In the competitive world of compact SUVs, the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V are both top contenders, boasting impressive sales figures. These two models are highly popular in the United States, serving as the best-selling models for their respective brands. As of now this year, the RAV4 ranks third in overall sales in America, while the CR-V holds the fourth spot. The top two spots are dominated by Americans’ favorite pickup trucks.
Since its redesign in 2023, the Honda CR-V has consistently topped the annual top ten list of “Car and Driver” magazine, being the publication’s most favored compact SUV, especially the hybrid version. Looking ahead to the 2026 model year, Toyota has finally given its RAV4 a significant overhaul, now in its sixth generation. This time around, the RAV4 is only available with a hybrid powertrain system, including a plug-in hybrid version.
Can the improvements made to the RAV4 close the gap with the reigning champion, the CR-V, in terms of accolades? The definitive answer will come from test-driving these two SUVs in person, but for now, we can compare their specifications on paper. It should be noted that Toyota has not released all the details for the 2026 RAV4, including interior dimensions, fuel economy, and pricing.
According to “Car and Driver,” here is a comparison of the 2026 Toyota RAV4 hybrid against the Honda CR-V hybrid based on the available information for the current RAV4 model. (To view the latest 2026 Toyota RAV4 hybrid video, click here.)
The redesigned RAV4 retains its bold exterior styling, with a more diverse front face. Toyota categorizes the models into three different styles: Core urban models, Rugged off-road models, and Sport performance-oriented models. The highlight of the Sport model is the all-new pure PHEV GR Sport model, which includes the familiar SE and XSE models.
The Core models include LE, XLE, and Limited trims.
The Rugged models feature the Woodland model, with enhanced off-road capabilities, standard all-wheel drive, all-terrain tires, and a higher ground clearance. It also boasts the largest dimensions in the RAV4 lineup, measuring 181.8 inches long, 67.8 inches high, and 74 inches wide.
Meanwhile, the CR-V hybrid is slightly longer in length at 184.8 inches, shorter in height at 66.6 inches, and narrower in width at 73.4 inches. Honda also has a longer wheelbase, measuring 106.3 inches, surpassing Toyota’s 105.9 inches.
To compete with the outdoor performance prowess of the RAV4, the CR-V introduces the TrailSport version for the first time, equipped with all-terrain tires and a rugged appearance. Unlike the RAV4, the CR-V does not come with 20-inch wheels. In general, “Car and Driver” appreciates the refined appearance of the Honda model. (To view the TrailSport version, click here.)
The Toyota RAV4 hybrid still features a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with two or three electric motors. The third electric motor makes up the all-wheel-drive system, producing a combined output of 236 horsepower (higher than 219 hp); the hybrid front-wheel-drive RAV4 has 226 hp. The comparison does not include the plug-in hybrid model, but it now offers an impressive 320 horsepower.
The power of the Honda CR-V hybrid falls short of the RAV4 PHEV and slightly behind the regular RAV4 hybrid model. Honda is equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and two electric motors, producing a combined output of 204 horsepower. In addition to the unique direct-drive transmission, it offers a choice between front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
The towing capacity of the CR-V hybrid reaches up to 1000 pounds, while the RAV4 hybrid has a larger towing capacity, up to 3500 pounds. Toyota has not disclosed the official fuel efficiency data for the new RAV4, but for reference, the previous generation hybrid model achieved a maximum of 39 miles per gallon (the new front-wheel-drive model is expected to meet or exceed this figure). In comparison, the CR-V hybrid achieves a fuel efficiency of 40 miles per gallon (front-wheel drive) and 37 miles per gallon (all-wheel drive).
The interior design of the new RAV4 is sleek, featuring a standard 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, and a 10.5-inch or 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While it retains physical temperature control buttons, Toyota has removed the prominent HVAC knobs. The cabin includes physical buttons to adjust temperature, while fan speed and seat heating/ventilation can now be controlled through the touchscreen.
There appears to be practical storage space inside the vehicle, with a shelf for the front passengers and dedicated storage on the center console. Users looking for premium features can opt for the nine-speaker JBL audio system and a head-up display.
The layout of the CR-V interior is simple yet appears more upscale in design. Toyota’s electronic display screen is larger, while Honda’s switchgear is more user-friendly, including larger HVAC knobs. Every CR-V hybrid model comes with wireless charging, a 9.0-inch touchscreen with built-in Google software (wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also standard). The base model features a four-speaker stereo system, while users seeking a more premium setup can choose the twelve-speaker Bose audio system.
The 2026 Honda CR-V hybrid starts at $37,025; the all-wheel-drive model starts at $38,525. The pure all-wheel-drive TrailSport model starts at $40,195, and the top-notch Sport Touring model starts at $43,645.
Toyota has not announced the pricing for the 2026 RAV4 lineup. However, if we were to make an educated guess, the starting price for the RAV4 hybrid could be around $34,000, with a $1,500 premium for the all-wheel-drive model. Opting for the rugged Woodland version may push the price close to $40,000. The RAV4 Limited is expected to be the most expensive hybrid model, with an estimated starting price of around $42,000.
The 2026 Honda CR-V is now arriving at dealerships, while consumers will have to wait until later this year to get their hands on the new RAV4.