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Compact SUVs are immensely popular with couples and small families. They offer enough space for all their passenger and cargo needs. As a result, every passenger car manufacturer in the United States provides at least one in their model line-up. How can you choose the best compact SUV, with options like the 2023 Toyota RAV4 and the 2023 Honda CR-V on offer?
The 2023 RAV4 is based on the fifth generation, introduced in 2018 and facelifted in 2021. The facelift included a Woodland off-road edition as well. The 2023 CR-V is an all-new sixth-generation model that presents a formidable challenge to Toyota's long-running model.
Let's see which one is ahead in this 2023 RAV4 vs. CR-V comparison. We'll look at their respective interior, performance, and safety offerings and make our choice. And if you want to know more about the new RAV4, schedule a visit to Limbaugh Toyota in Birmingham, AL.
The 2023 RAV4 and the 2023 CR-V come with cabins that accommodate up to five adults. While the 2023 RAV4 offers slightly less passenger space than the 2023 CR-V, the difference is negligible. Conversely, the 2023 RAV4 offers a larger 37 cubic-foot trunk and a better-shaped load space. The rear seats can be nearly folded flat, further enhancing cargo-carrying capabilities.
Tech toys include climate control with dual-zone options on higher trims, premium finishes and seat coverings, and power front seats in their respective options lists. In the 2023 RAV4's list, buyers will particularly like the JBL premium sound system, power sunroof, and ambient lighting.
As you’d expect, the 2023 RAV4 and 2023 CR-V feature Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatible infotainment systems across the range. Wired, as well as wireless connections, are offered. The 2023 RAV4 also offers larger screen options, with the base screen being an 8-inch unit and a 10.5-inch upgrade on higher trims. The 2023 CR-V starts at 7 inches and goes up to 9 inches.
Three engines are on offer for the 2023 RAV4. The base engine is a punchy 2.5-liter 4-cylinder unit with 204 horsepower. It’s got an eight-speed automatic transmission sending power to the front wheels as standard, and an all-wheel-drive system is optional.
If you're concerned with fuel economy, the RAV4 Hybrid is an excellent choice. It's got the same 2.5-liter 4-cylinder, but it runs on an Atkinson cycle for greater efficiency. Two electric motors bolster its output, and the system is rated at 219 horsepower. A CVT transmission sends power to all four wheels. The EPA rates the 2023 RAV4 hybrid as being able to run for up to 42 miles on its 18.1-kilowatt-hour battery.
For performance seekers, the RAV4 Prime is a plug-in hybrid with the same engine and transmission as the RAV4 Hybrid. However, a beefier electric motor results in a system total of 302 horsepower. The RAV4 Prime can run from zero to 60 in less than six seconds.
There are only two engine choices on the 2023 CR-V, and neither can match the sheer performance cachet of the 2023 RAV4. The base engine is a turbocharged 1.5-liter 4-cylinder with 190 horsepower. Then, there's a hybrid variant with a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder plus two electric motors for a system total of 204 horsepower. A CVT gearbox sends power to the front wheels or all four wheels, depending on specification and trim. There's nothing more powerful available.
The 2023 RAV4 and 2023 CR-V are well equipped across all trim levels in terms of safety kit. Both vehicles have adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and forward collision with automated emergency braking, eight airbags, stability control, child safety locks, and daytime running lamps as standard features. The 2023 RAV4 also adds pedestrian detection to its automated emergency braking system.
Even though the 2023 CR-V is an all-new generation, the 2023 RAV4 is still ahead in the compact SUV category. It offers more interior features and tech and a range of great powertrains and is even inches ahead in safety features. It’s time to come by Limbaugh Toyota in Birmingham, AL, and test drive the new RAV4.
