2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid vs 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid initially presented a bold and distinctive design, with its blunt and bulbous nose giving it an aggressive appearance. Over time, however, this look became more familiar and less striking. The black windshield pillars created a floating roof effect, while the swollen haunches attempted to balance the design. Despite the availability of 20-inch wheels on higher trims, the overall styling felt overwhelmed by the cartoonishly-flared quarter panels. The interior offered a two-tone look with leather upholstery in higher trims, but the dashboard's asymmetrical design and glossy black detailing suffered from reflections. The mix of illumination colors in the gauges added to a busy appearance.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid maintained a tough yet practical exterior. Despite being fully loaded, it resembled a standard rental car model, lacking the larger wheels of its non-hybrid counterpart. The interior was stylish and functional, with a blend of quality materials and some hard plastics. The RAV4 Hybrid's cabin provided comfort with heated and ventilated seats, and the dashboard layout was intuitive. Storage was ample, with useful shelves and a spacious cargo area. The RAV4 Hybrid's design was more understated but practical, appealing to those seeking functionality over flair.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid transitioned from a V6 engine to a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, achieving an EPA rating of 36 mpg combined. With 243 horsepower, it offered adequate power but lacked excitement, especially when climbing hills or accelerating hard. The steering felt lifeless, and the ride was soft, leading to unwanted body movement. While it handled well on smooth roads, it struggled with bumps and dips. The Highlander Hybrid excelled in fuel efficiency but was not particularly enjoyable to drive.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with electric motors, producing 219 horsepower. It offered lively acceleration due to instant electric-motor torque, though the engine sounded unpleasant when revving. The RAV4 Hybrid achieved 40 mpg in combined driving, with a smooth CVT and effective regenerative braking. The steering was well-weighted, and the suspension provided a comfortable ride. While not thrilling, the RAV4 Hybrid was agreeable to drive, with decent off-road capability thanks to its ground clearance and Trail mode.

The Highlander Hybrid Limited offered roomy front seats with power adjustments and leather upholstery. The second-row bench seat increased capacity to eight but felt narrow, and the third-row seat was uncomfortable with limited legroom. Cargo space was generous, with 84.3 cubic feet available when the third row was folded. However, storage solutions were less accommodating than previous models, and the wireless charger blocked access to the storage area.

The RAV4 Hybrid provided comfort with an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat and heated and ventilated front seats. Rear-seat legroom was decent, and the backrest reclined slightly. The dashboard was well-organized, with large climate control knobs and easy-to-use infotainment. Cargo space was ample, with 69.8 cubic feet available when the rear seats were folded. Storage was practical, with useful shelves and cupholders.

The Highlander Hybrid came with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, JBL audio system, and various connected services. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with large knobs and shortcut buttons. However, the sound system's quality varied, and the voice recognition system couldn't adjust climate settings. Driver Easy Speak and a video rearview mirror were notable features.

The RAV4 Hybrid featured an 8-inch display with JBL audio, dynamic navigation, and voice recognition. The infotainment system was intuitive, with shortcut buttons and a responsive voice recognition system. Camera-based technology included a 360-degree camera system and rearview camera mirror, enhancing safety and convenience.

The Highlander Hybrid included Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, with features like intersection support and emergency steering assistance. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available on higher trims. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance had some quirks, but overall, the safety systems were effective. The Highlander received a five-star NHTSA rating and was expected to achieve a "Top Safety Pick+" from the IIHS.

The RAV4 Hybrid came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping systems. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic warning were standard on most trims. The safety systems were generally effective, though the adaptive cruise control allowed too much space in traffic. The RAV4 Hybrid earned a five-star NHTSA rating and top marks from the IIHS, except for its headlights.