There are two models that have been competing against one another for years in the fight for the best compact SUV. The two contenders are the 2023 Honda CR-V and the 2023 Toyota RAV4. Both are popular, reasonably priced, dependable, and get good gas mileage, but what distinguishes the Honda CR-V from the Toyota RAV4?
1. Complete redesign of the Honda CR-V in 2023
This small Honda SUV enters a new generation with the 2023 model year. The CR-V has a new look and an answer to prior customer concerns thanks to its revised design and construction. On the other hand, the RAV4 is the same as it was in 2019 with no major updates.
2. The 2023 Toyota RAV4 A is smaller than the new Honda SUV
The Honda CR-V from 2023 is the result of a rebuild. With an increase of four inches in overall length and 1.6 inches in wheelbase, this new version boasts more room for passengers and transporting items than the previous model. Additionally, the CR-V has a slightly wider body than before, which gives it a steadier stance on the road.
When compared to the Toyota SUV, the Honda SUV's overall interior space is outstanding. The RAV4 has an interior volume of 98.9 cubic feet, whereas the CR-V has 103.5 cubic feet. The Honda CR-V's cargo space behind the back seats is 39.3 cubic feet larger than the Toyota RAV4's, which is 37.6 cubic feet.
Watch our video on the Honda CR-V
3. The 2023 Honda CR-V has body-stabilizing seating
To provide more practical cargo room, the former Magic Seats of earlier Honda models were designed to fold up against the back of the front seats.
The front seats in the new CR-V come with body-stabilizing features as standard. With additional amenities available on higher levels, these chairs are supportive and comfy. The driver's seat in the EX and Sport variants has 10-way power adjustment, and the interior is upholstered in fabric. If you upgrade to the EX-L or Touring grades, the driver's seat will have leather upholstery and lumbar support. The front passenger seat has a 4-way power adjustment on these higher grades.
4. Honda’s infotainment is better than Toyota in these compact SUVs
Sure, both the CR-V and the RAV4 got a refresh for 2023. But who did a better job? Honda’s CR-V wins this one. Why? On the CR-V the infotainment is packed with features and the best part is that it is user friendly and intuitive to use. Meanwhile, the RAV4 makes the driver work to find different controls and locks down things like sound system changes.
3 standout features on the infotainment on the Honda CRV:
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There are 3 different views of the backup camera
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Easily calibrate your tire pressure when the temperature changes (if there’s a TPMS warning)
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Change the safety features (blind spot monitoring, lane departure,etc) with the touch a few buttons
5. Honda is that the CR-V's is better equipped than the RAV4.
Even the entry-level CR-V has this clean, contemporary design. Along with the higher interior quality, the 2023 Honda CR-V has more options than the RAV4, some of which are optional. Honda CR-V's base grade is well-equipped with features that are unusual for the compact SUV class. Some highlights that come standard on the Honda CR-V are:
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Dual-zone automatic temperature controls
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Moonroof is standard on models EX and above
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Front chairs with heated sets
Not only has Honda made the CR-V bigger and more formidable, the ride is more comfortable and with features like an intuitive infotainment system and standard heated front seats, it’s clear that this compact SUV is a winner for anyone in Eatonton or Milledgeville looking for a reliable, affordable SUV with excellent gas mileage. Check out our inventory of Honda CR-Vs here.
