Honda CR-V vs Toyota RAV4

Honda and Toyota have long been in the market spanning over 16 years since the introduction of their crossover SUVs. For years, consumers always eyeing on Honda CR-V vs Toyota RAV4 to get the most bang for the buck. The Toyota RAV4 was introduced in 1994, but didn’t make it to American soil till around 1996. The name literally translates to “Recreational Active Vehicle” with 4-wheel drive, even though 4-wheel drive wasn’t a standard option, and it was designed for just that. It was aimed at the consumer market that was looking for the capability, ride height, and feel of an SUV, but with the maneuverability and compact wheelbase of a smaller car. The great success of the RAV4 is said to have created the buzz around compact crossovers, and since then we have seen many variations from different car manufacturers like the Ford Escape and Chevrolet Equinox.

Honda CR-V

Hondas CR-V has been one of the leaders in the compact SUV market since its introduction in 1995. The CR-V’s literal translation is actually under some debate, but a lot of people commonly agree that it means: “Comfortable Runabout Vehicle”. This would make sense considering the fact that the CR-V offers just that; a comfortable vehicle to get around and runabout in! The CR-V, like the RAV4, is offered in both 4×4 and front-wheel drive models and comes in a variety of different packages to accommodate a variety of budgets. The CR-V itself is actually based on the Honda Civics platform, which makes it as compact as an SUV can get, while still offering great ride visibility and cargo room.  This is also true for the RAV4 in the sense that the frame is based on Toyota’s flagship compact sedan: The Corolla.

Toyota RAV4

The Toyota RAV4 is currently in its 3^rd generation and has been relatively unchanged since 2005. In 2011, however, they changed the rear and front a bit cosmetically. Toyota does offer a few more engine options than Honda like diesel options, and even a 3.5L V6 option. They even provide the option of a 6-speed manual transmission for those looking to get the most performance out of their RAV4. The standard engine in the RAV4 however is the 2.5L Inline-4 engine, which produces somewhere around 179 horsepower and 172 lbs.-ft. of torque and gives an estimated 22 mpg city and 28 mpg hwy.

In Honda CR-V vs Toyota RAV4 comparison, you’ll find that Honda CR-V is now running into its 4^th generation model, which was introduced in 2011. It is powered by Hondas 2.4L i-VTEC engine that produces a whopping 184 horsepower with a 163 lbs.-ft. of torque. The standard drive train is expected to reel in 23 mpg city and 31 mpg hwy, while its all-wheel drive counterpart is expected to be around 21 mpg city and 30 mpg hwy, which isn’t all that bad considering its 4×4. The new 2011 Honda CR-V is sure to satisfy anyone looking for a quality built crossover SUV. In comparison to a RAV4 the CR-V actually gets points knocked off for seating capacity, the RAV4 is just a much more comfortable ride when it comes to the near full load of 5 people, but the RAV4 actually can seat as many as 7 passengers with an option 3^rd-row seat option.

Their performance is essentially matched since they share a pretty similar Inline-4 engine with around the same horsepower; they both have the same towing capacity of about 1,500 lbs. When it comes to engine power in Honda CR-V vs Toyota RAV4 comparison, RAV4 is more superior. But what makes the RAV4 superior is the option of 3.5L V6 engine, which boasts a nice 269 horsepower and 245 lbs.-ft. of torque.

In terms of pricing in Honda CR-V vs Toyota RAV4, be looking to spend around $21,000 to $26,000 on either of them. Since both Honda and Toyota have an exceptional market following, they are able to price their vehicles competitively, making it hard for one to outshine the other just with a lower price. Toyota and Honda also essentially offer the same exact Warranty so don’t expect to get anything more out of the other.

Toyota RAV4 2011 Review – Engines, Fuel Efficiency, Safety

The mechanics of the RAV4 consists of two engine units. In both cases customers can choose between front-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive. RAV4 is an above average small SUV that will seat 5 people comfortably, or even 7 with the optional third row of seats. The Toyota RAV4 2011 review is expected to have the following specifications.

• Toyota RAV4 2011 Prices: $ 22,750 for the Toyota RAV4 2011 base model.
• Motor: The two available engines include a 2.5 liter V4 or a 3.5-liter V6 that each generates 179 horsepower or 269 horsepower.
• Transmission: All RAV4 buyers can choose from a front-or four-wheel drive. The smaller engine has a standard four-speed automatic, while the larger engine has a five-speed automatic as standard and is available in the smaller engine as an option.
• Fuel economy: 22 mpg city and 28 highways.
• Acceleration: From zero to sixty times of 7.2 seconds for the larger engine.
• Car Safety Features: The RAV4 comes standard with stability and traction control, side airbags front seats, ABS disc brakes, side curtain airbags and active headrests length in the front seats. The RAV4 was not able to achieve perfect scores in government crash tests in 2011. All categories except the front passenger rating is five out of five stars, but received only four out of five.
• Warranty: The warranty is for Toyota 36 months / 36, 000 miles.

