Skip to main content

Toyota dominates the small SUV vehicle segment. The Japanese automaker has held the small SUV throne for years. Even SUVs that have better specs and are more affordable can’t seem to outsell the mighty RAV4. How does it compare to one of its oldest rivals when it comes to final configurations? It’s time for 2023 Toyota RAV4 Limited vs. 2023 Honda CR-V EX-L.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Limited comes with all the bells and whistles

A white 2023 Toyota RAV4 small SUV is driving off-road.
The 2023 Toyota RAV4 | Toyota

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Limited starts at $36,580. It uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine to make 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. The RAV4 Limited achieves 27 miles per gallon in the city and 35 miles per gallon on the highway.

The small SUV comes standard with a smart key system on the front doors and liftgate, a leather-trimmed steering wheel, and heated/ventilated front seating. It also includes SofTex-trimmed seats, a blind-spot monitor, and hill-start assist control. The Toyota RAV4 Limited also features a tire pressure monitor system with individual tire location alerts, heated outside mirrors, and blue ambient illumination for in-dash shelves, center console cupholders, and in-front footwells.

Toyota’s fully loaded small SUV comes with plenty of creature comforts and advanced tech that justify its price. If you’re looking for the most well-equipped version of the world’s most popular SUV, the RAV4 Limited is the way to go. That being said, many publications argue that lower trim levels provide more value for the money. After all, folks that get the RAV4 are more concerned with affordability and practicality than luxury and comfort.

The 2023 Honda CR-V EX-L is loaded with goodies

A blue 2023 Honda CR-V small SUV is driving on the road.
The 2023 Honda CR-V | Honda

Honda and Toyota have been competing in the small SUV vehicle segment for decades. Toyota always seems to be one step ahead in terms of sales. While the CR-V has a strong following, it isn’t nearly as popular as the RAV4 (though some would argue it’s the better small SUV). Honda is bringing the heat in 2023 with a redesign. The CR-V nameplate is more competitive thanks to a bold new exterior, refined new interior, and plenty of great features.

The 2023 Honda CR-V EX-L is the final new CR-V configuration. It starts at $33,710. The small SUV uses a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine to make 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. It gets 28 miles per gallon in the city and 34 miles per gallon on the highway.

The CR-V EX-L comes standard with leather-trimmed seats, heated front seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. It also includes a wireless phone charger, parking sensors, and traffic sign recognition. The CR-V EX-L features adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a collision mitigation braking system as well.

2023 Toyota RAV4 Limited vs. 2023 Honda CR-V EX-L

A white 2023 Toyota RAV4 small SUV is driving off-road.
The 2023 Toyota RAV4 | Toyota

Toyota’s small SUV is more powerful than the Honda CR-V. Both small SUVs are efficient. The CR-V EX-L is more affordable than the RAV4 Limited by $2,870.

Honda’s small fully loaded SUV has a more exciting exterior and a more refined interior as a newly redesigned model. Toyota’s small SUV is due for a redesign. Ultimately, many drivers will choose the RAV4 Limited because Toyota’s model is the more popular model. The CR-V EX-L has a better value proposition as a more affordable, newly redesigned model. According to Car and Driver, the CR-V has a practical cabin and a smooth ride.

Related

3 Areas of Their Cars Toyota RAV4 Owners Like Most