The 2022 Toyota RAV4 and the 2022 Toyota Highlander are both great choices for anybody looking for a reliable SUV. Once a much more smaller and simpler model, the RAV4 has evolved over several generations into a compact SUV with efficient powertrains, a spacious and flexible interior, and stylish exterior design. In this comparison, it's up against the 2022 Toyota Highlander, which excels in delivering a family-friendly three-row midsize SUV with a robust V6 engine and a focus on essential safety features. Both models offer options for different needs and budgets, the the Highlander's third row of seats being the most obvious difference. But is bigger better when it comes to Toyota's SUVs?
2022 Toyota RAV4 vs 2022 Toyota Highlander
Look and Feel:
CarGurus experts rate the 2022 Toyota RAV4 at an impressive 9 out of 10 for its style and quality. The RAV4 has come a long way since its introduction in 1996 as a compact alternative to larger SUVs. Over the years, it has matured into a top-selling crossover SUV in the United States. The RAV4's exterior design, while not radically distinctive, features angular flourishes in the wheel arches, crisp lines, expressive headlights, and a snub-nosed grille that gives it a playful yet aggressive appearance. Toyota's renowned fit-and-finish adds a sense of quality to the overall exterior.
Inside, the RAV4 boasts a well-thought-out interior with a layered dash, contrasting textures, and a user-friendly center stack. The touchscreen interface is conveniently positioned for the driver, minimizing distractions. The cabin features a circuit-board-inspired geometric pattern on some models, which creates a cohesive design theme throughout.
The 2022 Toyota Highlander is rated by CarGurus experts at 8 out of 10. It presents a modern and somewhat aggressive front-end design, with flared fender arches and clever design elements that make it appear slightly smaller than it is. However, step inside, and you'll find ample cabin space and smart storage solutions.
Notably, the Highlander XSE trim stands out with its bold optional red leather package, contrasting the sedate navy blue exterior. This trim also offers unique exterior styling, ambient interior lighting, and a sport-tuned suspension for those seeking a more dynamic driving experience.
The Highlander lineup offers various trims, each with its own set of features. Even the base L trim impresses with 18-inch alloy wheels, pushbutton start, three-zone climate control, and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa.
Performance:
The RAV4 offers a range of powertrains to cater to different preferences, which helps it to earn a score of 8 out of 10 for performance from CarGurus experts.
Gasoline-only versions of the 2022 RAV4 are equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. It comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission and is available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. Fuel economy for FWD models is 27-28 mpg city/35 mpg highway/30 mpg combined, while AWD models achieve slightly lower figures at 25-27 mpg city/32-34 mpg highway/28-30 mpg combined.
Move up the range to the RAV4 Hybrid and you'll get a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine combined with an electric motor, producing a combined net output of 217 horsepower. It features an electronic continuously variable transmission (eCVT) and impressive fuel economy at 41 mpg city/38 mpg highway/40 mpg combined.
The RAV4 Prime is the performance-oriented plug-in hybrid variant, featuring a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine paired with a larger battery pack for 302 total horsepower. It offers standard AWD and can travel up to 42 miles on electricity alone, with an efficiency rating of 94 MPGe combined.
All RAV4 models maintain car-like handling with four-wheel independent suspension and features like Multi-Terrain Select tuning and dynamic torque vectoring for enhanced stability and handling.
CarGurus experts rate the 2022 Toyota Highlander at 7 out of 10 for performance. Being a larger and heavier vehicle, the Highlander is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. It comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission and offers a choice between front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations.
The V6 engine provides good acceleration, especially at highway speeds, making it suitable for overtaking and merging onto highways. It also boasts a throaty exhaust note during acceleration. For those seeking improved economy, there's also a hybrid version of the 2022 Highlander.
The Highlander's handling is commendable, with the XSE trim offering a sport-tuned suspension that reduces body roll while maintaining a comfortable ride. Steering is well-weighted, providing confidence during high-speed turns.
When properly equipped, the Highlander can tow up to 5,000 pounds, while the RAV4 Adventure and TRD Off Road models max out at 3,500 pounds.
Form and Function:
CarGurus experts rate both the 2022 Toyota RAV4 and the 2022 Toyota Highlander at an impressive 9 out of 10 for form and function.
While still classified as a compact SUV, the RAV4 offers good cargo capacity. With the second-row seats up, it can hold up to 37.5 cubic feet of luggage, and with the seats folded flat, it expands to an impressive 69.8 cubic feet. The RAV4's roomy interior comfortably accommodates four adults, with ample legroom, hip room, shoulder room, and headroom in the front row. The rear seats offer reasonable comfort, making it suitable for five passengers when needed.
