When you put your kids and spouse in an SUV, you want it to be the best option. The SUV should not only be safe but capable as well. Two incredible family SUV options include the Honda CR-V and the Toyota RAV4, but which one is better? 

The Honda CR-V Vs. The Toyota RAV4 

Price 

First, we will begin with which option has the best price for an SUV. Both models start around $25k with a variety of trim levels to choose from that raise the costs between $35k to $37k. 

The RAV4 has the most expensive trim option, so the CR-V claims a narrow victory when it comes to affordability. 

Power 

The 2020 Honda CR-V has a standard 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an output of 190 horsepower and 171 pound-foot of torque. It also has a maximum towing compacity of 1,500 pounds. 

Also, the CR-V has a pretty good fuel economy and gets an average of up to 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. 

The RAV4 has a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an output of 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. So, the RAV4 comes with more power and the ability to tow up to 3,500 pounds. If you need to haul a heavier item, then go with the RAV4. 

The extra power that comes with the RAV4 doesn’t hurt its fuel economy. This SUV gets an average of up to 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. 

Both the CR-V and RAV4 come with all-wheel drive options to allow for a little off-roading capability and safer handling in slippery conditions such as snow. 

Space 

Another vital factor to consider for your family is if it has enough room for all of your kids, luggage, maybe a friend or two, and of course the family dog. 

The RAV4 has 34.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats. Once the seats are folded down, you can access up to 69.8 cubic feet of cargo space. This is more than enough room for the kids, luggage, bikes, and more. 

The Honda CR-V offers 39.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and up to 75.8 cubic feet of cargo space with the seats folded down. 

Therefore, the CR-V is a little larger than the RAV4. It’s praised for having a bit more legroom, so this is the better choice if your family is taller. 

Safety 

The Honda CR-V is one of the safest SUV options available with excellent ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA. However, the RAV4 isn’t far behind as an IIHS top safety pick. 

The RAV4 also comes with a few more safety features such as drowsy driver alert, traffic sign monitoring, pedestrian detection, and more. 

However, the Honda CR-V and RAV-4 both come with forward collision prevention, lane departure assist, adaptive cruise control, and more. 

So, when it comes down to the wire, the RAV4 is only slightly safer than the Honda CR-V. 

Which Vehicle Wins?

It’s hard to say which vehicle is best for your family. Both models are safe, capable, and fuel-efficient options. 

You need to determine which features best match your family’s needs. If you need more power to haul items go with the RAV4, but if you want a little more space go with the Honda CR-V.