Toyota has a strong reputation for manufacturing the most reliable and durable SUVs on the market. The Corolla Cross and the Rav4 SUV are among its statement SUVs. While the automaker has a long lineup of vehicles, the Corolla Cross has left its mark on the market. Launched in the summer of 2022, the Toyota Corolla Cross is the newest kid on the block in the Toyota line of SUVs. Conversely, the Rav4, one of Toyota's bestsellers, is an efficient and practical SUV that's great for families. The RAV4 maintains its legacy with practical driving capabilities, an affordable base price across all trim levels, and a roomy storage compartment. Its engine features a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder motor with an eight-speed automatic gearbox that powers its AWD editions. The Rav4 also boasts excellent fuel economy.
Despite all of this, the Corolla Cross still gives the Rav4 a run for the money. The Corolla Cross is a better option for people who want a top-of-the-line SUV on a budget. But the Cross doesn't just edge out the Rave4 in pricing. The Cross is also said to have better performance, design, safety, and fuel economy. Does that make the Corolla Cross better than the Rav4?
Toyota Corolla Cross vs. Rav4: Performance Comparison
When it comes to performance, both vehicles are excellent considerations, but there are a few differences to keep in mind. The Rav4 can be had with 3 different engines, the plug-in hybrid, the hybrid, and the base 2.5L four-cylinder engine. In base form, it produces 203 horsepower and 165 pound-feet of torque and has a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. On the other hand, the Corolla Cross has a two-engine range, including the hybrid and 2.5L four-cylinder engine. It produces 169 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque and has a towing capacity of 1500 pounds. Both vehicles can be had with AWD.
If you're an adrenaline-seeking driver considering off-roading with your SUV, the RAV4 is your best bet. It is offered with TRD (Toyota Racing Development) performance parts, and there's an Adventure Edition, both of which are specifically designed for off-road trips and a higher ground clearance ideal for rugged terrain. The Toyota Cross, however, does not have the power performance of the RAV4 for offroading trips; hence, it's best suited for your regular on-road driving. Finally,
Toyota Corolla Cross vs. Rav4: Safety Comparison
Toyota is reputed for manufacturing a safe, durable line of compact SUVs. The Corolla Cross and RAV4 are no exception, as both vehicles were built on advanced technology and robust platforms.
Being a newer model, the Corolla Cross is built on the TNGA GA-C platform. It is equipped with safety driving features, and the base models come with the Toyota Safety Sense Package, which consists of a lane keep assist, hill assist control, a backup camera, and nine airbags.
On the other hand, the RAV4 is built on the TNGA GA-K platform, a robust unibody chassis. The RAV4 also has the Toyota Safety Sense Package and a Star Safety System. But it's only available in higher trims. This earned the RAV4 the coveted "Top Safety Pick" from the IIHS. Overall, both SUVs have excellent safety features, but the Corolla Cross comes out on top because of its stronger, newer platform and a wider range of safety features available for its base modelThe RAV4's higher safety rating is enough to earn a bragging right in this category.
Toyota Corolla Cross vs. Rav4: Technology Comparison
It can be difficult to say when deciding on the SUV with the better technology because the Rav4 and Corolla Cross come with impressive technological features. The infotainment systems for both SUVs are straightforward and equipped with a 7.0-inch display that can be upgraded to an 8.0-inch display for higher trims. Both SUVs have standard features like SiriusXM satellite radio, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. If you want a premium listening experience, an optional JBL premium audio system is available. And if you can't deal with wires, a wireless smartphone charging pad is an optional add-on.
Whichever SUV you choose, you'll enjoy a vehicle that offers an impressive balance of technological features, comfort, and safety. With either option, you'll have a reliable and enjoyable driving experience that will keep you connected and entertained.
Toyota Corolla Cross vs. Rav4: Fuel Economy
The fuel economy of the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is superior; however, in the case of gas-powered engines, the RAV4 and Corolla Cross's fuel economy performances are on par. The Corolla Cross has an edge with better city gas mileage, while the RAV4 boasts an additional one or two gas mileage on the highway. So, deciding the better option here depends on what you plan to use your car for. If you do a lot of highway driving, the RAV4 is a go-to option. But, if you do a lot of city driving, the Cross is a better deal.
2023 SUV Model | Engine Type | Gas Mileage |
RAV 4 Hybrid | 2.5L - 4Cylinder | 41/38 MPG |
RAV 4 AWD | 2.5L - 4Cyliner | 25/33 MPG |
RAV 4 FWD | 2.5L - 4Cylinder | 27/35 MPG |
Cross AWD | 2.0L - 4Cyliner | 29/32 MPG |
Cross FWD | 2.0L - 4Cyliner | 31/33 MPG |
Toyota Corolla Cross vs. Rav4: Pricing
The base price for the Corolla Cross is $23,060, while the base price for RAV4 is $27,975. On the surface, the Cross seems like the budget-friendly option, but that's not always the case when it comes to pricing. And that's because the subject of pricing is relative. The better way to look at it would be based on preference, as both SUVs have unique features that meet the needs of Toyota brand loyalists.
Is the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross Better Than The Rav4?
The Toyota Corolla Cross is not necessarily better than the Rav4. When we compared both vehicles based on performance, the RAV4 came out on top. For safety, the Cross had a slight edge. In the area of technology and entertainment, there was no clear winner as both SUVs has identical features. For Gas Mileage, there was no outright winner because while the Cross performed better in the City, the RAV4 completely aced on the highways. When it comes to pricing, again, as we pointed out, it's a question of individual preference, so for this one, we'd split the spoils evenly for both SUVs. At the end of the day, it's all about the user. What do you want? If you want a better performance, rugged, top-of-line SUV, the RAV4 is for you. However, if safety and fuel economy is your concern, the Cross should be at the top of your list. In conclusion, the better car would all boil down to personal preference.