The IntelliChoice 5-year cost of ownership of the Toyota RAV4 is surprisingly “Excellent” in all models.

Toyota RAV4 2011 Pricing

The base model Toyota RAV4 2011 has suggested an MSRP of $ 21,925 for front-drive version. The option includes $ 1,610 base plus an extra package to add an awning on the slide, upgraded sound system, privacy glass, daytime running lights, and alloy wheels of 17 inches. The mid-range Sport starts at $ 24,435 and the luxury Limited appointed lists V6 trim packages and $ 28,235 as a two-wheel drive vehicle.

Exterior Features

The Toyota RAV4 2011 is planned for the redesign of the classes, but do not expect anything so drastic to the truck, if you saw it on the road. The same three trim levels:  Base, Sport and Limited are expected to be the options for drivers and all major functions and features of each should remain the same.

Interior Features

The Toyota RAV4 2011 will have a clean interior and spacious with simple controls that were easy to reach and operate at the same time. In 2009, Toyota pulled out a large amount of plastic that had plagued the interior of the RAV4 and should not expect to see a return to that, but with added features such as Bluetooth, is likely to be an increase in the number of controls.

The Toyota RAV4 2011 has more interior room and more spacious storage of any vehicle in its class. The interior for the Toyota RAV4 2011 model represents a cool theme, modern, ergonomically designed controls, and softly lit interiors. Standard equipment includes air conditioning, tilt steering wheel, remote keyless entry, power windows and locks, cruise control and plenty of cupholders.

Toyota RAV4 is value for the money with excellent handling, comfortable and good performance compact sport utility vehicle for the family.

The Honda CR-V 2011 review reckoned it hasn’t been significantly changed since the last generation’s introduction in 2007, but it has received a makeover in some areas since then, especially the interior. The 2011 CR-V is said to be a drastic improvement over previous years. It never was the best looking car, but it definitely is a step-up in style from a mini-van. The CR-V is meant as an efficient and practical means to getting around town. It has seating for five adults and the rear seats are collapsible providing ample loading room for moving some bad equipment or even just your groceries.

Honda CR-V 2011 Review – Mileage, Safety and Interior

We see the same 184-hp/160 pound feet of torque and 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, which has been standard with the CR-V since its introduction in 2002, but has been tweaked to pull out 21 city/ 28 hwy mpg. The 2011 Honda CR-V comes in 4 different models like the: LX, SE, EX, & EX-L. All four models are available in AWD (All-Wheel Drive), but come standard with Hondas typical front-wheeled drivetrain, which has a 5-yr./ 60000 mi. warranty. The car isn’t necessarily going to be tearing up the roads, but with the available 5-speed manual transmission you can expect a quick and responsive ride that can sometimes put a small grin on your face.

In Safety the CR-V has been awarded Top Safety Pick by the IIHS and is one of highest rated in terms of reliability and as well for resale value. It has one of the best ratings in crash testing and for a vehicle of its size it’s considered one of the safest out there.  Since the car sits pretty high off of the ground it’s a pretty choice when tackling semi-rugged terrain. It isn’t essentially an off-roading monster, although the all-wheeled drive transmission can handle pretty much any terrain that’s thrown at it, the front-wheel drive counterpart is actually pretty well-equipped to handle a moderate “off-road” situation.

The CR-V’s interior has been also updated with a new interior. Honda has kept up with the times by changing some of the interior components aesthetics. The LX, SE, and mid-grade EX offer the basic set of features like power windows and power locks. The top of the line EX-L on the other hand comes richly equipped with In-line steering controls, Full-power leather seats, Hands-free Bluetooth system, Automatic climate control, USB Media ports, and a GPS navigation system.

Honda CR-V Pricing

The 2011 Honda CR-V is a compact crossover that is sure to please, boasting a nice set of features in its higher end models while still offering more affordable models to help ease the price for those who think the EX-L’s estimated $28,495 price tag is a little too steep. A standard 2011 Honda CR-V will cost you around $20,000 which is actually a pretty decent price considering what you get.

For a vehicle with the quickness and feel of a car, the ride height and capability of an SUV, Honda has constantly provided us with quality vehicles that we have grown to love and admire; the CR-V certainly doesn’t fail in this area.

2011 Ford Escape Reviews and Prices

2011 Ford Escape price range from $21,240 – $33,080. The price is according to official list of trademarks, subject to change without notice.

