Following Toyota’s decision to discontinue the gas RAV4 powertrain, the 2026 Toyota RAV4 will be offered only as a standard small hybrid SUV. One of its fiercest rivals is the 2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid.
Both Japanese automakers produce practical family SUVs that deliver solid gas mileage thanks to electric motors. Here’s how the RAV4 and CR-V Hybrid compare on price, specifications, standard features and more.
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Is a Value-Oriented Family SUV
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 is a completely redesigned compact SUV ushering in the nameplate’s sixth generation. It introduces new exterior styling, an updated interior design and a standard hybrid powertrain.
Toyota’s small hybrid SUV starts at $31,900. It uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motors to produce 226 horsepower. The RAV4 achieves 47 miles per gallon in the city and 40 miles per gallon on the highway.
It has strong fuel economy for its segment and 37.8 cubic feet of cargo space. Toyota’s small hybrid SUV is affordable, spacious enough for small families and has a long history of reliability.
The 2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid Prioritizes Comfort
Honda still offers a gas version of its CR-V small SUV, but its hybrid iteration gets better gas mileage and delivers the same driving verve and handling that fans have come to love. The CR-V Hybrid is pricier than Toyota’s model, but it provides more value to driving enthusiasts.
The 2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid starts at $35,630. It uses a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motors to produce 204 horsepower. The small hybrid SUV achieves 43 miles per gallon in the city and 36 miles per gallon on the highway.
I tested the 2026 CR-V Hybrid and found it fun to drive. It has 39.3 cubic feet of cargo space, making its cargo area even roomier than the RAV4’s. The CR-V feels refined for a mainstream family SUV and is well-balanced.
2026 Toyota RAV4 vs. 2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid
The most noticeable difference between the two Japanese small hybrid SUVs is their respective starting prices. Choosing the CR-V Hybrid over the RAV4 will cost an additional $3,730 before taxes and fees. That price difference gets you a slightly classier family SUV with a bit more cargo space.
Toyota’s RAV4 comes standard with a 10.5-inch infotainment system screen, which is 1.5 inches longer than the CR-V Hybrid’s standard screen. When it comes to value for the money, the Toyota RAV4 is tough to beat because it’s significantly more affordable and boasts superior gas mileage.
In terms of quality and handling, the CR-V Hybrid has the upper hand. Drivers who find the RAV4 base model too bare-bones can upgrade to the SE trim for $34,700 and get upgrades such as heated front seats and a smart key system.
If you can look past the RAV4’s interior quality, it’s the better small hybrid SUV for drivers in search of value. If you’re a driving enthusiast and want a smooth ride and premium materials, the CR-V Hybrid may be worth the price difference.
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