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The battle between the top SUVs continues to be strong even if auto sales are declining. The Toyota RAV4 sells more units than the Honda CR-V even though the CR-V has a better reliability rating, resale value, more space, more comfort, and better tech. However, the RAv4 finally has another win. 

The Toyota RAV4 has lower maintenance costs than the Honda CR-V 

Give the Toyota RAV4 a round of applause for figuring out how to beat the Honda CR-V in one crucial area. For years the CR-V has been praised for its extra space, more refined ride, ample tech, and low costs. 

Now the RAV4 has something to brag about aside from being more popular. According to CarEdge, it costs $5,531 to maintain the RAV4 during its first 10 years of ownership. That’s $3,602 less than the average SUV model. 

The Honda CR-V costs $7,155 to maintain during its first 10 years, which is $1,970 less than the average. It also costs about $1,624 more than the RAV4 to maintain. 

But the CR-V could last a bit longer. The RAV4 is expected to last anywhere between 200,000 to 250,000 miles while the average CR-V model is expected to make it between 250,000 to 300,000 miles. 

The 2024 Honda CR-V off-roading
2024 Honda CR-V | Honda

So, is saving $1,624 worth the risk of having an SUV that doesn’t last as long? The CR-V could provide a few extra years of service. 

The RAV4 is described as being built to last with a strong reputation for durability, meaning fewer replacements. It also holds its value well. 

The CR-V is described as having a consistently high-reliability rating and reduced unexpected repair costs. It has affordable routine maintenance and fewer severe issues. Plus, it has a high resale value, meaning it’s a cost-effective long-term investment. 

According to J.D.Power, the 2024 CR-V has a reliability rating of 80 out of 100. The 2024 Toyota RAV4 has a score of 76 out of 100. 

That’s only a four-point difference, but if you’re not first, you’re last. Scores between 70 and 80 are average while scores between 81 and 91 are above average. The CR-V was only one point away from getting into a higher bracket. 

So, while the CR-V has a lot of wins over the RAV4 to consider, the RAV4 shines with a lower maintenance cost. 

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Staff Writer

Allison Barfield

Allison Barfield joined MotorBiscuit in 2020 and covers all things trucks, SUVs, and Jeeps. Having grown up on a farm in Rock Hill, South Carolina, she’s no stranger to the “Best in Class” truck and SUV debates; people in her hometown were always gathering to help work on vehicles together, and deliberation would naturally arise.

Allison graduated from the University of South Carolina with a degree in Media Arts. She has helped bring awareness to issues Women In Trucking face and has promoted Truckers Against Trafficking, an anti-trafficking NGO.

A fan of creatively dark literature, Allison appreciates the works of Shirley Jackson and Emily Dickenson. She lives in a mountainous area of the country and enjoys off-roading and camping. Her dog, Bruce, often joins her in testing trucks and SUVs for our site.