Honda CR-V vs Toyota RAV4: find the best used compact suv

The Honda CRV and Toyota RAV4 are two must-have compact SUVs on the used car market. This article offers a comprehensive comparison to help you identify the model that best suits your driving style, priorities and budget. Pay the right price for the vehicle that's right for you, thanks to the expertise of Automobile En Direct.

Should you choose a CR-V or a RAV4 for a wise purchase?

The Toyota RAV4 offers more hybrid versions and better resale value. The Honda CR-V stands out for its comfort, space and smooth ride.

Choosing between a CR-V or a RAV4 depends on your priorities: the RAV4 is often preferred for its reliability and hybrid performance, ideal for long-term fuel economy. The CR-V, on the other hand, appeals to drivers looking for a spacious, comfortable, reliable SUV that's often a little more affordable for equivalent mileage. 

Both models have a strong presence on the Quebec used car market, making it easy to compare prices, engines and available versions. Whether for urban, family or long-distance winter use, each of these SUVs has solid arguments to make, and that's what we're going to compare in detail in this guide.

Performance head-to-head: engine, handling and fuel consumption

CR-V or RAV4: which of these SUVs offers the best driving experience and the most efficient fuel consumption for everyday use or long journeys?

Driving pleasure: comfort vs. dynamism

The Honda CR-V is renowned for its comfortable ride, well-calibrated insulation and smooth steering, making it an excellent choice for families or long journeys. It absorbs road imperfections well and offers a serene ride, especially on freeways.

The Toyota RAV4, on the other hand, is firmer and more responsive, with more direct steering and stiffer suspension. This gives it a more dynamic character, especially in curves and urban driving, even if it comes at the price of slightly lower comfort on rough roads.

In the end, the CR-V favors smoothness and comfort, while the RAV4 focuses on agility and precision. The choice will therefore depend on your driving preferences: zen and fluid or more engaged and nervous.

Fuel consumption: gas vs. hybrid

When it comes to fuel consumption, the differences between the CR-V and RAV4 become significant when the hybrid versions are compared.

On the gasoline side, the Honda CR-V averages a combined fuel consumption of around 7.7 L/100 km, depending on model year and version. The Toyota RAV4 is slightly more economical, at around 7.1 L/100 km combined. The difference is modest, but significant for long-distance drivers.

Where the RAV4 really takes the lead is on the hybrid side. The RAV4 hybrid consumes an average of 5.8 L/100 km, with all-wheel drive as standard, making it one of the most efficient compact SUVs on the market. The CR-V hybrid, rarer on the Quebec market, offers similar fuel consumption (around 6.0 L/100 km), but is only available from certain recent vintages, and often at a higher used-car price.

If consumption is your priority, the RAV4 hybrid offers the best compromise between fuel economy, availability and everyday performance, especially in urban or mixed driving.

Long-distance driving

For long distances, road escapades or even light towing, the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 each boast solid but different strengths.

The CR-V is an SUV that shines on road trips, with predictable handling, even when fully loaded, and generous space for both passengers and luggage. The gasoline model can tow up to 680 kg, enough for a small trailer or light tent-trailer.

The RAV4, on the other hand, offers a slightly firmer driving feel, but is also more dynamic at high speeds. The AWD versions of the RAV4 hybrid are also very stable on the freeway, even in winter. It's also a little more efficient when it comes to towing, with a capacity of 907 kg on petrol versions.

For regular, long-distance use, the CR-V focuses on comfort, while the RAV4 offers greater versatility with improved towing capacity.

Interior spaciousness and on-board technology

The CR-V and RAV4 are compact SUVs that both offer an excellent compromise between comfort, modularity and on-board technology for families, commuters or weekend adventurers. Thanks to their comprehensive equipment, both models easily meet the expectations of buyers looking for a versatile SUV.