Engine Performance

The 2011 Ford Escape is a compact SUV with 5-speed manual transmission and 6-speed automatic that comes with several engine options. The XLS standard engine is 2.5 liter, four cylinders that have not changed much since the 2010 version. This engine has 171 horsepower and 171 pounds of torque. If you need a little more power, consider the upgrade to version 3.0-liter V-6 engine of a rating of 240 horsepower with 223 pounds of torque. With one of the Escape Hybrid models, one can enjoy the four-cylinder engine combined with an electric motor to a rating of 177 horsepower.

Fuel Economy SUV

The front-wheel drive four cylinder engine, 5-speed manual transmission recorded an average of 23 city / 28 highway, whereas the 6-speed automatic was 21 city / 28 highway. Not many small SUV models can have a better fuel economy and costs less than Ford Escape.

Hybrid SUV

Depending on your driving habits, this engine can run on electric as well as on gasoline or a combination of both at the same time if you choose the hybrid model. Never be able to connect this hybrid into a socket, the battery system is self-loadable onboard. With traditional Escape models, a five-speed manual transmission comes with front-wheel drive models, while the V-6 engines are combined with a six-speed automatic transmission. Hybrid models offer a CVT (continuously variable transmission) design using a rheostat-like mechanism rather than a specific set of gears. The 2011 Ford Escape comes with a front disc brake-matched on the rear drum brakes and an antilock braking system (ABS) and antiskid system for added control.

2011 New Features

For 2011 Ford Escape, offers a wide range of standard and optional updates, such as HD Radio offers free access to digital radio across the country and the Ford SYNC with Traffic notice, directions and information. Music lovers will enjoy the addition of HD Radio technology that enables you to listen to digital sound quality. To use this system, listeners simply need to tune to your favorite station and if the station is broadcasting with this technology, the unit automatically selects the signal and makes the transition to digital audio. As for engine, the model continues to offer advanced options that maximize performance and fuel efficiency.

Test Drive Performance

During test drives, the 2011 Ford Escape has operated as it always has. Compared to some vehicles with updated designs, its engine management cannot be compared with newer crossover offers by its competitors. The engine may sound a little harsh, while handling will not feel as smooth. Reviewers complained that the rides were not as smooth as other newer crossover SUVs. However, if you are replacing your old exhaust with a new model is likely to be satisfied with the test drive.

Buying Decision

The Ford Escape is still a good vehicle, but the design is becoming a bit old. Other vehicles have advanced features that the Escape once had. However, the 2011 Ford Escape is better than many other vehicles in its class especially when it comes to fuel economy. You may want to check out other compact suv models or the following vehicles before making a final decision:

•           Chevrolet Equinox

•           Toyota RAV4

•           Subaru Forester

•           Honda CR-V

The 2011 Ford Escape adds little details that add to the rich experience garnered over the last ten years. In this way, the indoor comfort is a principal axis in the survival of the model on the mark.

Whether you need it for transporting of many things to and fro or for frequent transportation of children or even frequent family trips; you need an SUV to make things worth it. A car is necessary for everyone no matter how wealthy or poor you think you are, it is possible to find an affordable SUV that is also fuel efficient. The list below show some of the best fuel efficient SUVs for you to consider and make a decision on what you would prefer.

List of Popular Small Size, Cheapest and Most Fuel Efficient SUV

Honda CR-V

First the 2011 Honda CR-V is one great fuel efficient SUV that you can trust for safety, reliability and performance. With 28 miles on road to one gallon and the MSRP of $21,895 – $30,095 it is considered one of the top-rated most affordable fuel efficient SUVs in the market. Some drivers experienced more than 30 mpg overall. Honda CR-V is a crossover SUV with good gas mileage, spacious passenger and cargo areas, has comfortable seating and a roomy trunk.

Honda CR-V isn’t the fastest and most stylist SUVs but it has the best resale value in the compact SUVs market and won several awards. It’s practical, fuel economy, fun and affordable.

The 2.4 L Honda CR-V has 4 cylinders, 16 valves that powered by a 180 hp @ 6800 rpm cylinder engine and it comes with three trim options — the base LX, mid-level EX and luxurious EX-L. It has 5-speed automatic transmission and shoppers can choose between front-wheel and all-wheel drive.

Shoppers may consider the 2012 Honda CR-V model which has higher EPA-estimated fuel economy rating and a new transmission.

Toyota RAV4

Toyota RAV4 ranked among the top 3 in the most affordable compact SUVs review with MSRP of $21,015 – $26,855. It is the most practical, family-friendly and most fuel efficient SUVs in the small SUV category. Shoppers have the option to add-on third row seating for kids and a powerful V6 engine which gets pretty good fuel economy. The spacious and comfortable seat makes it a top pick for small crossover SUV.

