The 2018 Honda CR-V and 2018 Toyota RAV4 both have their perks, but the CR-V is the one you’ll want to drive around Roseville in. Yes, the Toyota RAV4 has ten trim options compared to the CR-V model’s four, but the CR-V still finds ways to win. Delve deeper into the ups and downs of each of these SUVs below.
Both the CR-V and RAV4 earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award*. Besides obvious safety features like airbags, seat belts, and a rigid body, some vehicles host more advanced features in order to decrease the likelihood of an accident. The CR-V EX trim and above come with Honda Sensing Suite. Then the Toyota RAV4 comes with its version of driver-assist technology, Toyota Safety Sense-P. Honda Sensing is more comprehensive than Toyota Safety Sense-P, since it has standard Blind Spot Monitoring with a Cross Traffic Monitor and Road Departure Mitigation System. Those features either aren’t available on the 2018 Toyota RAV4, or come at an added cost.
We commend the Toyota RAV4 for having a hybrid option, but the Honda CR-V made sure to offer high fuel economy numbers on all its regular trims. The Honda CR-V LX gets 32 mpg highway**, while the base Toyota RAV4 LE only provides 30 mpg highway. The difference deepens as you graduate trims. The CR-V EX gets 34 mpg highway**, compared to the RAV4 XLE model’s 30 mpg highway. So, if you care about saving on gas money but don’t quite want to go the hybrid route, it’s best to choose the 2018 CR-V.
You probably need some extra space and convenience features since you want an SUV. The CR-V has slightly more cargo volume, 75.8 cubic feet, with the seats folded down. The RAV4 only opens up to 73.4 cubic feet. Outside of dimensions, the CR-V also makes your Grosse Pointe commute more comfortable with any trim. Automatic climate control is standard on the CR-V LX, but not on the RAV4 LE. Both SUVs have better seating material and adjustment varieties on higher trims too.
Doubtless, the 2018 Toyota RAV4 is a strong competitor, but it falls short in key areas. So, opt for a 2018 Honda CR-V. Continue your research with our 2018 Honda CR-V vs. Honda Pilot comparison.
*Reference: http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/vehicle/v/honda/cr-v-4-door-suv/2018.
**Based on 2018 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions and other factors.
