2021 Honda HR-V vs Toyota RAV4

The 2021 models of the Honda HR-V and Toyota RAV4 are finally here, sparking a thrilling showdown between two automotive giants. To make sure they come out victors in this competition, both manufacturers have equipped their vehicles with top-notch safety features and exemplary fuel economy - meaning drivers can rest assured that whichever one they choose will deliver an unparalleled driving experience!

With the SUV market continuing to grow, prospective car buyers have a lot on their minds when choosing between vehicles. The Honda HR-V and Toyota RAV4 are two of 2021's top contenders, offering drivers the capability they crave plus alluring features like size and convenience options as well as an array of cutting edge tech.

The Powertrain

The Honda HR-V features a 1.8L four-cylinder engine, delivering 141hp and 127 lb.-ft of torque that's perfect for everyday city driving; no gladiator needed here. Whether it be travelling to the grocery store or taking off on weekend adventures, this SUV is prepared to tackle unexpected roads with poise!

Take your Honda HR-V driving experience to the next level with an available all-wheel drive system. The continuously variable transmission and Sport mode offer added excitement, while paddle shifters give you manual control right at your fingertips - perfect for slippery conditions when ultimate traction is needed.

With the Toyota RAV4, enjoy an unbeatable driving experience with its superior 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. For added control, switch between three distinct modes - Sport for a thrilling ride or Eco to maximize efficiency; plus you can activate Sequential shift mode at any time to give your drive even more edge!
The hybrid powertrain of a RAV4 offers significant performance benefits over the traditional. It boasts an impressive net horsepower of 219 and comes with advanced features like electronically controlled continuously variable transmission and sequential shift mode, as well as electronic on-demand all-wheel drive - something not included in its non-hybrid counterpart. A powerful combination that showcases how two quality components can unite to bring out truly remarkable capability for drivers everywhere!

The Toyota RAV4 gives drivers the most advanced level of performance, providing a thrilling and dependable ride with its sophisticated AWD systems. Experience heightened control on varying surfaces courtesy of Dynamic Torque Vectoring--the ultimate in SUV capability. Moreover, select non-hybrid models come with standard all wheel drive capability to tackle any terrain whether taking on mud, sand or rock covered pathways; while snow mode gives drivers extra traction in wintry conditions. With robust construction and unique features like Multi Terrain Select dials for every condition under the sun – there's no limit when it comes to exploring off roads!

The RAV4 effortlessly outperforms the HR-V when it comes to towing, with a maximum capacity of 1,500 or even 1,750 pounds (depending on powertrain). On the other hand however, due to its smaller frame size and lower engine output - professionals recommend against using an HR-V for any major hauling. Some estimates speculate that this car could possibly tow as much as one thousand pounds but should only be considered in extreme cases.

The RAV4 provides unparalleled fuel economy, offering impressive 41 MPG for city driving and 38 MPG on highways via its hybrid option. Meanwhile, the Honda HR-V is no slouch either; notching 28 miles per gallon in city conditions and 34 highway miles per gallon while coming close to matching the RAV4 with an Eco Assist function that can be engaged as needed.

Drivability

It's great that both SUVs have Hill Start Assist. With this program, pressure on the brakes can be maintained while the driver switches from the brake to the gas pedal. It can be used to prevent the vehicle from rolling backwards after being stopped on a hill, facing upwards.

The Honda HR-V has a great advantage with its Active Noise Cancellation, providing complete tranquility within the cabin. Meanwhile, Toyota made sure that each of their RAV4 models had improved handling thanks to its revolutionary Active Cornering Assist - proving sometimes it's all in the minor details when looking for potential buyers!

The RAV4 offers a more athletic experience with sport-tuned suspensions available on several trims and the option for all-wheel drive, creating an ideal vehicle if you're looking to tackle rough terrain. For those seeking something smaller in size yet still reliable enough to take along any adventure, consider the HR-V; at 170.4 inches long it has great maneuverability while providing adequate ground clearance varying between 6.7" and 7.3", depending whether front or all-wheel drive is chosen as your form of propulsion.

The RAV4 is more than ten inches longer than the HR-V is. It's wider and slightly taller as well. Plus, it has a ground clearance of 8.4 inches, so it feels even bigger.

The RAV4 is designed with a spacious interior, providing ample legroom in the front row (41 inches) and second row (37.8). The rear cargo area features an impressive volume of 37.6 cubic feet that can be further expanded to 70 cubic ft when you fold down the back seats - giving you plenty room for storage!

