crossover styling that was lower and wider than its predecessor. This two-row compact crossover, positioned between the smaller Encore GX and the larger Enclave, showcased a sculpted look that was more refined than its cousin, the Cadillac XT4, yet not as sleek as the Acura RDX. The Envision offered three trim levels—Preferred, Essence, and Avenir—with the Avenir trim making its debut, featuring upgraded exterior elements like a Black Ice Chrome mesh grille and 20-inch Avenir-specific wheels. Inside, the Avenir boasted leather-appointed seating and a head-up display, while all Envisions came with LED lighting and a driver-centric cabin design. However, the use of piano black plastic in the interior was prone to gathering dust.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota RAV4, a continuation of the 2019 redesign, maintained its position as a sales leader in the SUV market. The RAV4's exterior styling was characterized by angular wheel arches and crisp lines, creating a playful yet aggressive look with its expressive headlights and grille. The interior featured a layered dash with contrasting textures and a user-friendly center stack. The RAV4's design included a circuit-board-inspired pattern that tied the cabin together, from seat inserts to dash pieces. The Adventure-trim test vehicle came with 19-inch matte gray alloy wheels, adding to its distinctive appearance. Overall, the RAV4's design and fit-and-finish elevated its quality, making it a popular choice among crossover SUVs.

The 2021 Buick Envision featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Despite a reduction in power from the previous model, the Envision's weight loss of 200 to 300 pounds improved its fuel efficiency, achieving 24 mpg city and 31 mpg highway for FWD models. AWD versions were slightly less efficient. The Envision's drivability was comfortable but not particularly engaging, with noticeable engine and road noise. The Sport mode altered revs but did not significantly enhance performance.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered three powertrains, with the gasoline-only model using a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The RAV4 Hybrid combined a similar engine with an electric motor for 217 net horsepower, while the RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid delivered 302 horsepower with an electric-only range of 42 miles. The RAV4's fuel economy was impressive, with the gasoline model achieving up to 35 mpg highway, the Hybrid 40 mpg combined, and the Prime 94 MPGe. The RAV4's handling was car-like, with a four-wheel independent suspension and AWD models featuring Multi-Terrain Select and dynamic torque vectoring for improved performance.

The 2021 Buick Envision's redesign resulted in a cabin with less headroom, legroom, and shoulder room compared to its predecessor. Rear-seat passengers experienced reduced legroom and hip room, making the Envision less adult-friendly. Cargo space was also limited, with 25.2 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 53.7 cubic feet with the seats folded. The driver-centric cockpit restricted passenger access to controls, and forward visibility was challenging for shorter drivers. However, the Envision offered standard heated seats and a heated steering wheel for comfort.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 provided ample interior space, with 37.5 cubic feet of cargo capacity behind the second row and 69.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. The RAV4's payload capacity ranged from 1,050 to 1,230 pounds, and towing capabilities varied by model, with the Adventure and TRD Off-Road models towing up to 3,500 pounds. The RAV4's interior was roomy and comfortable for four adults, with plenty of storage options and cupholders. The front row offered generous legroom and headroom, while the second row could accommodate three passengers in a pinch.

The 2021 Buick Envision featured a standard 10.2-inch infotainment touchscreen, responsive to touch, and an available 8.0-inch driver information display. Standard tech included USB ports, dual-zone climate control, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Available features included navigation, a surround-view camera, and wireless charging. However, the passenger's access to the infotainment system was limited due to the driver-centric design.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, six-speaker audio, and compatibility with Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and Apple CarPlay. Higher trims offered a 9-inch touchscreen and an 11-speaker JBL audio system. The RAV4 Prime featured advanced tech, including five USB ports, a wireless charging pad, and a bird’s-eye view camera. The RAV4's tech offerings were comprehensive, with navigation becoming less essential due to smartphone integration.

The 2021 Buick Envision had not yet been rated by NHTSA or IIHS. It included standard safety features like forward-collision alert, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. The Buckle to Drive feature ensured seatbelt use before shifting from park. Adaptive cruise control and enhanced park assist were available on Avenir models, but the Envision lacked advanced driver-assist systems like GM's Super Cruise.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came with Toyota’s Star Safety System, including stability control, traction control, and anti-lock braking. Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 was standard, offering features like adaptive cruise control and lane-departure alert. Higher trims included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The RAV4 was an IIHS Top Safety Pick and received a five-star rating from NHTSA, highlighting its strong safety credentials.