2026 Honda CR-V Vs. Toyota RAV4 In-Depth Comparison

CR-V vs. RAV4 Specs & Power

Compare the Honda CR-V vs. Toyota RAV4, and you'll discover that these fierce competitors in the two-row SUV segment share some similarities but plenty of differences, and those start under the hood. The Honda CR-V lineup offers two powertrains to choose from: the gas model's 1.5-liter turbocharged engine or the electrified 2.0-liter four-cylinder in the CR-V Hybrid.

Output starts at 190 horsepower in the turbocharged CR-V and reaches 204 horsepower in the CR-V Hybrid. A CVT (continuously variable transmission) is paired with either front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) across the lineup.

With 179 pound-feet of torque in the gas version or 247 pound-feet of torque in the hybrid, the Honda CR-V lineup delivers a robust driving experience that SUV shoppers may find tops the Toyota RAV4, which only produces 170 pound-feet of torque from its motor. The RAV4 makes a healthy 226 horsepower with FWD or 236 horsepower in AWD configurations.

When looking at the 2026 Toyota RAV4 vs. Honda CR-V, you'll notice that the RAV4 is a hybrid-only SUV, whereas the CR-V gives you a choice of gas or electrified performance.

On the fuel mileage front, the turbocharged CR-V earns up to an EPA-estimated 28/33 MPG (City/Highway).¹ The CR-V Hybrid tops that figure with up to an EPA-estimated 43/36 MPG (City/Highway).²

The RAV4 ranges from an EPA-estimated 41/35 MPG (City/Highway)³ to up to 47/40 MPG (City/Highway),³ depending on the trim and drivetrain.

RAV4 vs. CR-V Interior & Exterior Dimensions

As you continue comparing the Toyota RAV4 vs. Honda CR-V, you'll quickly discover the numerous benefits that the latter provides, thanks to its spacious cabin.

The CR-V is longer and wider than the RAV4, and also rides on a longer wheelbase. These exterior dimensions translate to the inside, where the Honda SUV leads in key components, including total passenger volume, front and rear legroom and hip room, and cargo capacity behind the first and second rows.

With 106 cubic feet of passenger space and 39.3 cubic feet of area behind the back bench seating, the CR-V significantly outshines the smaller RAV4, which has just 98.9 cubic feet for occupants and 37.8 cubic feet behind its rear seating.

The difference in cargo-carrying capabilities becomes even more pronounced when you lower the second row, with the CR-V presenting 76.5 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume compared to 70.4 cubic feet in the RAV4.

Honda CR-V vs. Toyota RAV4 Tech & Comfort

We've already focused on the comfort benefits that come with the CR-V SUV's large interior, including its greater second-row legroom. But the advantages of this Honda sport-ute continue, thanks to its well-appointed lineup that boasts a wide array of upscale amenities even in its second equipment level, the EX. This configuration includes heated front seats, a one-touch power moonroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, Smart Entry with Walk Away Auto Lock, and a power-adjustable driver's seat, among many other standard features. Not all of those are found on the lower RAV4 trims.

Comparing cabin tech of the 2026 Honda CR-V vs. Toyota RAV4, you'll get the following available systems on each.

The Honda CR-V lineup offers:

• 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster
• Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
• Ambient interior lighting
• Humidity sensor
• Dynamic drive modes
• Active Noise Cancellation

Toyota RAV4 drivers can find:

• Smart Key System with push-button start
• Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
• Digital Key capability

CR-V vs. RAV4 Reliability & Safety Ratings

Regarding reliability and safety ratings, the current-generation CR-V has an established track record for high marks in both categories. It's Consumer Reports Recommended and is expected to be more reliable than the average new car⁴ based on the last few years of this model.

It also fares well in safety tests and comes loaded with the following Honda Sensing driver-assistance technologies:

• Collision Mitigation Braking System
• Road Departure Mitigation System
• Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow
• Lane Keeping Assist System
• Forward Collision Warning
• Lane Departure Warning
• Traffic Jam Assist
• Traffic Sign Recognition System
• Driver Attention Monitor

The RAV4 is all-new and hybrid-only for 2026, so Consumer Reports has not provided a reliability rating, as it's simply too new to tell how it will hold up over the coming years.

Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 on the 2026 RAV4 brings the following driver aids:

• Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
• Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
• Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
• Lane Tracing Assist
• Road Sign Assist
• Proactive Drive Assist
• Automatic High Beams

Which One Should You Choose: The Honda CR-V or the Toyota RAV4?

Pick the Toyota RAV4 if your main criteria involve maximizing horsepower and gas mileage.

Pick the Honda CR-V if you prioritize extra space, comfort, and capability. The CR-V is substantially more versatile when it comes to hauling cargo and affords your passengers more room to stretch their legs and enjoy the ride.

When you find yourself in Tilton, NH, or nearby, we invite you to visit Planet Honda to tour a new Honda CR-V for sale.

As your local SUV source, we're home to highly competitive Honda CR-V specials that you won't want to miss!