When considering the vast differences between compact SUVs, cargo capacity and interior space must be taken into account. The HR-V provides an impressive 24.3 cubic feet of storage with its rear seats in place; however this is notably lower than what can be found on vehicles such as RAV4s. Nevertheless, potential buyers will appreciate the generous amount of legroom (39.3" for second row passengers & 41.2 inches up front).

Many people shopping for new SUVs are going to be interested in their technology packages. In the Toyota RAV4, there could either be a seven- or eight-inch touchscreen. Either way, there would be Bluetooth, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa, and SiriusXM. Making the infotainment system even better are the five available USB ports and available navigation. On lower trims, there are six speakers, and on higher trims, there could be 11 JBL speakers to enhance the audio quality.

Four speakers, Bluetooth, and a five-inch LCD screen are found in lowest trim of the Honda HR-V. Some people might be okay with not having smartphone connectivity, but many modern consumers will definitely be looking for something more. If that's the case, then any of the remaining trims would meet those expectations. They have seven-inch touchscreens with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, HondaLink, and Pandora compatibility. The top two trims have SiriusXM and HD Radio, along with six-speaker sound systems.

Safety

Honda offers a suite of driver-assist features, known as Honda Sensing. These include adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning and mitigation braking to help prevent frontal collisions, as well as lane keeping assistance for extra protection in busy traffic or on winding roads. Toyota thrives off their own safety package -Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 – which comes equipped with Automatic High Beams plus a unique Blind Spot Monitoring system called LaneWatch available exclusively at the top two trim levels within the HR-V series from Honda; offering increased peace of mind when driving your vehicle back home every evening.

The RAV4 is equipped with cutting-edge driver assistance technologies, from pedestrian detection and road sign alerts to blind spot monitoring for a safer driving experience. For those who require extra reassurance behind the wheel, higher trims offer 360° camera views plus parking assist complete with automatic braking.

Which Has the Best Value?

Prospective SUV buyers may find the Honda HR-V to be an attractive choice, particularly with its competitive starting price of $21,220. This is a considerable difference when compared to the RAV4's LE model which has an MSRP of $26,250 - representing over 5 grand in savings for those on a budget. Of course capability and size as well as available technology should also factor into any decision between these two popular SUVs.

The Honda HR-V comes in four trim levels, each offering an array of desirable features. The Sport edition boasts a touchscreen display and smartphone connectivity; the EX has driver assistance systems built in as standard equipment; while the EX-L adds luxe touches like heated seats, sumptuous leather upholstery, automatic dimming mirrors and stylishly appointed shift knobs & wheels.

With 11 different trims in the RAV4 family, there is something for everyone. Potential owners should be aware that hybrid versions of these trims may cost up to $2,500 more than their non-hybrid counterparts - but they can often provide better fuel economy and other benefits too. Those who want a special style on their vehicle also have options with unique models like Adventure, TRD Off-Road and XSE Hybrid available as well. The top two most expensive picks are the Limited ($34,780) and its accompanying Hybrid version at $37 330 – markedly higher than some comparable vehicles such as Honda's HR-V EXL model ($25 680).

Is it worth it? Well, the Limited Hybrid has a height-adjustable power liftgate, available rain-sensing wipers, navigation and a high-quality sound system, a 360-degree camera, ambient lighting, and a digital rearview mirror. It can have heated and ventilated front seats, though the standard set-up would be to have heating elements only. Also available is a heated steering wheel.

Interestingly, the RAV4 doesn't come with leather seats. Besides fabric, the only other upholstery choice is SofTex, which is a synthetic leather. Leather seats are found in the top trim of the HR-V.

Which is Better?

The Toyota RAV4 and HR-V can cater to the varying needs of modern customers. Those who desire a formidable engine and interior space are sure to be drawn towards the muscular power of the RAV4, while budget seekers seeking something more compact with plenty of room will likely find solace in Honda's affordable HR-V. With optional all wheel drive, abundant second row seating as well as cutting edge technology components - this edgy vehicle is set for success despite its accessible price point!

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 continues its tradition of delivering an unbeatable combination of reliability, ruggedness and customizability. The powerful engine, spacious cargo area along with advanced safety features make it the perfect SUV for any driver's individual lifestyle needs. This impressive vehicle ensures comfort and dependability every time you get behind the wheel!