2024 Toyota RAV4 vs 2023 Honda Pilot

The 2023 Honda Pilot underwent a complete redesign, presenting a more rugged and substantial appearance. Its upright grille and boxier styling contributed to a larger overall size, with the new model being 3.4 inches longer, up to 1.5 inches wider, and 0.8 inches taller than its predecessor. These changes complemented the all-terrain-capable TrailSport model, which featured legitimate off-road enhancements such as a one-inch taller ride height, unique 18-inch wheels, chunky all-terrain tires, and underbody skid plates. The interior adopted a more conventional styling, maintaining attractiveness while enhancing functionality and versatility. The materials quality met class expectations, and the overall design emphasized function over form without sacrificing appeal.

In contrast, the 2024 Toyota RAV4 aimed to project a tougher image than its capabilities suggested. Its aggressive angularity and dual exhaust outlets hinted at performance, while upper trims featured fake skid plates and utility-style roof racks. The TRD Off-Road model, priced at $38,295 plus a destination charge, included features like a digital rearview mirror and advanced technology packages. The RAV4's interior focused on practicality, with utility-driven design elements such as storage shelves and rubberized control knobs. The TRD Off-Road model offered SofTex artificial leather upholstery and optional weather packages for added comfort. The RAV4's cabin comfortably accommodated four adults, with a cargo area expanding from 37.6 to 69.8 cubic feet when the seats were folded.

The 2023 Honda Pilot was equipped with a new 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available on all models and standard on the Elite and TrailSport trims. The Pilot offered quick initial acceleration and adequate power, with a soft brake pedal for smooth stops. While not encouraging sporty driving, the Pilot handled corners confidently, with noticeable body roll but no alarming rebounds. The TrailSport model increased ground clearance by an inch and featured all-terrain tires, adding a subtle vibration on pavement but enhancing off-road capabilities without sacrificing on-road comfort.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The TRD Off-Road model came with standard all-wheel drive, off-road suspension tuning, and all-terrain tires. Multi-Terrain Select offered various driving modes, but the TRD Off-Road shared the same ground clearance as other RAV4 models. While capable off-pavement, it was not as robust as a 4Runner. The off-road suspension improved daily commute comfort, and the RAV4's steering and brakes were well-tuned for its purpose. The engine, though powerful for its class, was loud and unrefined. The TRD Off-Road model achieved an EPA rating of 28 mpg combined, with a test average of 26.6 mpg.

The 2023 Honda Pilot's interior was more conventional compared to other new Honda models, offering a handy dash shelf for the front passenger. The entry-level trims featured a seven-inch infotainment touchscreen, while higher trims upgraded to a nine-inch display. The Pilot provided logical placement of primary controls, a large rubberized shelf for phones, and a wireless charging pad. Clever storage solutions included a stowable second-row center seat, allowing for a center pass-through to the third row. The second row offered ample space for adults, while the third row was less inviting but suitable for short trips. Cargo capacity ranged from 22.4 cubic feet behind the third row to a maximum of 114.3 cubic feet.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4's interior emphasized practicality, with storage shelves, trays, and oversized control knobs. The TRD Off-Road trim featured SofTex upholstery and optional weather packages for added comfort. The RAV4 accommodated four adults comfortably, with a rear seat offering good legroom and footroom. The cargo area provided 37.6 cubic feet of space, expanding to 69.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. The RAV4's design focused on utility, with features like rear air conditioning vents, USB charging ports, and a fold-down center armrest with cupholders.

The 2023 Honda Pilot's EX-L trim and higher offered a larger infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless phone charger, and USB ports in every row. Higher trims included a multi-view camera system, with the Elite trim adding a head-up display and a fully digital instrument panel. The infotainment system was functional, with quick responses and a logical layout. Features like Honda's CabinTalk and a navigation system were available on higher trims, along with a Bose premium audio system and a Wi-Fi hotspot.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 featured the Toyota Audio Multimedia system with an 8-inch or available 10.5-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Connected services included Service Connect and Safety Connect for ten years, Remote Connect for one year, and Drive Connect for one year. The system offered a cloud-based navigation system, digital voice assistant, and concierge services. Wi-Fi Connect transformed the RAV4 into an internet hotspot. While sophisticated, the system had some usability issues, such as the lack of a multi-panel Home screen and difficulty exiting Apple CarPlay. The test vehicle lacked the JBL premium audio system and panoramic surround-view camera.

The 2023 Honda Pilot had not yet received crash test results from the NHTSA, but Honda expected top scores. It received a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. Standard Honda Sensing safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and more. Higher trims added low-speed automatic braking and parking sensors. The TrailSport and Elite trims featured surround-view and multi-view camera systems. The advanced safety features functioned well, with no false alarms experienced during testing.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems. However, the base LE trim lacked a blind-spot monitoring system with rear cross-traffic alert. TSS 2.5 was adequate, with adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist performing better on straighter highways. The system worked well overall, but the RAV4 lost its Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS due to Marginal and Acceptable ratings in recent crash tests. These results highlighted the need for an updated RAV4 design.