2024 Toyota RAV4 vs 2025 Hyundai Kona

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 was designed to project a rugged and aggressive demeanor, with its frowning front and angular gray body cladding. Despite its tough exterior, the performance did not quite match the visual promise, as the dual exhaust outlets were more for show than go. The TRD Off-Road model, priced at $38,295 plus a $1,350 destination charge, featured Army Green paint and additional options that brought the total to $41,925. The RAV4's interior was utilitarian, with easy-clean surfaces and practical storage solutions, though higher trims offered more luxurious touches.

In contrast, the 2025 Hyundai Kona maintained its fresh and distinctive appearance, with a sleek single-piece grille and ultra-slim LED light bars. The Kona's design was futuristic, and its increased size over previous models provided more interior space and a stronger road presence. The N Line S and N Line trims offered sportier aesthetics with body-colored bumpers and cladding. The interior remained unchanged from 2024, featuring solid construction and ample tech, with 64-color ambient lighting now standard on higher trims. The Kona's design and features made it a standout in the crossover class.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. This engine required high revs to access its full power, and the eight-speed automatic transmission powered the front wheels, with an optional torque-vectoring AWD system. The TRD Off-Road model included AWD, off-road suspension tuning, and all-terrain tires. Despite its off-road enhancements, the RAV4's ground clearance and approach angles were not significantly improved. The RAV4's fuel economy was rated at 28 mpg combined, with the test vehicle averaging 26.6 mpg.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona offered two gas-powered engine options. The SE, SEL, and SEL Convenience trims featured a 2.0-liter engine with 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, paired with an IVT. The N Line S, N Line, and Limited trims had a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine with 190 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. AWD was available for an additional $1,500, providing a more sophisticated ride with a multi-link rear suspension. The Kona's performance was adequate for its class, with the turbo engine offering a broader torque band.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 prioritized practicality and utility, with numerous storage options and oversized control knobs. The TRD Off-Road trim featured SofTex upholstery and an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat. Optional packages added heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and rain-sensing wipers. The RAV4 comfortably seated four adults, with a spacious cargo area offering 37.6 cubic feet, expandable to 69.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona provided 25.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 63.7 cubic feet with the rear seats down. Rear legroom measured 38.2 inches, with 38.3 inches of headroom. The front seats offered a generous range of movement, and the steering wheel was adjustable for reach and height. The Kona's interior featured excellent storage options, with various shelves and compartments. Upholstery varied by trim, with heated and ventilated front seats available on higher trims.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 featured the Toyota Audio Multimedia system with an 8-inch or optional 10.5-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and SiriusXM. Connected services included Service Connect and Safety Connect for ten years, with Remote Connect and Drive Connect free for one year. The system offered a cloud-based navigation system and a digital voice assistant. However, the lack of a multi-panel Home screen and some voice assistant issues were noted.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona came with a 12.3-inch central touchscreen across all trims, offering wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Higher trims included wireless smartphone charging and a digital key. The SEL Convenience trim and above featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The Kona offered a Bose premium audio system on higher trims, with SiriusXM and HD Radio standard. Hyundai's Bluelink connectivity allowed for over-the-air updates.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 included Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, with adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist. However, the base LE trim lacked blind-spot monitoring. The RAV4's safety features were adequate, but it lost its Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS due to lower ratings in recent crash tests.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona impressed with its standard safety features, including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and Blind-Spot Collision Warning. Higher trims added Highway Driving Assist and enhanced collision avoidance. The Kona included six airbags and electronic stability control, earning a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS.