2020 Honda CR-V vs 2020 Toyota RAV4 in Montreal

Buying a vehicle, whether it's a sedan, a sports coupe or an SUV, as in this case, is more often than not a matter of emotions, passion and guts. It can be very easy when you don't have a budget limit, but if like most people, you have a certain amount of money to stick to, it's best to put all the odds on your side. So, if you're hesitating between the 2020 Honda CR-V and the 2020 Toyota RAV4, this brief comparison should help you make a more informed choice.

RAV4 vs CR-V

Our two participants in this RAV4 vs. CR-V duel, both in the same category, that of compact sport utility vehicles, both receive a few modifications for this new vintage; they can both seat 5 passengers, can tow up to 680 kg and their starting price is almost similar at just over $30,000. That's basically what they have in common. Yet only one of them has been named Best Compact SUV for 2020, and it's the same one that saw its sales skyrocket to become "THE" best-selling SUV here in Canada, all categories combined. It is, of course, the Toyota SUV.

The advantages

What does the Toyota RAV4 offer you that the 2020 CR-V doesn't? Among other things, there are turn signals integrated into the outside mirrors, 2 more speakers in their respective entry-level versions, blind spot monitoring, a more powerful engine, a larger fuel tank, and a larger size, which boils down to more room for passengers. Did I mention reliability?

A wide range of choices

For those who like an elaborate menu, they'll be spoiled with the 2020 RAV4, which offers no less than 10 models, including 4 hybrid ones. The Honda CR-V offers 6 trims, but no hybrids. According to the expertise of the Car Guide's journalists, it's in terms of reliability, driving pleasure and general appreciation that the RAV4 performs better than its competitor. Of course, nothing beats a test drive to find out for sure, so be aware that your Spinelli Toyota Lachine dealer in the west end of Montreal, between the South Shore and Laval, will be happy to let you try one of its models.

The Engines

Since Honda doesn't offer a hybrid variant, let's focus on the gas versions. Under the hood of the RAV4 is a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder engine developing 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, and depending on your version, you'll get front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The CR-V offers a 1.5-litre, turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque, mated to a CVT gearbox. All-wheel drive is available on the LX variant and comes standard on the Sport, EX-L, Touring and Black Edition models.

Although the RAV4's engine is more powerful, the combined fuel consumption ratings of our rivals are almost the same: 7.7 L/100 km for the CR-V and 7.9 L/100 km for the RAV4. Cargo capacities are also virtually the same, with 1,100 litres for the CR-V and 1,059 litres for the RAV4.

Where it counts

The Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 technologies, the Star Safety System, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist and Road Edge Detection, Full Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, the Pre-Collision system with Pedestrian and Bicycle Detection, are just a few of the safety features of the RAV4. Another element in favour of RAV4 is without a doubt its selection of 15 colours, including 8 two-tone options. The CR-V offers only 7.

In short, if you're shopping in this class of vehicles and in this price range, these two options are certainly very interesting, however, the RAV4 is not the best by chance. But to be sure of your choice, come take a test drive and you'll quickly understand why so many people trust the 2020 Toyota RAV4, a versatile, elegant and safe utility vehicle, and so pleasant to drive.