The 2020 RAV4 is the latest midsize SUV model released in Toyota‘s catalog. But does it deserve the same amount of praise previous models received? While it may remain as a high-quality vehicle, other models on the market offer an arguably better experience in the SUV catalog. Continue reading the learn more about the 2020 RAV4 and how it compares to other top-ranking SUVs.

2020 Toyota RAV4 ranks among the best

U.S. News has the 2020 RAV4 ranked No. 5 on their “Best Compact SUVs for 2020” list. With a number five spot, Toyota should be proud of its ability to release a top-tier SUV. Likewise, they were able to improve upon the 2019 model, landing it two spots higher on U.S. News‘ rankings. Other notable awards for the 2020 RAV4 include Best Cars for the Money, Best Cars for the Family, and Best Vehicle Brand.

Some of the RAV4’s distinct features include a comfortable, high-class interior cabin, which provides more than an ample amount of space. It also features exceptional fuel economy, getting 27 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. The RAV4 also comes equipped with a slew of top-of-the-line safety features such as pre-collision systems, cruise control, steering assist, and lane departure alert. 

Although the 2020 RAV4 is a first-class SUV, a distinct strength to the 2019 model is its affordability. The 2020 RAV4 has a high base price. Starting at $25,850 for the base model, the Off-Road RAV4 costs $35,180, which is quite high for compact SUVs. Another distinct complaint comes from reports that the 2020 model becomes quite loud under heavy throttle, which could be of annoyance to some drivers.

Other SUVs ranked ahead of the 2020 RAV4

Even though a number five spot is a terrific rating, U.S. News believes other vehicles are better than the 2020 RAV4. At the top of the list is the 2020 Honda CR-V.  The CR-V has been a constant rival in the compact SUV category. The CR-V has higher gas mileage and offers a turbocharged engine, which gives it that little “boost.” Not to mention, the vehicle sports a roomier interior as well as a larger cargo hold. It also holds a higher safety score.

Behind the CR-V is the Mazda CX-5 at the number two spot. The 2020 CX-5 does a little less in gas mileage than the 2020 RAV4. However, the CX-5 sports luxury interior that provides maximum comfortability.  The vehicle also has incredible handling and best-in-line safety features. Not to mention, all the vehicle’s tech features are super user-friendly and easy to use.

At three and four are the 2020 Kia Sport and Ford Escape, respectively. Both are impressive vehicles and deserve their respective rankings. Both provide top-of-the-line handling and comfortability. And not to forget, the 2020 Escape has a stellar reliability rating, while the Kia Sport has an intuitively simple infotainment system that adds to the quality of the vehicle.

The verdict

All and all, Toyota’s 2020 RAV4 is a  great vehicle. There is a reason why it is one of the best selling compact SUVs on the market. Its fuel economy is second to none and comes equipped with all of the best safety features. If the price is not an issue, the RAV is the ideal vehicle for any family to have. 

However, if you are looking for something with a little less of a price tag, consider the less pricey CR-V. The CR-V matches the RAV4 in quality and safety. Not to mention, the compact SUV class is an incredibly competitive segment. There are other SUVs out there that provide quieter cabins and engines that pack a bigger punch.