Edmunds Comparison: Toyota RAV4 vs Honda CR-V Which SUV Is the Smarter Buy in 2025?
If you’re stuck choosing between the 2025 Toyota RAV4 and the Honda CR-V, Edmunds’ latest comparison makes the decision a lot clearer. Both SUVs are reliable, practical, and popular but one of them offers better value, stronger tech, and smarter long-term efficiency. Here’s the full breakdown buyers need before making their next SUV purchase.
Toyota RAV4
Man, the Toyota RAV4 for 2026 is like the overachiever that shows up standard with hybrid power up to 44 mpg combined, quicker 0-60 in 7.5 seconds, starts at $33,350 including fees. It’s got that rugged vibe, available plug-in for even better gas savings, and Edmunds says it’s easier to hit those mpg numbers in real driving. You know, more power than the CR-V’s 190 hp, solid cargo too, but rear legroom’s a tad tight at 37.8 inches I mean, great for efficiency nuts, but if you’re tall back there, uhm, maybe squeeze.
Honda CR-V
Honda CR-V, oh this one’s the comfy king with more rear legroom at 41 inches, quieter cabin, upscale feels inside, base at $32,370 which undercuts RAV4 a bit. Hybrid’s good at 40 mpg but only on pricier trims from $37k, and it’s sportier in corners without bumpy rides—Edmunds gives it points for confident handling. Not as quick, though, 8 seconds to 60, and no plug-in option, so yeah, perfect for family hauls but changes my mind, that hybrid delay hurts value.
Mazda CX-50
Mazda CX-50 sneaks in here ’cause it’s got that premium drive feel, turbo options for zip, around $35,000 start with hybrid coming in higher. Sharper handling than RAV4 or CR-V, upscale interior without luxury tax, solid 28-30 mpg non-hybrid. Honestly, it’s funner on twisties, less appliance-like, but cargo’s similar and AWD’s standard-ish—great rival if you crave sport over pure efficiency, you know?
Hyundai Tucson
Hyundai Tucson, loaded with tech and style for mid-$30,000s, hybrid hits 38 mpg, more cargo than CR-V sometimes. Bold looks, warranty’s killer at 10 years. Compared to RAV4? Similar power but flashier screens; beats CR-V on base price features. Not gonna lie, it’s tempting for value, though long-term reliability whispers make me pause—like, is it Toyota-tough yet?
Kia Sportage
Kia Sportage, Tucson’s sassier twin, $30k base, hybrid 38-43 mpg options, huge warranty too. Edgier design, roomy back like CR-V, peppy turbo. Stacks up great against RAV4’s hybrid standard but cheaper entry; more stylish than bland Honda. So yeah, if you want bling without broke, this one’s yelling pick me, honestly.
Subaru Forester
Subaru Forester, all-weather beast with standard AWD, eye-sight safety, around $30,000-$35,000. Boxy cargo champ, 29 mpg-ish. Tougher off mild trails than CR-V, reliable like Toyota but head gaskets in old ones linger in mind. Good for snowy retirees, but uhm, ride’s firmer—less plush than Honda’s sofa seats.
Nissan Rogue
Nissan Rogue, smooth CVT, Google built-in tech, $30k start, 30 mpg combined. More rear space like CR-V, comfy cruiser. Vs RAV4? Similar price but no standard hybrid; beats on quietness sometimes. I mean, underrated, but Rogue’s past rep makes me side-eye solid daily, not thrilling.
Volkswagen Tiguan
VW Tiguan, Euro flair with 40 inches rear legroom wow, $30k base, turbo zip. Handles nicer than RAV4, upscale vibes, but mpg lags at 27 combined. Compared to CR-V? Similar space win, pricier repairs though. Fun if you want German touch, but reliability? Meh, pass for worry-free.
Chevrolet Equinox
Chevy Equinox, budget play at $28k-ish, turbo 1.5L for 28 mpg, big screens now. More affordable than RAV4 base, roomy like CR-V. Not as efficient or refined, honestly feels American bulky. Good starter SUV, but changes my mind, Toyotas hold value better long haul.
Ford Bronco Sport
Ford Bronco Sport, adventure-lite for $30k, off-road modes, 28 mpg. Rugged over CR-V’s pavement focus, fun GOAT modes. Vs RAV4 hybrid? Guzzles more, but terrain king. Tiny joke it’s the weekend warrior RAV4 wishes it was, you know?
