Medium SUVs are big business in Australia, and keenly priced entry-level models like
these two are the perfect bait.
The Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V are veterans of the SUV world.
But in their cheapest base model offering, which one is the better buy?
The all-new 2019 Toyota RAV4 comes with new engines, new technology, and a fresh makeover.
The CR-V Vi was added to Honda’s line-up in 2018, stripping equipment levels and lowering
the entry price for potential CR-V buyers.
Both cars are front-wheel drive; the RAV4 squeezing more power from its four-cylinder
unit, at the same time delivering a more frugal drive and emitting less CO2.
The cheapest RAV4 is paired to a six-speed manual transmission, which may well be a deal
breaker for some people.
Mind you, the same could be said for a CVT.
If you pay an extra $2,000, you can get Toyota CVT in this GX.
It’s worth noting, though, the manual is a really nice shift, and the clutch feels
good underfoot.
Steering feel is good, and the RAV4 handles with ease.
This suspension setup feels like the perfect balance for rough suburban roads and sprawling
freeways.
The CR-V Vi is matched to a continuously variable transmission, and it powers along really nicely.
The only thing that lets the CR-V down a little bit is probably noise intrusion.
There’s a bit of tyre and road noise.
And then under hard acceleration, that engine noise does creep in a bit.
The RAV4 GX edges well ahead where safety is concerned.
You can read about all of that, but the one thing worth noting is that it has autonomous
emergency braking, which you won’t find in the Honda CR-V Vi, and you can’t option
it either.
While these two are dimensionally similar, they take a really different approach to cabin
design.
In the CR-V, it’s kind of a wrapped, intimate feel.
Whereas, in this RAV, it’s more open in area.
It feels a little more spacious in here.
What they both definitely have in common is generous storage solutions and practical layout.
Neither car screams winner where infotainment is concerned.
The Toyota screen is bigger.
The Honda’s is arguably easier to navigate.
The Toyota has satellite navigation via an app link.
Neither have Apple CarPlay or Android Auto yet.
It is coming to the Toyota.
Reversing cameras are common, as are front parking sensors.
The RAV4 adds rear sensors and digital radio.
Maybe it does take a narrow win.
There’s really not much to differentiate the second row in these cars.
Comfortable seats.
An armrest with two cup holders.
Two-directional air vents.
The RAV4 adds a 12V outlet, while the CR-V has a slightly raised seating position, which
is good for outward visibility, particularly for young kids.
What you need to know about their boots is that they’re big.
The Honda is a touch larger, but the RAV4 has a slightly lower load height.
60/40 split-fold seats are common to both, and in the CR-V, you can flip them from here.
Both vehicles offer similar warranties, service schedules, and associated costs.
It’s really hard to choose a winner here, where space, practicality, and ease of driving
are concerned.
These two will offend nobody.
But at the end of the day, a number of small things done just that little bit better and
the benefit of advance safety technology see the RAV4 our deserved winner.