2026 Toyota RAV4 vs. 2026 Honda CR-V: Let's compare the numbers
Compact SUVs are an extremely popular niche, especially in Quebec, and the two top-selling models will come as no surprise: the Toyota RAV4 and the Honda CR-V. The former is entering a new generation for the 2026 model year and offers an exclusively hybrid lineup, while the latter is responding with a few changes, including the addition of a more adventurous TrailSport version.
If you are considering either option, read on to make the best possible choice.
Powertrain: RAV4 advantage
The Toyota RAV4 is abandoning gasoline engines for the first time. It now comes standard with a hybrid system whose power has been increased to 236 horsepower. Total torque is not specified. An electronically controlled continuously variable transmission manages everything. The plug-in hybrid RAV4 generates 324 horsepower and can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in as little as 5.7 seconds. All-wheel drive is standard on all models.
For its part, the Honda CR-V starts with a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine that delivers 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque, while its optional hybrid system develops 204 horsepower and 247 lb-ft. The latter adds electronic control to the continuously variable transmission. Unfortunately, the entry-level version is limited to front-wheel drive, while the other CR-Vs feature four-wheel drive.
Although Honda's engines run efficiently, Toyota has the edge thanks to superior fuel economy and a plug-in hybrid variant that its rival does not offer.
Fuel consumption: RAV4 advantage
In terms of fuel consumption, the new 2026 RAV4 is exceptional, with averages ranging from just 5.5 to 6.2 L/100 km according to Natural Resources Canada. The ratings for the RAV4 plug-in hybrid have not yet been published at the time of writing, but engineers have found a way to increase the electric range to 82 km, covering most daily commutes, even in winter.
For its part, the turbocharged CR-V burns 7.8 or 8.4 L/100 km depending on its drivetrain, while the hybrid models lower these figures to 6.4 and 6.7 L/100 km under normal conditions. Clearly, Honda has not mastered the art of fuel economy as well as Toyota.
Capabilities: RAV4 advantage
The cargo volume of the 2026 Toyota RAV4 is 1,070 liters, and its towing capacity is 3,500 lb on most versions (the base RAV4 LE is limited to 1,750 lb).
The cargo area of the gasoline-powered Honda CR-V can carry 1,113 liters of luggage, while the hybrid CR-V can carry 1,028 liters. That's sometimes a little more, sometimes a little less than in the RAV4. However, the towing capacity is not really comparable: it is only 1,500 lb for the former and 1,000 lb for the latter.
In terms of off-road capabilities, the ground clearance of the RAV4 and CR-V is very similar, with a slight advantage for the RAV4 Woodland (216 mm) over the CR-V TrailSport (208 mm).
Infotainment: RAV4 advantage
Completely redesigned and therefore more modern, the 2026 Toyota RAV4 has a 10.5-inch or 12.9-inch touchscreen, depending on the version, paired with a 12.3-inch digital dashboard. Its available audio systems include six or nine speakers.
The Honda CR-V features a touchscreen measuring just 9 inches, and its digital instrumentation is 7 inches as standard, or 10.2 inches in higher-end versions. Its audio systems have four, six, eight, or twelve speakers.
Price: equal
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 is obviously more expensive than its predecessor. The range starts at $37,500, and the most expensive model costs $52,450, not including transportation and preparation fees. Note, however, that prices for the 2026 RAV4 plug-in hybrid have not yet been announced.
The Honda CR-V starts at $36,975 and goes up to $51,200. Again, various fees are not included. Its price range is therefore quite comparable, if not slightly lower. However, if we take the least expensive CR-V hybrid, priced at $45,900, Honda loses the price battle.
On the other hand, don't forget about interest rates. Honda's rates are a little more favorable right now, for example 5.49% for a 60-month lease compared to 6.69% at Toyota. That can make a big difference in the final calculation.
Warranties: RAV4 advantage
Both Toyota and Honda offer consumers a basic warranty and powertrain warranty of 3 years/60,000 km and 5 years/100,000 km, respectively. The warranty on hybrid powertrain components is 8 years/160,000 km. However, Toyota has the advantage when it comes to the high-voltage battery, covering it for 10 years/240,000 km. Finally, roadside assistance is the same for both manufacturers, at 3 years/unlimited mileage.