The 2022 Toyota Highlander is a larger and more practical vehicle. With the second-row seats in use, it still offers a generous 48.4 cubic feet of cargo capacity, ensuring ample room for your belongings. Even with all seats in use, there's still 16 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, which is convenient for grocery runs and small luggage. Fold all the rear seats down for ultimate capacity and the Highlander provides an impressive 84.3 cubic feet of cargo space, making it one of the most spacious in its segment.
The Highlander's interior design is practical, with thoughtful storage solutions such as deep cargo pockets, ledges in the center of the dash, and ample cupholders throughout the cabin. The second-row captain's chairs create a center aisle, providing additional space for passengers and cargo. However, it's worth noting that the third-row seats are best suited for short trips or children.
Technology
The 2022 RAV4 impresses with a range of technology features, scoring a rating of 8 out of 10 from CarGurus experts. Standard features include a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and Apple CarPlay compatibility, SiriusXM satellite radio, Safety Connect, Service Connect, and Wi-Fi Connect. Bluetooth connectivity is standard across all models.
Upgrade to RAV4 XLE and above, and you'll enjoy an Audio Plus system with a 9-inch touchscreen. Limited models and the RAV4 Prime XSE take it a step further with an impressive 11-speaker JBL audio system and navigation. The RAV4 Prime boasts additional tech features like five USB ports, power outlets, ambient illumination, a wireless smartphone charging pad, a bird's-eye view camera system, and a 10-inch color head-up display.
The 2022 Highlander also scores 8 out of 10 for its technology offering. It comes standard with a WiFi hotspot, five USB ports, and an 8-inch touchscreen supporting Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. While it lacks wireless smartphone connectivity, it compensates with a straightforward layout and hard buttons for easy access.
Underneath the climate controls on XSE trims, you'll find a wireless charging pad and a mix of USB and USB-C ports. There's also an option for a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen, a digital instrument panel screen, and an 11-speaker JBL premium stereo system.
Safety
The 2022 RAV4 scored 9 out of 10 from CarGurus experts when it comes to safety. It comes equipped with Toyota's Star Safety System, featuring 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 anchors and tether anchors on all rear seats, along with child-guard locks on both rear side doors.
The RAV4 includes Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, a suite of driver-assist systems standard on all models. This suite comprises a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, automatic high beams, lane-tracing assist, and road sign assist. Higher trims get blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking assist with automatic braking. It's a top safety pick according to the IIHS and boasts high ratings from NHTSA.
The 2022 Highlander is no slouch in the safety department either, with a score of 8 out of 10. It comes standard with the Toyota Safety Sense suite, which as with the RAV4 includes features such as forward collision avoidance, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, traffic-sign recognition, and automatic high beams. All but the base trim feature blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
While the safety features are robust, some drivers may find the lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist systems to be a bit overactive.
Cost Effectiveness
The 2022 RAV4 offered a broad price range when new, starting at $26,975 and going up to $43,625 before delivery fees and options. With six gasoline-only trim levels and six hybrid options, there's plenty of choice on the used market too. The RAV4 Adventure, equipped with various options, had an as-tested MSRP of $39,356. While it competes with a fierce pool of compact SUVs, its reputation for long-term dependability and durability remains strong.
The 2022 Highlander was a more expensive car when new, starting at $35,855 for the base L trim and going up to $48,010 for the top-of-the-line Platinum. That price premium has carried over to the used market too, so potential buyers need to consider how much they value the Highlander's extra size, space and seats. While it may not be the cheapest in its segment, it excels in providing a standard V6 engine, a flexible interior, and advanced safety features.
Verdict
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2022 Toyota RAV4 and the 2022 Toyota Highlander is an equal 8 out of 10. We'd happily recommend either of these highly-rated vehicles; whether you value the RAV4's lower price, smaller dimensions, and range of powertains, or need the Highlander's extra practicality, both of these SUVs should provide trouble-free ownership.
Choose the 2022 Toyota RAV4 if:
- You're looking for a compact SUV with a wide range of trim options and technology features.
- Fuel efficiency is a priority, and you're considering the RAV4 Hybrid or RAV4 Prime.
- You value a proven track record of reliability and dependability.
Search for a 2022 Toyota RAV4 on CarGurus
Choose the 2022 Toyota Highlander if:
- You need a midsize SUV with three-row seating and versatile configurations.
- Safety features are a top concern, and you appreciate a robust suite of driver-assist systems.
- You want a vehicle that covers the basics exceptionally well, with options for frugality, sportiness, or luxury.
Search for a 2022 Toyota Highlander on CarGurus
Related Topics:
