If you're looking to buy a used family SUV, the 2022 Toyota RAV4 and the 2022 Kia Sportage are two of the most searched-for models. In this comparison we see if the Sportage, which was at the end of its fourth generation in 2022, has the performance, practicality and cost efficiency to match one of the most popular vehicles in the US: the long-running RAV4. Using scores and hands-on testing from CarGurus team of expert reviewers, we'll help you decide which of these models is the best fit.
2022 Toyota RAV4 vs 2022 Kia Sportage
Look and Feel
CarGurus experts rate the 2022 Toyota RAV4 with an impressive 9 out of 10 for its look and feel. Over its five generations of production, the RAV4 has evolved from a left-field choice to today's market-dominating compact SUV. The 2022 RAV4 embodies contemporary crossover design with angular wheel arches, crisp lines, expressive headlights, and a unique grille that adds a touch of playfulness and aggression. Inside, the RAV4 boasts a well-thought-out cabin with a layered dash, contrasting textures, and a driver-friendly touchscreen interface.
You'd never have believed it even a decade ago, but the Sportage has risen to become one of the top compact SUVs in the US, helping it to score an equally brilliant 9 out of 10 for its look and feel. The Sportage features Kia's signature tiger-nose grille, though it might not be to everyone's liking. However, the SUV's overall design, from the four-dot running light signature to its symmetrical rear fascia, exudes style. Inside, the Sportage takes inspiration from Germanic design cues, offering a sophisticated and upscale look. Buttons and knobs make for intuitive control of various features, adding to the SUV's overall appeal.
Performance
The RAV4 offers a choice of three powertrains to cater to different needs. The gasoline-only model utilizes a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. With impressive fuel economy ranging from 27-28 mpg city to 35 mpg highway, it's a fuel-efficient choice. The RAV4 Hybrid combines a 2.5-liter engine with an electric motor, providing a combined 217 horsepower and an outstanding EPA-rated 40 mpg combined. For the performance or green (or both) enthusiasts, the RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid boasts 302 hp, 94 MPGe efficiency, and an electric-only range of up to 42 miles. This wide range of powertrains combined with the RAV4's safe, almost car-like handling, help it to earn an 8 out of 10 performance rating from our team.
Most Sportage models come with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine generating 181 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque. The Sportage SX Turbo, however, ups the ante with a robust 240 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. This turbocharged engine delivers quick acceleration, especially at lower RPMs. With a smooth six-speed automatic transmission and optional all-wheel drive, the Sportage offers a decent driving experience, and does a good job of blending comfort with reasonably sporty handling. Overall it scores 7 out of 10 for its performance.
Form and Function
The RAV4's growth over the years has resulted in a usefully spacious interior. It can accommodate up to 37.5 cubic feet of cargo behind the second row, expandable to 69.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. With a payload capacity ranging from 1,050 to 1,230 pounds and towing capabilities of up to 3,500 pounds (for Adventure and TRD Off-Road models), the RAV4 is a versatile workhorse. It comfortably seats four adults in the roomy front and rear, and is a predictably practical choice for families, earning a score of 9 out of 10 in this category.
Despite its compact size, the 2022 Kia Sportage surprises with a spacious interior. In higher trim levels front-seat occupants enjoy premium features like heated and ventilated seats, while in all trims rear passengers benefit from ample legroom. Cargo space is acceptable but not exceptional, with 30.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 60.1 cubic feet when the seats are folded down. This is one area where it lags behind the RAV4, which costs it a point in this category that results in an 8 out of 10 rating. The smart liftgate technology adds convenience for hands-free access to the trunk–simply stand near the back of the vehicle and the trunk will open.
Technology
CarGurus experts rate the 2022 Toyota RAV4 at an impressive 8 out of 10 for technology. The RAV4 starts with a healthy level of technology in its base trim. Standard features include a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, six-speaker audio system, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and Apple CarPlay compatibility. Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity and streaming audio are standard on all models. RAV4 XLE models and above upgrade to Audio Plus with a 9-inch touchscreen. The top-tier Limited models and RAV4 Prime XSE boast an 11-speaker JBL audio system and navigation. The RAV4 Prime showcases even more technology with numerous USB ports, power outlets, blue ambient illumination, a wireless smartphone charging pad, a bird’s-eye view camera system, and a 10-inch color head-up display.
