The compact SUV class remains one of the tightest, and two of the biggest, most prominent names belong to the 2024 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid XLE Premium and the 2024 Honda CR-V. For quite some time, both these models have been credited with good mileage, reliability, and updated features. However, they take a somewhat different approach to what that contemporary SUV should be. Here, we go straight into a relatively detailed comparison, from performance through to safety, to help you decipher which of the two will work best in your lifestyle.
Performance
| Aspect | 2024 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid XLE Premium | 2024 Honda CR-V |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L 4-cylinder + Hybrid Motor | 1.5L Turbocharged I4 |
| Horsepower | 219 hp (combined) | 190 hp |
| Torque | 163 lb-ft | 179 lb-ft |
| Transmission | CVT | CVT |
| Fuel Efficiency | 41 city / 38 highway | 28 city / 34 highway (Gas) / 40 city / 34 highway (Hybrid) |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive (AWD) | Front-Wheel Drive (AWD optional) |
In performance, the 2024 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid XLE Premium and Honda CR-V yield strong yet efficient engines, though their apparent priorities of focus do lie in different places. While the RAV4 Hybrid has placed its main priority on a balance of power and fuel efficiency, the Honda CR-V places a heavy reliance on traditional gasoline performance with available hybrid options.
But the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid storms away with its 2.5L, making 219 horses in concert with its electric motor. The Honda CR-V is comparatively tame; its 1.5L turbo delivering 190 hp cannot keep pace with the raw power output of the RAV4. However, the hybrid version of the latter brings it closer in terms of efficiency.
Winner: Toyota RAV4 Hybrid XLE Premium
Still, the RAV4 Hybrid edges out because such a significantly more powerful engine and higher fuel economy arguably matter to those most into hybrids.
Handling and Driving Experience
| Aspect | 2024 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid XLE Premium | 2024 Honda CR-V |
|---|---|---|
| Steering Feel | Light and smooth | Precise and responsive |
| Ride Quality | Balanced between comfort and control | Sporty and firm |
| Suspension | Independent MacPherson strut | Multi-link rear |
| Drive Modes | Eco, Normal, Sport | Standard |
| AWD Capability | Standard | Optional |
The selection of SUVs matters to most drivers, often related to how well they handle and drive, either for daily driving or during weekend time on an adventure. The RAV4 Hybrid XLE Premium and the Honda CR-V will be different in this respect.
The RAV4 Hybrid stands tall on a well-rounded ride and handling balance, thanks to its soft suspension for comfort and light off-roading. It is standard with an all-wheel-drive system, therefore giving you more flexibility on multiple weather conditions. Conversely, the Honda CR-V strikes a sportier note. Its steering is accurate in its responses, and it’s more fun to drive, particularly on twisty roads.
Winner: Tie
Where the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid delivers a more comfortable and versatile ride, the Honda CR-V is more engaging if you enjoy driving a little sportier.
Interior: Comfort and Space
| Aspect | 2024 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid XLE Premium | 2024 Honda CR-V |
|---|---|---|
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Interior Design | Driver-focused, modern | Upscale, minimalist |
| Materials | Soft-touch, leatherette | Premium soft-touch |
| Cargo Space | 37.6 cu ft (max 69.8 cu ft) | 39.2 cu ft (max 76.5 cu ft) |
| Infotainment | 8-inch Touchscreen | 9-inch Touchscreen |
Interior comfort is one of the most important considerations when choosing an SUV. While both the 2024 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid XLE Premium and the 2024 Honda CR-V boast good interior quality, they do so while catering to different tastes.
As far as carrying cargo goes, the Honda CR-V takes an edge, barely enough to make it the model to go for when one is always carrying gear or groceries. The cabin of the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is well laid out, having plenty of soft-touch materials with a driver-focused layout. Both give spacious rear seating, but it is the CR-V, with its somewhat bigger cargo-carrying area, that hands it an advantage in practicality.
Winner: Honda CR-V
Technology and Features
| Aspect | 2024 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid XLE Premium | 2024 Honda CR-V |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment System | 8-inch Display | 9-inch Display |
| Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | Standard | Standard |
| Wireless Charging | Available | Available |
| Driver Assistance | Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ | Honda Sensing |
| Premium Audio | 11-speaker JBL | 12-speaker Bose |
The modern SUV has to have all the latest technological bells and whistles and neither the 2024 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid XLE Premium nor Honda CR-V disappoint in that respect.
It’s here that the Honda CR-V begins to pull ahead with its larger 9-inch display and more premium 12-speaker Bose sound system. Still, the technology package in the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is strong: wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and the full suite of Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ features, including a wide range of safety and driver assistance features.
Winner: Honda CR-V
Where the CR-V edges out the RAV4 for tech lovers is in its larger infotainment screen and a smidge more advanced audio setup. The CR-V is, therefore, more desirable even to those who may not be so into technology.
Price and Value
| Aspect | 2024 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid XLE Premium | 2024 Honda CR-V |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $36,885 | $33,350 |
| Top Trim Price | $40,000+ | $38,000+ |
| Resale Value | High | High |
| Warranty | 3 years/36,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
From a face-value perspective, both these models-the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid XLE Premium and the Honda CR-V-offer some of the most salient options in their respective lineups on the market today. Yet, because of their trim levels and features, their pricing does vary ever so slightly.
With this, the Honda CR-V starts at a slightly lower price, and such a model would be more attractive to budget – conscious buyers. In return, the RAV4 Hybrid justifies a higher price by better fuel economy and a good load of features that are standard, especially in the hybrid model.
Winner: Honda CR-V
For both SUVs, good value can be had. For now, the lower starting price of the CR-V makes it more approachable.
Conclusion: Who's the Winner?
It means that, at the end of it all, the time would come for a major showdown between the 2024 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid XLE Premium and the 2024 Honda CR-V-it would have depended on just what you value in an SUV. About the bottom line in performance, fuel economy, and AWD capability, the RAV4 Hybrid offered buyers more value in search of a versatile and efficient vehicle. But with its lower price of entry, roomier interior, and a slightly stronger tech features set, the Honda CR-V is the right choice for buyers whose top priorities are value and cargo space.
Winner: If performance, versatility, and hybrid efficiency were to be taken into consideration for the title, it would go to the 2024 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid XLE Premium. However, if tech features and better value are to be considered, the 2024 Honda CR-V is quite close.
