Crossover Comparison: 2017 Honda CR-V versus the 2017 RAV4

So, you’re looking at purchasing a compact SUV? Great choice! You’re also not alone. Compact sport utility vehicles or crossovers are currently the best-selling vehicle segment in the country. If you are looking at this type of vehicle, you’re probably also reviewing Honda’s CR-V and Toyota’s RAV4 models. Again, great choices. They are the two best sellers in the segment and for good reason. Both offer tremendous quality, value and reliability. The question becomes, however, what’s the better value between the two SUVs when compared side by side? Mossy Honda Lemon Grove has the answer to that question. Read on to see who wins the battle of the compact crossover kings.

2017 Honda CR-V vs 2017 Toyota RAV4: Exterior Comparison

When comparing exterior styles on any vehicles, beauty is often in the eye of the beholder. Having said that, tastes change quickly and what looked fresh and stylish even two years ago can appear outdated now. That’s the situation we faced when comparing exterior styles on the 2017 CR-V and 2017 RAV4.

Toyota’s RAV4 model last underwent a complete redesign in 2013 and it unfortunately shows. Honda, on the other hand, released an all-new CR-V for the 2017 model year. The CR-V’s appearance is more modern and actually comes across with rugged SUV-like styling. It’s also larger in size than the RAV4. That’s why we’re recommending the 2017 CR-V in the exterior comparison segment over the 2017 RAV4.

Honda CR-V

Toyota RAV4

2017 Honda CR-V vs 2017 Toyota RAV4: Interior Comparison

This segment comparison is a complete blowout in favor of the 2017 CR-V. Honda’s compact SUV offers more passenger and cargo volume than the 2017 RAV4. It’s also covered with high-quality materials from front to back. RAV4’s interior is cramped when compared side by side with CR-V, and the materials used inside aren’t at the same level of quality as the CR-V’s. In our opinion, once a redesigned RAV4 model is released for the 2019 model year, this segment comparison will be a lot more competitive.

Honda CR-V

Toyota RAV4

2017 Honda CR-V vs 2017 Toyota RAV4: Technology Comparison

This segment was a close call. In fact, it was too close to call. The 2017 Honda CR-V and the 2017 Toyota RAV4 have a great selection of standard and available technology options. Including lots of “tech toys” is almost a given for any vehicle to sell successfully these days, so this isn’t a surprise.

Both have touchscreen system, rearview camera, voice recognition software, hands-free calling capabilities and most of the other features you’d want and expect in a new vehicle. Toyota’s RAV4 model gets some points deducted for not offering Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ functions like the CR-V, but the lack of these features isn’t a deal breaker. We’re calling this segment a draw due to the fact that both compact SUVs offer plenty of technology for the money.

2017 Honda CR-V versus 2017 Toyota RAV4: Who Wins?

As noted above, the 2017 Honda CR-V comes out on top in two out of three of our comparison categories. That doesn’t take into account the fact that the CR-V also costs less than the RAV4 when comparing base models. It’s natural to understand then why we’re giving the nod to the 2017 Honda CR-V as the better overall value when compared to the 2017 Toyota RAV4. They are both great compact SUVs, but the CR-V just provides a better driving/ownership experience for the money than the RAV4. This might change when Toyota releases the all-new RAV4 for the 2019 model year, and we’ll be sure to revisit our comparison at that time.

2017 Honda CR-V Specials at Mossy Honda Lemon Grove

If you’re in the market for a CR-V, now’s a great time to take a test drive at Mossy Honda Lemon Grove. Our Honda dealership near San Diego has a great selection of new Honda models to choose from with special savings available if you act now. Shop our complete selection online or stop by our dealership located at 3615 Lemon Grove Ave., Lemon Grove, CA 91945.