2017 CR-V vs 2017 RAV4 in Greenville, NC

"V" is For Victory: The 2017 Honda CR-V versus the 2017 RAV4

It's a given that the Honda CR-V and the Toyota RAV4 are the two "big dogs" when it comes to compact crossover sales in the United States. What you might not realize, however, is that they are also two of the overall best-selling vehicles in America as well. That's right. America is currently caught in a crossover craze. In fact, at the time of this publication, the Honda CR-V is currently sitting on top of the entire sport utility market in the United States. Oops…did we just give away the winner in this head to head comparison? Perhaps. Read on to see what these two vehicles are like when reviewed side by side.

Which Is Better Looking?

The Honda CR-V underwent a complete redesign for the 2017 model year. Honda actually made the vehicle larger in size, but you might not notice this fact until you step inside. The CR-V's new look is rugged, yet sporty, and the addition of some redesigned LED lights on the front and back of the vehicle are a nice touch. The CR-V is technically classified as a compact crossover, but with the new design it appears more like a mid-size SUV that's capable of some serious off-road adventure.

The RAV4 last underwent a complete redesign in 2013, and it unfortunately becomes very apparent when compared to the CR-V. It's smaller in size compared to the CR-V and the styling is just plain overdue for a refresh.

The Verdict: CR-V's Exterior Is The Winner 

Honda CR-V

Toyota RAV4

Which Has The Better Interior?

As noted above, CR-V was totally redesigned for the 2017 model year and that includes the interior as well. Soft touch materials abound inside the CR-V cabin and there's plenty of cargo and passenger volume. The second row seats on the 2017 CR-V are also surprisingly spacious for a compact crossover.

The 2017 RAV4 interior suffers from the same fate as its exterior styling. It's old and dated looking with lesser quality materials throughout the cabin. It's also got less overall cargo and passenger volume than the CR-V interior. The RAV4 was no competition in this comparison segment.

The Verdict: CR-V's Interior Is The Winner

Who's Got More Giddy Up & Go?

Honda CR-V

Toyota RAV4

Which Has Better Technology?

Both these vehicles come packed with a wide array of tech features that are both fun and functional. The 2017 RAV4 comes standard with Bluetooth capability, six inch touch-screen, rearview camera system, keyless entry, six-speaker sound system, voice recognition software and more.

On the other side, the 2017 CR-V counters with four-speaker audio system, Bluetooth, rearview camera system, 5-inch display screen, Apple CarPlay ™, Android Auto™ and other features. The RAV4 doesn't have Apple CarPlay™ or Android Auto™ features, but looking at the totality of what each vehicle provides, this one is too close to call.

The Verdict: Technology Is A Tie with CR-V & RAV4

A Wise Long Term Investment

Which Crossover Comes Out on Top?

After comparing each of the vehicles side by side, it should be no surprise that we're recommending the 2017 Honda CR-V over the 2017 Toyota RAV4. Both vehicles are solid offerings, but the RAV4 suffers from outdated styling and interior deficiencies compared to the CR-V. We haven't even mentioned the fact that when comparing base MSRPs, the CR-V is also less expensive than RAV4. As noted earlier, America seems to agree with our consensus as the CR-V is currently the best-selling SUV model in America.

If you are interested in getting an up-close look at the 2017 Honda CR-V, then now is the time to visit Barbour Hendrick Honda Greenville. We have a great selection of new CR-V models to choose from at some of the lowest prices in the area. Contact us today to set up a test drive, and we look forward to seeing you at our dealership located at 3300 S Memorial Dr Greenville, NC 27834.

Comparisons based on 2017 Honda CR-V 2WD LX CVT versus 2017 RAV4 LE FWD.