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The Toyota RAV4 is a highly successful model. It’s not only the best-selling compact SUV, but it’s also the best-selling SUV in the world. However, automotive shoppers now have another enticing choice for a Toyota compact SUV with the first-ever Corolla Cross. The RAV4 has some advantages over the Corolla Cross, though. Here are four reasons to buy a 2022 Toyota RAV4, not a 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross. 

2022 Toyota RAV4 delivers better performance than the 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross

Front angle view of Cavalry Blue 2022 Toyota RAV4
2022 Toyota RAV4 | Toyota

The first reason to buy a 2022 Toyota RAV4 instead of a 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross is the RAV4 delivers better performance than the Corolla Cross. It offers three engine options, and they are all more powerful than the 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine in the Corolla Cross (169 hp/150 lb-ft of torque). Outputs for the RAV4’s engines are 203 hp/184 lb-ft of torque for the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, 219 hp for the hybrid engine, and 308 hp for the plug-in hybrid engine in the RAV4 Prime.

The more powerful engines in the RAV4 result in quicker acceleration. Here are the 0-60 mph acceleration times for each RAV4 model and the Corolla Cross:

  • Gas-powered RAV4: 7.8 seconds
  • RAV4 Hybrid: 7.5 seconds
  • RAV4 Prime: 5.5 seconds
  • Corolla Cross: 9.2 seconds

2022 RAV4 can tow more than the 2022 Corolla Cross

Front angle view of Celestite 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross
2022 Toyota Corolla Cross | Toyota

The second reason to buy a RAV4 instead of a Corolla Cross is the RAV4 can tow more than the Corolla Cross. Depending on the model, the RAV4 can tow up to 3,500 pounds. In comparison, the Corolla Cross has a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 pounds.

Toyota RAV4 is better for off-road use than the Corolla Cross

The third reason to buy a RAV4 instead of a Corolla Cross is the RAV4 is better for off-road use. For one, the RAV4 has higher ground clearance than the Corolla Cross (up to 8.6 vs. 8.1 inches). Higher ground clearance makes it easier for the RAV4 to drive over rugged terrain. Also, unlike the Corolla Cross, the RAV4 offers an off-road-focused model with the RAV4 TRD Off-Road, which features an off-road-tuned suspension and large off-road tires. 

2022 RAV4 provides more interior space than the 2022 Corolla Cross

The fourth reason to buy a RAV4 instead of a Corolla Cross is the RAV4 provides more interior space than the Corolla Cross. With its bigger size, the RAV4 has a total passenger volume of 98.9 cu-ft, compared to 95.9 cu-ft for the Corolla Cross. The available space is most noticeable for the rear seats of the RAV4. It has 37.8 inches of rear legroom, compared to 32.0 inches for the Corolla Cross. 

Also, the RAV4 offers considerably more storage space. It has a rear cargo capacity of 37.6 cu-ft, compared to 26.5 cu-ft for the Corolla Cross. 

In making a buying decision between the 2022 Toyota RAV4 and the 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross, the RAV4 has multiple advantages in its favor. This includes better performance, a higher towing capacity, better off-road capabilities, and more interior space. 

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