The 2011 Toyota RAV4 is well-liked for its car-like performance and outshines its competitors in safety features. However, it has a few negative remarks – awkward cargo door, interior feels cheap compared to the other compact SUVs and not so fun to drive. Nevertheless, it provides smooth ride on crumbling expressways. The 2011 four-cylinder 2 wheel-drive model nets a 22/28 mpg city/highway, and the all-wheel-drive four-cylinder at 21/27. On the other hand, the V6 almost matches the EPA of the four cylinder models.

The only choice of all RAV4 models is the automatic transmission — four-speed with the four-cylinder, five-speed with the V-6. The 2.5 L Toyota RAV4 runs on 179 horsepower which provides enough power for daily use. For towing purpose, opt for the 3.5-liter 269-horsepower V6. Drivers will enjoy high engine power stability without much of a fuel economy penalty.

The 2012 models come with more features – better sound system with Bluetooth connectivity and much more.

Luxury Compact SUVs

For people who want to go for luxury compact SUV and drive in style, it is important to consider the Acura RDX, Infinite ECX35, Audi Q5, Volvo and Mercedes Benz among others which range between $30,000 to $43,000. Or you may look for the best small SUV to help you make better buying decisions.

Depending on what you are looking out for and your comfort, you can choose among these cars or many other fuel efficient SUVs available on the automobile market today.

Looking for the correct car that will fit your needs as well as that of your family’s can become one wearisome job. Almost all of us are searching for just the finest deals and will want to get a fuel economy SUV without the need to spend a lot of bucks from your pocket. Just a simple and small SUV can already give some enjoyment for moms and dads who are aiming to buy their own family car while still leaning on the practical side. This article provides small SUV comparison to help you make better buying decision in terms of prices, mileage, quality and performance.

The modern day families have already evolved and together with it are the changes in their needs as well. They now need compact cars that do not need to have big spaces while still offering great facilities that you can commonly find in bigger vehicles. Through the help of a small SUV comparison, you will be able to compare which of these SUVs have cargo space, a minimum sitting capacity of four plus, tough get presentable look of the exterior and advanced safety measures.

These can all be featured in just a single car, and if you are lucky enough, you might not even feel any dents on your wallet when you refill the fuel, which is really a great thing.

To help you in making your decision as to what small SUV models you should buy, here are three SUVs that are worth checking out.

2010 Audi Q5

Experts all say that 2010 Audi Q5 is something that can do almost all that you expect from a small SUV. Amounting around $37,350 as the suggested retail price by the manufacturer, this SUV can be handled like sport sedans yet it will surely give you the kind of pampering offered by luxury cruisers. During poor weather, you can expect that its standard drive of all-wheel will give you sure footedness. Q5 can definitely out tow all of its rivals, with its maximum capacity of 4,400 pounds and for its class, you can consider its fuel economy as just average, with 20 MPG combined. Its crash ratings can be considered as the best among other SUVs. Its cargo space is also average and its large rear floor hump can accommodate comfortable a total of four adults.

2010 Volkswagen Tiguan

Ranging from $23,200 up to $33,500, 2010 Volkswagen Tiguan is considered by many reviews as something that can outshine its look-alike SUVs due to its personality. Testers say that it is more agile, stylish and more fun as compared to other SUVs such as 2010 Honda CR-V. The satisfying performance and classy cabin makes it a much cheaper alternative as compared to more expensive luxury SUVs such as 2010 Audi Q5. Additional bonus for it would be the very complimentary crash ratings.

2010 Honda CR-V

With suggested retail price of $21,545 up to $27,745, 2010 Honda CR-V offers all its users an outstanding reliability, cargo space as well as resale value which makes it a sensible choice. Also, reviews say that its attractive cabin and nimble handling puts this in the list of small SUV comparison of good choices. Testers also claim that CR-V is confident and quick, even if this just offers a four-cylinder engine that is fuel efficient wherein most rivals just offer the optional V6, with expected overall of 23-23 mpg. There is also a lot of tough competition yet experts still recommend Honda CR-V usually as compared to other models of SUV.

These three are all offering great features and benefits that is why it is much appreciated by many users and car enthusiasts.

Reading this article will definitely help you a lot whenever you decide to buy a small SUV. A small SUV comparison will be serving as your guide as to what are the features that you ought to look for when you are buying an SUV. With plenty of choices available in the market these days, it is definitely a bit of a task for you to find something that will be able to cater to all your needs as well as the needs of your family. Through reading this small SUV comparison, you will no longer find it hard to choose which one is really the best. Make sure that you read this in order for you to get the best out of your money and make your money worth the investment.