In 2025, the Toyota RAV4 is the best-selling vehicle in the United States, second only to pickup trucks. With high demand for the RAV4, it may not be the easiest model to purchase compared to others. However, if you are looking for alternatives without the wait, there are several other great options on the market that offer competitive value compared to the RAV4.
Recently, “U.S. News & World Report” released a list of the hottest-selling vehicle models in 2025, including electric SUVs, pickup trucks, midsize SUVs, and compact cars. Among the top ten best-selling vehicles for 2025, the Toyota RAV4 ranks third.
While the Toyota RAV4 has many standout features in the practical SUV segment, it is not the only choice available. The strengths of the RAV4 can also be found in competing models, with some rivals even outperforming this flagship compact SUV in certain aspects.
“U.S. News & World Report” curated a selection of excellent vehicle models that can serve as alternatives to the 2025 Toyota RAV4. These models offer passionate driving experiences, more comfortable features, and various advantages that appeal to potential RAV4 buyers. Below are six of the top-rated models for buyers to consider.
Rating: 9.2/10
Starting Price: $28,770
The Mazda CX-5, with its excellent driving experience and luxurious interior, topped the list of compact SUVs by “U.S. News & World Report,” with a suggested retail price slightly lower than the affordable RAV4.
The CX-5 offers two engine options that provide spirited and exciting performance for everyday city driving. Additionally, the optional turbocharged powertrain excels on highways with enhanced overtaking and merging capabilities. Combined with its agile handling, the CX-5 offers a more enjoyable driving experience compared to the RAV4.
The interior of the CX-5 rivals entry-level products from luxury brands like Audi and Mercedes-Benz. From the seats to the various control buttons on the center console, everything exudes a high-end and elegant touch.
Rating: 9.2/10
Starting Price: $20,490
The Kia Soul was awarded the “Best Value Supermini SUV of 2025” by “U.S. News & World Report” for its unexpectedly cozy interior space, priced nearly $10,000 lower than the RAV4. The Kia Soul offers excellent driving fun and spaciousness.
The boxy design of the Kia Soul provides surprisingly ample interior space for a subcompact vehicle. Tall passengers in the rear seats will enjoy more room than the second-row passengers in the RAV4. Its compact size makes parking easy, while its excellent handling shines in urban driving.
Rating: 9.1/10
Starting Price: $29,010
One of the Subaru Outback’s standout features for 2025 is its wagon body style, a unique alternative to the RAV4 and other compact SUVs.
The Outback comes standard with all-wheel-drive, and while the base engine’s performance is average, the upgraded turbocharged four-cylinder engine offers more power than any RAV4 model with improved fuel efficiency.
Similar to many Subaru models, the Outback features excellent build quality and decent comfort in the interior, though it is not overtly luxurious. The seats throughout the cabin are comfortable for adults, with noticeably more space in the front row.
Overall Rating: 9.1/10
Starting Price: $28,705
The Hyundai Tucson was awarded the “Best Value Compact SUV of 2025” and “Best Family Compact SUV of 2025” by “U.S. News & World Report.” While priced similarly to the RAV4, the Tucson boasts a more refined interior design. Combined with a smoother driving experience, the Tucson offers an overall more sophisticated experience.
Both the Tucson and RAV4 deliver similar acceleration performance, but the Tucson’s everyday driving dynamics are on par with the RAV4. Testers found that the Hyundai Tucson’s professionally tuned steering and suspension systems left little room for criticism, setting it apart from Toyota.
The stylish design enhances the elegance of the Tucson’s cabin. With plenty of soft touch surfaces, ample sound insulation, and spacious and comfortable front and rear seats, the cabin experience is elevated.
Rating: 9.0/10
Starting Price: $30,100
The enduring Honda CR-V, like the RAV4, is an excellent all-around compact SUV. Its comfortable seats and impressive fuel economy rival the Toyota. However, the Honda offers more cargo space and slightly better interior appointments.
The rear seats provide 39.3 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 76.5 cubic feet when folded down, surpassing the RAV4.
All seats in the vehicle are spacious and comfortable, with taller passengers preferring the CR-V’s second-row headroom and reclining seats. Meticulously crafted cabin amenities include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, automatic climate control, and a four-speaker audio system.
Overall Rating: 8.9/10
Starting Price: $29,995
The 2025 Subaru Forester has been redesigned from the previous model, incorporating more safety features, and has received a styling upgrade. The Subaru brand signifies a more rugged and durable compact SUV compared to the commuter-focused RAV4, making it a good daily driver as well.
Standard all-wheel drive (an additional $1,400 upgrade for the RAV4) helps the Forester maintain good traction in rainy or snowy conditions, while the comfortable driving experience matches the supportive seats. With 75 cubic feet of maximum cargo space, the Forester’s cargo capacity surpasses that of the RAV4.
The interior features intricate design, high-quality craftsmanship, and luxurious elements like bronze accents or suede materials.