The 2022 Kia Sportage offers a commendable level of technology, though it's rated slightly lower by CarGurus experts, at 6 out of 10. It comes with a standard 8-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Most trim levels also include UVO Link connected services and satellite radio. The top-tier SX Turbo trim adds wireless smartphone charging and an excellent 8-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system with Clari-Fi digital music restoration technology. While the infotainment system is easy to use, some drawbacks include the absence of a WiFi hotspot, hit-and-miss voice-recognition technology, and wired smartphone mirroring.
Safety
CarGurus experts rate the 2022 Toyota RAV4 at an impressive 9 out of 10 for safety. The RAV4 is equipped with Toyota’s Star Safety System, which includes vital safety features such as enhanced vehicle stability control, traction control, anti-lock braking, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, and smart stop technology. It also offers LATCH child-seat lower anchors on outboard rear seats, tether anchors on all rear seats, and child-guard locks on both rear side doors. Eight airbags provide cabin protection in the event of a collision. Then there's Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which is designed to prevent that collision happening in the first place. This comprehensive suite of driver-assist systems comes standard and includes features like pre-collision with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert with steering assist, automatic high beams, lane-tracing assist, and road sign assist. Higher grades get additional features such as blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert and front and rear parking assist with automatic braking.
The 2022 Toyota RAV4 has earned top safety ratings from both the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
The 2022 Kia Sportage also scores well for safety, earning a commendable 8 out of 10 from CarGurus experts. It comes with forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, automatic high-beam headlights, and a driver monitoring system as standard across all trim levels. To get a blind-spot warning system with rear cross-traffic warning, you need to opt for the LX Value Edition Package or any version of the Sportage except the base LX.
According to crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, the Kia Sportage is considered a safe SUV. However, it's worth noting that only the SX Turbo trim earns an "Acceptable" headlight rating, which is required for IIHS Top Safety Pick status.
Cost Effectiveness
The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offers a broad range of options. When new it started at $26,975 and reached up to $43,625. This pricing spectrum represents a significant departure from the RAV4's origins as an entry-level crossover, and put the RAV4 at just above average within its segment. The RAV4 lineup includes gasoline-only models with six trim levels, hybrid models with six AWD-only options, and the RAV4 Prime with two AWD trims. As a used buy the 2022 RAV4 continues to hold its ground as a dependable and durable choice. We particularly rate the RAV4 Hybrid XLE Premium, which offers a balanced combination of equipment and efficiency. Overall the RAV4 scores 7 out of 10 for its cost effectiveness.
When new the 2022 Kia Sportage delivered enough value to earn it a score of 8 out of 10 in this category, helped by the then-new LX Value Edition Package and industry-leading warranty coverage. The SX Turbo trim stands out for its impressive performance. However, it's essential to note that the redesigned 2022 Hyundai Tucson, a corporate sibling within the Hyundai Motor Group, offers a more cost-effective option. Not only that, but an all-new Sportage arrived in 2023 bringing further enhancements. If you're looking at a 2022 Sportage as a used buy, make sure it's appreciably more cost effective than a redesigned model that's one year younger.
Verdict
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2022 Toyota RAV4 is 8.3 out of 10, while the 2022 Kia Sportage scores 7.7 out of 10. The RAV4 stands out with its variety of powertrains, exceptional fuel efficiency, and generous cargo capacity. The Kia Sportage fights back with offering excellent value for money, and the option of a potent turbocharged engine for those who prefer a sportier drive. However, in this comparison the RAV4's considerable strengths are enough to secure it our recommendation.
Choose the 2022 Toyota RAV4 if:
- Long-term reliability and durability are important factors in your decision-making process.
- You are considering the benefits of a hybrid or plug-in hybrid option for fuel efficiency and environmental concerns.
- You prefer a more traditional and rugged look to your SUV.
Search for a 2022 Toyota RAV4 on CarGurus
Choose the 2022 Kia Sportage if:
- You are looking for a value-packed compact SUV with a well-rounded set of features.
- You prefer a sportier driving experience, especially in the SX Turbo trim.
- You don't mind buying a model that was soon to be replaced by a more modern design.
Search for a 2022 Kia Sportage on CarGurus
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