The Toyota RAV4 is an enormously successful model, as it’s the best-selling SUV in the world. Why is the RAV4 so popular compared to other SUVs? It’s because the 2022 Toyota RAV4 embarrasses its compact crossover SUV competitors in three key areas. Are you jealous, Honda CR-V, Nissan Rogue, Ford Escape, and Mazda CX-5 owners?

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 provides value, with premium features at an affordable price

The first reason why the 2022 Toyota RAV4 is better than other compact crossover SUVs is the incredible value that it provides. You get a lot of bang for your buck, with many premium features at an affordable price. Even the base-level RAV4 LE trim, which has a starting price of $26,525 MSRP, has a lengthy list of standard features. This includes a Wi-Fi hotspot, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration. 

All RAV4 models, including the RAV4 LE, also have a plethora of driving assistance features, such as road sign assist, a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert, and automatic high beams. As you go higher in the RAV4 trim lineup, you can enjoy many other premium features, such as a hands-free power tailgate, parking assist with automatic braking, and heated and ventilated seats.

Furthermore, unlike most of its compact crossover SUV rivals, the RAV4 has a no-cost maintenance plan. This includes 2-years/25-miles of free maintenance, plus 24/7 roadside assistance.

Toyota RAV4: An impressive combination of performance and efficiency

The second reason why the 2022 Toyota RAV4 is better than its compact crossover SUV competitors is that it provides an impressive combination of performance and efficiency. On the efficiency front, the gas-powered RAV4 has a fuel economy of up to 30 combined mpg, while the RAV4 Hybrid has a gas mileage of up to 40 combined mpg. Also, the RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid has a fuel efficiency of 94 MPGe when in electric-only mode and 38 combined mpg in hybrid mode.

The high-level efficiency of the RAV4 doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice performance. This is especially the case for the RAV4 Prime. It generates a total system output of 308 hp and boasts a sports car-like 0-60 mph acceleration time of 5.5 seconds. No other mainstream compact crossover SUV can match this performance and acceleration. 

2022 RAV4: Highly capable for both on-road and off-road driving

The third reason why the 2022 Toyota RAV4 is better than its compact crossover SUV rivals is that it is highly capable for both on-road and off-road driving. For on-road driving, the RAV4 provides plenty of power, a smooth and comfortable ride, and is quite maneuverable for an SUV. With its available all-wheel drive system, the RAV4 can more than hold its own for off-road use. For even greater off-road capabilities, the RAV4 offers the off-road-focused TRD Off-Road and Adventure models. 

Most other compact crossover SUVs are adequate for on-road driving but have limitations for off-road use. The one exception is the Subaru Forester, which drives fairly well on uneven terrain. However, the on-road driving dynamics of the Forester are not as good as the RAV4. More than any other mainstream compact crossover SUV, the RAV4 performs well for both on-road and off-road driving.

With the three key advantages, the 2022 Toyota RAV4 embarrasses its compact crossover SUV competitors. Are you rethinking your purchase, Honda CR-V, Nissan Rogue, Ford Escape, and Mazda CX-5 owners?