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Let’s face it, the 2024 Toyota RAV4 doesn’t have the same luster as older models. It’s still popular, but it’s not as high on the list of the best small SUVs. The new model has much lower ratings across the board than other recent examples. Unfortunately, this is also the case for the 2023 Toyota RAV4. Luckily, the Kia Sportage and the Honda CR-V are solid options.

Here are two compact SUVs with better ratings than the 2024 Toyota RAV4.

Is the Toyota RAV4 still one of the best small SUVs?

The Toyota RAV4 was recently the darling of the small SUV segment. It was never particularly special, but it was a reliable and decently inexpensive option. Now, the 2024 Toyota RAV4 gets average ratings across the board from J.D. Power. It has an overall 78 out of 100, which isn’t bad but doesn’t do much to inspire confidence when there are much better options on the market.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 and the 2023 Toyota RAV4 are less reliable
2024 Toyota RAV4 | Toyota

The still popular 2024 Toyota RAV4 gets a 76 out of 100 in quality and reliability. Again, not bad, but most would expect a higher rating for a Toyota SUV. The 2024 Toyota RAV4 is also only ‘average’ in driving experience and dealership experience. The only ‘great’ rating it has is for resale value, which is a pretty big win for any vehicle these days. The 2023 Toyota RAV4 also has fairly low ratings.

However, the 2024 Toyota RAV4 does provide a comfortable interior. It seats up to five and has 37.5 cubic feet of cargo storage in the back. The new RAV4 has a starting price tag of $28,675.

The new Kia Sportage is a solid option

2024 Kia Sportage
2024 Kia Sportage | Kia

People often overlook the Kia Sportage. However, this is a vehicle that has solid ratings. It has an overall 83 out of 100 from the marketing research firm. Additionally, it’s more reliable than the 2024 Toyota RAV4 as it has an 83 out of 100 in the category. It even has a higher resale value than the Toyota SUV.

The 2024 Kia Sportage also has a solid use of interior technology. It comes standard with an eight-inch touchscreen. However, buyers can upgrade it to a 12.3-inch unit. The 2024 Kia Sportage can also fit 40 cubic feet of cargo in the back. It starts at $27,190.

The 2024 Honda CR-V is a great SUV

The new Honda CR-V is also an option to consider over the 2024 Toyota RAV4. Regarding rankings, it has an overall 82 out of 100. This is also one of the best small SUVs because it has ‘great’ ratings in all but dealership experience. However, it’s not as highly regarded as the 2024 Kia Sportage. It comes standard with a seven-inch touchscreen, but higher trims have a nine-inch.

This is also a spacious and well-appointed SUV. Regarding cargo storage, buyers get 39 cubic feet with the gas-only models. The 2024 Honda CR-V starts at $29,500.