2025 Toyota RAV4 vs. Honda CR-V: Ultimate SUV Showdown

The 2025 Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V continue their fierce rivalry in the compact SUV segment, with both vehicles receiving significant updates for 2025. Both models feature advanced safety technology, comfortable interiors, and optional hybrid powertrains. The CR-V has earned high acclaim for its spacious interior and comfortable ride, while the RAV4 has received praise for its diverse trim options and strong resale value.

The starting MSRPs for the RAV4 and CR-V are $28,850 and $30,100 respectively. Depending on the trim, both SUVs can reach over $40,000. The Honda CR-V is tied for third on the U.S. News & World Report’s Best Compact SUVs list with an impressive 8.9/10 overall score, while the Toyota RAV4 places just behind with an 8.8/10 rating. Let’s dive in and compare the 2025 Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V.

Powertrain and Performance

The 2025 Honda CR-V features a 1.5-liter I-4 turbocharged engine that generates 190 hp and 179 lb-ft of torque. The 2025 Toyota RAV4 counters with a more powerful 2.5-liter I-4 engine producing 203 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. With the RAV4’s larger engine, you also get better acceleration. The CR-V achieves 0 to 60 mph in 8.7 seconds, while the RAV4 takes 8 seconds.

When it comes to the hybrid models, the RAV4 Hybrid gets a combined 219 hp, and the CR-V Hybrid delivers a total of 204 hp. Again, the RAV4 edges out the CR-V in performance. The RAV4 Hybrid achieves 0 to 60 mph in 7.3 seconds compared to the CR-V Hybrid’s 7.6 seconds.

You may also want to consider the towing capacities of the 2025 RAV4 and CR-V. The RAV4’s gas-powered models can tow up to 1,500 pounds, and the hybrid models can manage up to 1,750 pounds. For the highest towing capacity, you may like the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid, which can tow 2,500 pounds. The CR-V can tow up to 1,500 pounds, while the CR-V Hybrid can tow up to 1,000 pounds.

Both vehicles utilize advanced transmissions, with the RAV4 featuring an eight-speed automatic and the CR-V employing a continuously variable transmission. The CR-V’s suspension system provides excellent ride comfort and handling. However, if you need to do light off-roading, you may prefer the RAV4’s higher standard ground clearance, which is 8.4 inches compared to the CR-V’s 7.8 inches.

Fuel Economy and Environmental Impact

The gas-powered front-wheel-drive CR-V models achieve 28 mpg in the city, 34 mpg on the highway, and 30 mpg combined. With all-wheel-drive, CR-V trims return 26 mpg in the city, 31 mpg on the highway, and 28 mpg combined. In comparison, the gas-powered RAV4 delivers 27 mpg in the city, 35 mpg on the highway, and 30 mpg combined, and the all-wheel drive models maintain a similar, albeit slightly lower, efficiency depending on the trim.

When it comes to hybrids, the RAV4 Hybrid achieves 39 mpg combined across most versions, comparable to the CR-V Hybrid’s combined 40 mpg. The CR-V Hybrid with all-wheel drive returns 37 mpg combined. The RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid gets 38 mpg combined and an impressive 42-mile all-electric range.

User Experience: Comfort, Technology, and Safety

Both vehicles offer spacious interiors, with the Honda CR-V providing 106 cubic feet of passenger volume compared to the RAV4’s 98.9 cubic feet. The CR-V features more rear legroom with 41 inches of space, while the RAV4 offers 37.8 inches. With the rear seats folded, the CR-V has 76.5 cubic feet of cargo space compared to the RAV4’s 69.8 cubic feet.

Both models are equipped with modern infotainment systems, featuring smartphone integration and premium audio options. The CR-V offers a 7-inch touch screen as standard and a 9-inch touch screen on higher trims. The RAV4 features an 8-inch or 10.5-inch touch-screen display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities.

Both SUVs have comprehensive standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and active lane control, while blind-spot monitoring is optional. The RAV4 and CR-V also demonstrate strong safety ratings and performed well during most Insurance Institute for Highway Safety tests, with the CR-V awarded a Top Safety Pick. The RAV4 achieved a U.S. News & World Report safety score of 8.8/10, highlighting its strong safety credentials.

Making the Right Choice: RAV4 or CR-V?

The 2025 Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V each present compelling advantages. Both vehicles deliver excellent fuel economy, particularly in their hybrid variants, making them practical choices for daily commuting and family use. However, you may prefer the RAV4 if you need a more powerful engine, drive off-road, or would like more trim options. We invite you to experience the RAV4’s capabilities at Classic Toyota of Tyler. Contact us to schedule a test-drive of the trim that best suits your needs. We also have specials on new cars, so be on the lookout for a deal on your new Toyota.