Trunk space, habitability, modularity

The Honda CR-V is one of the most generous SUVs in its class. Its trunk boasts 1,110 liters behind the bench seat, and up to 2,146 liters with the seats folded down, offering more cargo volume than the RAV4. Rear legroom is also very appreciable, especially for adult passengers.

The Toyota RAV4, on the other hand, offers 1,059 liters of trunk space with the seats up, and up to 1,977 liters with the seats down. Less spacious than the CR-V, but better compartmentalized, it remains highly functional thanks to its adjustable floor, tie-down hooks and practical storage compartments.

Multimedia systems and driving aids

The Honda CR-V offers an intuitive multimedia system with a 7- to 9-inch touchscreen, compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto from 2017 (wired version). On more recent versions (from 2023) wireless connectivity is available on top-of-the-range finishes. The CR-V also features a digital instrument panel and the Honda Sensing suite, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning and autonomous emergency braking.

The Toyota RAV4, meanwhile, boasts screens ranging from 8 to 10.5 inches depending on version. Apple CarPlay has been available since 2019, while Android Auto has been integrated from 2020, making the system fully compatible with all smartphones. The Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite, standard on recent models, includes advanced aids such as lane centering, pedestrian and cyclist detection, as well as a proactive urban driving assistance system.

Reliability and longevity: which compact SUV lasts longer?

Feedback and rankings

According to J.D. Power's 2024 rankings, the Toyota RAV4 stands o ut for its reliability, ranking among the top three models in its segment in the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS). The Honda CR-V, on the other hand, does not rank in the top three in either this study or the 2023 Initial Quality Study (IQS).

Consumer Reports corroborates these results by placing the RAV4 at the top of its reliability rankings for compact SUVs, ahead of the CR-V. The RAV4 is renowned for its mechanical robustness and longevity, particularly in its hybrid versions.

Maintenance costs and long-term use value

In terms of maintenance costs, both models perform similarly. According to an analysis by Annuel de l'automobile, Honda has slightly l ower maintenance costs in the first three months after purchase, while Toyota takes the lead after one year, with a difference of around $50 per year. 

CR-V hybrid vs RAV4 hybrid: what are the electrified versions worth ?

Hybrid versions of the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 are increasingly sought-after for their fuel efficiency, low running costs and eligibility for government incentives. But how do they really compare in terms of range, winter performance and availability on the Quebec used car market?

The RAV4 hybrid is available in a classic version and a rechargeable Prime version, which stands out for its ability to run in 100% electric mode for several dozen kilometers. The CR-V hybrid, on the other hand, does not. This difference may influence your choice, depending on whether or not you have access to a charging station at home or at work.

The RAV4 Prime is also eligible for the Quebec government's Roulez Vert program, which can provide financial assistance of up to $5,000 towards the purchase of an eligible pre-owned model. The non-rechargeable CR-V hybrid is not eligible for this subsidy.

Wondering how to buy a used electric vehicle in Quebec? Our complete article explains the Roulez V  ert program.

Verdict: which SUV to choose between the CR-V and RAV4?

Why choose a Toyota RAV4?

The Toyota RAV4 is the ideal choice if you're looking for a reliable, versatile and well-equipped compact SUV. It stands out for its highly accomplished hybrid range. The RAV4 Hybrid AWD or RAV4 Prime versions are perfect options for those who want a vehicle that's fuel-efficient, performs well in winter and is eligible for Go Green grants. 

See our selection of used Toyota RAV4 available at Automobile En Direct.

Why choose a Honda CR-V?

The Honda CR-V seduces with its superior roominess, exceptional road comfort and smooth driving pleasure. It's perfect for long-distance drivers and families looking for a spacious, quiet and functional vehicle, with a more generous trunk than the RAV4. Cheaper to buy on the used market for equivalent mileage, the CR-V remains a smart, long-lasting investment for everyday or on-road use.

Discover all our used Honda CR-V available at Automobile En Direct.

Finally, is an SUV too big for you? Would you prefer something more compact, closer to the ground and more classic? Check out our Civic or Corolla comparison to find the right sedan for you.