2022 Toyota Sequoia vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia continued its long-standing second generation, which began in 2008, showcasing a mature design that had seen only incremental changes over the years. Its exterior maintained a classic appeal with a modestly sized grille, elegant wheel arches, and straight body lines, giving it a substantial presence. Despite its age, the Sequoia's interior was built with high-quality materials, though it appeared somewhat dated compared to modern SUVs, with a smaller 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.5-inch TFT driver information screen. The Nightshade Special Edition added a contemporary touch with darkened chrome and black-painted finishes, enhancing its visual appeal.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota RAV4, a product of a 2019 redesign, fit well within the current crossover design trends. Its exterior featured angular flourishes and expressive headlights, creating a playful yet aggressive look. Inside, the RAV4 boasted a layered dash with contrasting textures and colors, and a well-placed touchscreen interface. The Adventure-trim test vehicle highlighted the RAV4's attention to detail, with a geometric pattern tying the cabin together and 19-inch matte gray alloy wheels adding to its modern aesthetic.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia was powered by a 5.7-liter i-Force V8 engine, producing 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. This setup provided a robust and reliable performance, with a towing capacity of 7,400 pounds and a payload capacity of around 1,300 pounds. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, with ratings of 13 mpg city/17 mpg highway/15 mpg combined for RWD models. Despite its weight, the Sequoia offered a smooth and stable ride, with excellent off-road capabilities, thanks to its body-on-frame construction and four-wheel independent double-wishbone suspension.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered three powertrain options, with the gasoline-only model featuring a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. It came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and offered both FWD and AWD options. The RAV4 Hybrid and RAV4 Prime provided additional power and efficiency, with the Prime delivering 302 horsepower and an electric-only range of 42 miles. The RAV4's fuel economy was commendable, with the gasoline model achieving up to 30 mpg combined, while the Hybrid and Prime models offered even better efficiency. The RAV4's car-like handling and advanced suspension system contributed to its popularity among drivers.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia prioritized passenger comfort, offering spacious seating across all three rows and a range of convenience features like three-zone climate control and a power moonroof. Its cargo space was versatile, with 18.9 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 120.1 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded flat. The Sequoia's interior storage options were plentiful, with a large center console, glove compartment, and door pockets.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, while classified as a small SUV, provided ample cargo space with 37.5 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 69.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. It offered a healthy payload capacity and towing capabilities, with Adventure and TRD Off-Road models able to tow up to 3,500 pounds. Inside, the RAV4 was roomy and comfortable, with plenty of storage options and seating for up to five passengers.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia's technology offerings were somewhat outdated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.5-inch TFT driver information screen. However, it included standard features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, WiFi connectivity, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The Limited trim added navigation and a 12-speaker audio system, with an optional premium audio package available. Despite its lack of modern powertrain technology, the Sequoia featured LED exterior lighting and standard safety features like a rear backup camera and parking sonar.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came equipped with a robust set of technology features, including a 7-inch touchscreen, six-speaker audio system, and smartphone integration. Higher trims offered a 9-inch touchscreen and an 11-speaker JBL audio system with navigation. The RAV4 Prime showcased advanced technology with multiple USB ports, auxiliary power outlets, and a wireless charging pad. It also offered a bird’s-eye view camera system and a head-up display on top trims.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia lacked crash-test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS but was equipped with a comprehensive set of safety features. The Toyota Safety Sense P suite included a pre-collision system, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and automatic high beams. Additional safety features included a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and a full complement of airbags and crumple zones.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 received high safety ratings, with the RAV4 Prime earning a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS and a five-star rating from NHTSA. It came standard with Toyota’s Star Safety System and Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which included a pre-collision system, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and more. Higher trims added features like a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking assist with automatic braking.