2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid vs 2026 Mazda CX-30

The 2026 Mazda CX-30 was offered in eight trim levels, all featuring a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive. The trims ranged from the base S to the Turbo Premium Plus, with prices spanning from $27,870 to $39,395, including destination charges. The S Aire Edition, priced at $33,130, was noted for its premium appearance, featuring blacked-out exterior trim, white artificial leather upholstery, and suede-like dashboard trim. The Aero Gray paint option was particularly praised for its contrast with the black exterior details, enhancing the upscale look of the CX-30. Despite its premium feel, the Mazda Connect infotainment system posed a learning curve, though it became intuitive over time.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid was available in the Rugged Woodland trim and three Sport grades, including the SE, XSE, and the exclusive GR Sport. The RAV4 maintained the same footprint as its predecessor, with the Woodland and GR Sport trims slightly extending its length. The design embraced a boxy, truck-like presence, with features like daytime running lights, a rear roof spoiler, and vertical taillights. The Woodland trim emphasized off-road capability with all-terrain tires and a roof rack, while the GR Sport showcased racier elements like red brake calipers and a wide mesh grille. The interior offered a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a touchscreen system, with the GR Sport providing enhanced handling and performance features.

The 2026 Mazda CX-30 featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine across all models, with higher trims offering a turbocharged version. The standard engine produced 186 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, while the turbocharged variant delivered 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular gas, or 250 hp and 320 lb-ft on premium. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and Mazda’s i-Activ AWD system. The CX-30 achieved a combined fuel economy of 27 mpg with the standard engine and 25 mpg with the turbo. During testing, the naturally aspirated S Aire Edition averaged 28.5 mpg on a mixed driving loop. The CX-30 was praised for its engaging driving dynamics, aided by G-Vectoring Control Plus technology and a brake-based limited-slip differential, making it a fun and rewarding SUV to drive.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid boasted an updated 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine, producing 186 horsepower, paired with a larger 22.7-kwh battery pack. The PHEV's total power output increased to 324 hp, making it the most powerful RAV4 to date. It featured standard all-wheel drive, with a front motor rated at 203 hp and 201 lb-ft of torque. The RAV4 PHEV offered an estimated electric range of 52 miles. In EV mode, it provided smooth acceleration, while Auto mode combined the engine and motors for a 0-60 mph time in the low five seconds. The GR Sport trim, with its lower ground clearance and performance tires, delivered enhanced handling and reduced body roll. Despite its heavier weight, the RAV4 PHEV maintained a spirited ride without compromising comfort.

The 2026 Mazda CX-30 faced some challenges in practicality and utility. Its high ground clearance was offset by small door openings, making entry and exit difficult. The back seat was tight for adults, and the cargo area was small for the segment, offering 20.2 cubic feet of space, expandable to 45.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The front seats were comfortable but snug, with only the driver's seat offering height adjustment. The air conditioning system struggled in hot weather, and rear USB charging ports were absent. However, the CX-30 provided reasonable front storage space and a spare tire under the cargo floor.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid retained its dimensions from the previous generation, optimizing interior space with clever storage features. The base SE trim included a power driver’s seat, heated front seats, and five USB ports. The interior offered adequate passenger space, with 37.8 inches of rear legroom, though it fell short of larger rivals. The cargo area measured 33.6 cubic feet, expandable to 63.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The RAV4 PHEV featured deep door pockets, multiple storage shelves, and a temporary spare tire under the cargo floor.

The 2026 Mazda CX-30's infotainment system, Mazda Connect, offered two screen sizes and varying functionality. The base S trim included an 8.8-inch display with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while higher trims featured a 10.25-inch screen with touchscreen functionality for smartphone integration. A 12-speaker Bose premium sound system was available on top trims. However, the native Mazda Connect system was only accessible via a center console knob, which was initially distracting. The voice recognition technology was limited, but Apple CarPlay and Android Auto provided better alternatives.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid featured a new 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and an enhanced 10.5-inch touchscreen system, with a larger 12.9-inch touchscreen on top trims. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with customizable tiles and improved graphics. Toyota's new operating system, Arene, enhanced responsiveness and voice assistant capabilities. The RAV4 PHEV also offered a built-in dash cam and a feature to locate chargers along the route, providing comprehensive technological support.

The 2026 Mazda CX-30 impressed with its standard and available safety features, earning favorable crash-test ratings. Standard driver assistance systems included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added features like parking sensors, rear automatic braking, and a surround-view camera system. The CX-30 received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick+" award from the IIHS.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 4.0, offering a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features. The system included automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitors, and a safe-exit alert. All but the base SE trim featured a surround-view camera system. The RAV4's safety enhancements aimed to improve its already strong safety record, with crash-testing results pending from the IIHS and NHTSA.