We take a deep dive into the best alternatives to the legendary Toyota RAV4 and there’s something in this list for everyone.
It’s hard to trace the roots of the crossover trend we’re all deeply entrenched in today but they might go back to none other than the Toyota RAV4. The small upright model debuted in 1994 and sparked an entirely new segment. Today, it’s one of the biggest and most profitable segments but no longer is the RAV4 king of it. Let’s take a look at some of the best alternatives available right now.
Only the CR-V features a similar timeline to the RAV4 and today, it might be the best crossover on the market. Six generations deep it’s available with two powertrains including a hybrid. Front or all-wheel drive is on the menu and the CR-V also offers a classy interior with nearly class-leading space and 39.3 cubic feet of storage in the cargo area. Finally, the CR-V is full of great technology including an available 12-speaker sound system. It comes standard with automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control too.
The CX-50 is a dapper and dashing SUV that prioritizes driving engagement. The chassis is responsive, the pedals offer linear feedback, and the steering is precise and accurate. That’s true both on and off-road where the CX-50 handles gravel and dirt trails with ease. The cabin is probably the most luxurious of the cars on offer here too. Mazda offers a clever infotainment interface, great visibility, and several fun accessories for the CX-50 including a roof-top tent.
If off-roading is your thing, the Bronco Sport is worthy of consideration. Ford gave it a more off-road-focused AWD system and available all-terrain tires. We also like the standard 8-inch infotainment system that is available with a 10-speaker sound system from Bang & Olufsen. The Bronco Sport is also available with a 250 horsepower four-cylinder engine that gets up to 21 mpg in the city and 26 on the highway. Again, this is for those who plan to drive on or in the dirt almost as much as they do on the road itself.
The only German car on this list makes it here due to its low pricing and high interior quality. The Tiguan starts at just $30,305 and comes standard with an outstanding safety tech suite, sharp handling, and a great eight-speed automatic gearbox. The cabin features tight panel gaps, attractive styling, and great visibility. In addition, the Tiguan is available with three rows if you’re willing to sacrifice all-wheel drive.
The CX-5 might seem like a strange pick for two reasons. First, it’s kinda old, with its last refresh in 2017. Second, it’s pretty similar to the CX-50 so how did it get here? It’s unquestionably the best car here to drive and it leans even more into the luxury than the CX-50. Those qualities are high on our priority list so it gets the fifth spot. It’s available with two engines, but comes standard with rain-sensing wipers, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a 10.25-inch infotainment system. Those who want more can add leather upholstery, a heads-up display, heated rear seats, and a 10-speaker sound system.
Those of you looking to buy a car and keep it for several years do well to heavily favor the Tucson. It smashes every other car here when it comes to warranty coverage. Hyundai offers five-year bumper-to-bumper coverage along with a 10-year powertrain warranty. On top of that, it provides three years of complimentary maintenance. Buyers can select from gas-only, traditional hybrid, or plug-in hybrid powertrains. The cabin is the classiest here save for the entries from Mazda. It’s elegant with sweeping design cues and a very attractive infotainment system. Finally, the Tucson gets excellent safety tech like adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and emergency braking across the lineup.
If the Tucson makes this list, the Sportage deserves some credit too since the pair share a platform. The downside of the Kia is that it doesn’t get the same free maintenance as the Hyundai but it has a couple of upsides as well. First, it’s one of the more attractive vehicles here and the cabin looks super modern and fresh. Secondly, it tows up to 2,500 pounds which is more than most of the vehicles on this list. Those who tow often and like the upsides of the Tucson might be better off with a car like the Sportage. It also offers available hybrid power and a plug-in hybrid option with up to 34 miles of all-electric range.