RAV4: A Detailed Comparison of Two Compact Crossover SUVs
Ford Bronco Sport vs. Toyota RAV4: Which of these two compact crossover vehicles earns the spot in your driveway? When it comes to performance and safety, one of these SUVs takes a slight lead—while the other grabs the top fuel economy ranking.
The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport is just a few model years old, but it’s already made a statement as the assertive, retro-themed companion to Ford’s more urbane Escape crossover. The Bronco Sport sits on a shorter wheelbase and has more off-road tricks than the Escape, but nets less rear-seat space. The 2025 Toyota RAV4, meanwhile, has been a bestseller for years thanks to its versatility and the availability of its hybrid and plug-in hybrid editions. It can be quick, even as it ferries four people plus their cargo.
Which one’s better for you? Here’s how they compare, category by category.
Bronco Sport vs. RAV4 price and trims
- Base Bronco Sport starts in the low $30,000s
- Base RAV4 starts at about $30,000
- Best picks: Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend, Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
How much is a Ford Bronco Sport? Which Ford Bronco Sport should I buy?
With a price in the low $30,000 range, the base Bronco Sport Big Bend comes with features such as a 13.2-inch touchscreen, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, roof rails, and cruise control. Rubberized floor mats, Molle straps on the seat backs, and other adventure gear encourages going wild on the weekends. All-wheel drive is standard. Options include Bang & Olufsen 10-speaker audio, a track-mounted cargo organizer, and rubberized floors.
The fancy versions include the Outer Banks—stickered from the high $30,000s for heated power front seats, 18-inch wheels, and leather upholstery—or the Badlands, which for a base price of $41,590 adds in more robust off-road hardware, a front-view camera, a more powerful engine, and front-mounted tow hooks.
How much is a Toyota RAV4? Which Toyota RAV4 should I buy?
A huge span in prices drives Toyota RAV4 owners from the $30,000 mark to more than $49,000, but the base model will serve many just fine. With front-wheel drive, or $1,400 more for all-wheel drive, it has 17-inch wheels, adaptive cruise control, and an 8.0-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Since RAV4 Hybrids have standard AWD, the hybrid upcharge is only about $1,700, so we’d recommend the hybrid. We’d spend about $36,000 to upgrade to the XLE Hybrid RAV4, which gets a power driver seat and heated front seats as well as the more frugal drivetrain.
A Woodland model costs about $38,000 and gets rugged styling. At the top of the range, the plug-in RAV4 Prime adds a power tailgate, JBL audio, a 10.5-inch touchscreen, heated rear seats, a surround-view camera system, and a head-up display in the Prime XSE, and the sticker runs more than $50,000. The RAV4 Prime can be hard to find at dealers due to capped production volume: Beware the markup.
Advantage: A draw—both have lots of variety and a big span in prices.
RAV4 vs. Bronco Sport towing, off-road, and performance
- Bronco Sport has advanced off-road touches
- RAV4 TRD Off-Road can carve trails, too
- RAV4 Prime is the quickest of all
Is the Ford Bronco Sport 4WD?
Every version of the Bronco Sport comes with all-wheel drive. Those with the 181-hp turbo-3 engine get a less complicated system with a power split between the front and rear axles, as well as a set of five drive modes that alter traction and stability control to better cruise through sand or slippery conditions.
On the 238-hp turbo-4 Bronco Sport, Ford fits a system with a twin-clutch rear differential. It can not only shift power between the front and rear, it can move it between the rear wheels for better power distribution. Those versions also get drive modes for muddy and rocky conditions. The Bronco Sport can tow at least 2,000 pounds and most versions have at least 7.9 inches of ground clearance.
With available skid plates and all-terrain tires and hill descent control, the Bronco Sport can be a capable and ideally sized trailblazer. But even on road, the SUV has a ride that’s compliant enough for daily driving, smartly tuned steering, and smooth transmission shifts—though the cabin can get loud.
Is the Toyota RAV4 4WD?
Standard-issue RAV4s get front-wheel drive, but all versions can be outfitted with all-wheel drive. Non-hybrids get a simple system with a power split front to rear, while Hybrid and Prime RAV4s use their electric motor to power the rear wheels while the gas engine powers the fronts. For better grip in stickier situations, the top all-wheel-drive RAV4 trims split power between their rear wheels, too.
Base RAV4s tap a 203-hp 4-cylinder and an 8-speed automatic to move with reasonable authority, but there’s a lot of noise that accompanies a heavy throttle foot. The Hybrid pairs that to the rear motor and a battery pack for a net of 219 hp and smarter off-the-line acceleration. With a bigger battery pack, the 302-hp RAV4 Prime is the quickest of all, hitting 60 mph in 5.7 seconds while generating pure electric driving range.
The battery, though, gives it a heavy feel on the road, though it still steers with clarity and has a well-tuned ride. All RAV4s have better steering and handling than the vehicles that bore the nametag a few years ago.
Advantage: Ford Bronco Sport for off-roading; RAV4 Prime for stoplight 0-60 mph runs
Ultimately, the decision between the Ford Bronco Sport and the Toyota RAV4 comes down to personal preference and priorities. If safety is your top concern, the RAV4 may be the better choice with its top safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS. On the other hand, if you value fuel efficiency and a more spacious interior, the RAV4’s superior cargo capacity and fuel economy may sway you in that direction.
Both vehicles offer unique styling and a range of features that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer the retro kick of the Bronco Sport or the edgy and athletic stance of the RAV4, both vehicles have something to offer in terms of design and functionality.
Ultimately, both the Ford Bronco Sport and the Toyota RAV4 are solid choices in the compact SUV segment. It’s worth test-driving both vehicles to see which one best meets your needs and preferences. Safety, fuel economy, interior space, and design are all important factors to consider when choosing between these two popular SUVs.
In the world of cars, reliability is a key factor that many consumers consider when making a purchasing decision. For years, Toyota has been known as the most reliable car brand, but according to Consumer Reports, that is no longer the case. So, if reliability is a major consideration for you, it might be time to look elsewhere.
One brand that has been gaining recognition for its reliability is Ford. In particular, the Ford Bronco Sport has been praised for its dependability and performance. The base model of the Bronco Sport has been named the winner in terms of reliability, making it a solid choice for those who prioritize this factor.
On the other hand, if efficiency is your top priority, then the Toyota RAV4 Prime would be the winner. This hybrid SUV offers impressive fuel economy, making it a great option for those looking to save on gas expenses.
When it comes to choosing between the Ford Bronco Sport and the Toyota RAV4 Prime, it ultimately depends on what matters most to you. If reliability is key, then the Bronco Sport is the way to go. However, if efficiency is your top concern, then the RAV4 Prime is the better choice.
Regardless of which model you choose, both Ford and Toyota are reputable brands that offer quality vehicles. It’s always important to do your research and test drive different models to see which one suits your needs and preferences best. When making a decision, it’s important to consider factors such as reliability, efficiency, performance, and overall value for your money.
In conclusion, while Toyota may no longer be the most reliable car brand according to Consumer Reports, there are still plenty of other options out there. The Ford Bronco Sport and Toyota RAV4 Prime are just two examples of reliable and efficient vehicles that are worth considering. Ultimately, the choice is yours to make based on your individual needs and priorities.
