2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2023 Toyota RAV4

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling cues from the Tacoma pickup, featuring a trapezoidal grille and upright fascia that gave it a rugged look. However, its side profile introduced a swooping character line that added unnecessary visual weight, making it appear somewhat bloated. The rear design echoed the front grille, but the overall aesthetic felt disjointed compared to more cohesive competitors like the Kia Telluride. Inside, the Highlander Hybrid's asymmetrical dash and metallic styling elements provided a unique yet functional design, though the fabric seat upholstery in the Bronze Edition was less practical, attracting dirt and stains.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota RAV4 maintained its 2019 design, with the Adventure and TRD Off-Road trims standing out due to their aggressive styling. The Adventure trim featured blacked-out wheels and orange interior accents, adding a rugged yet stylish touch. The interior offered practical storage solutions, and the RAV4's overall design leaned towards a truck-like nature. While not as premium as the Toyota Venza, the RAV4 provided a balanced mix of style and functionality, appealing to those seeking a more adventurous look.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine producing 243 horsepower, paired with a CVT. It offered standard FWD, with an optional AWD system that engaged an electric motor for the rear axle. The Highlander Hybrid reached 60 mph in just over 8 seconds, slightly slower than its gasoline-only counterparts. The hybrid powertrain provided a smooth ride, with the electric motors offering initial acceleration before the gasoline engine took over. The ride quality was soft, and the cabin remained quiet, except when the engine was pushed hard.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. While not particularly exciting, it offered a reliable performance. The Adventure trim, with its AWD and all-season tires, was more of a style statement than an off-road performer. The TRD Off-Road trim, however, included all-terrain tires and a TRD-tuned suspension for better off-road capability. The RAV4's performance was adequate for daily driving, though it lacked the pep of some competitors.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid offered well-cushioned front seats with ample adjustments, though the driver's door armrest was awkwardly positioned. Storage options were plentiful, with trays and bins for personal items. The second-row seats provided generous space and comfort, with sliding and reclining options. The third row was less accommodating, suitable for children or short trips. Cargo space was 16 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 84.3 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 seated five, with 37.7 inches of front headroom and 39.5 inches in the rear. Legroom was 41 inches in the front and 37.8 inches in the back. The RAV4 offered practical storage, including a shelf along the glove compartment and large door pockets. Cargo space was 37.5 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 69.8 cubic feet with seats folded, placing it mid-pack among competitors.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option for higher trims. The system was responsive, with logical menus and physical shortcut buttons. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. Higher trims offered navigation and an 11-speaker JBL audio system.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 introduced a new infotainment system with an 8.0-inch standard touchscreen, upgraded to 10.5 inches for Limited and TRD Off-Road trims. It supported OTA updates and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Adventure trim included an 11-speaker JBL audio system. A 7-inch driver-information display was standard, with a 12.3-inch option for higher trims.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid received a five-star NHTSA rating and was an IIHS Top Safety Pick+. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. The systems generally worked well but needed some fine-tuning.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 came with TSS 2.5, including lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. It earned a 2023 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award. The updated safety suite offered improved features like Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.