Four Cylinder SUV Showdown

Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) are one of the best selling vehicles on the market. Why wouldn't they be? They offer loads of space for your gear, are capable when the weather turns nasty, and most SUVs drive like a car. On top of that, some SUVs now offer third row seating. So, if you’re trying to avoid the purchase of a van, an SUV may be a good alternative.

Of course, there are drawbacks. Most SUVs consume more fuel than cars, due to their greater mass and four-wheel drive systems, and are more expensive. Despite these negatives, SUVs have a lot offer, so I’m going to compare two of my favorite four-cylinder SUVs that can be purchased for roughly $30 000. Let’s begin.

Tested are the Toyota Rav4 and Honda CR-V.

First up, the Toyota Rav4. Its’ pricing starts at $24 345 for two-wheel drive and $26 980 for four-wheel drive.  So, you can get into the Rav4, add some options, and still be under $30 000. If you’re looking to impress the neighbors, a loaded limited model will run you $34 445.

For your money, you get a recently upgraded 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that makes a strong 179 hp and 172 lb-ft. It is mated to a four speed automatic transmission. Towing capacity is rated at 1500 pounds. This base model includes air conditioning, cruise control, power windows, a nice sounding 6 speaker CD stereo, and power locks with keyless entry.  Safety features include ABS, electric brake distribution, stability control, front and side air bags, and a tire pressure monitoring system, just to name a few.

Toyota has definitely made a well-rounded SUV. I think my favorite aspect of the Rav4 is the exterior. It just looks more truck-like than the CR-V. Also, the steering is decent, the brake feel is good, and it is fairly hushed at highway speeds. But, these characteristics are not enough to stand out in this duo. Here are my gripes.

First off, when optioned with the four-cylinder, the Rav4 only offers a four-speed automatic. In a world of six, seven and even eight-speed transmissions, an inadequate four-speed is somewhat dated, especially when its’ rivals offer more gears. This impacts the Rav4 in two areas, both fuel economy and acceleration. I think Toyota should have used the six-speed transmission found in the four-cylinder Venza. Those two extra gears would have gone a long way to further improve the Rav4’s fuel economy and acceleration.  

Second, the cheap looking interior. When compared to the CR-V, the interior just looks plain.  Remember, the interior is where you’re going to spend all of your time, so it should look and feel good. Although the controls are easy to find and logically located, and the seats are cozy, I just couldn't get past the chintzy looking materials.

And let’s not forget, Toyota’s recent recall issues, which include the Rav4, Corolla, Matrix, Avalon, Camry, Highlander and Tundra. You can breathe now! Toyota has always been a brand that strives to achieve the highest quality products possible. But lately, they have found themselves in hot water concerning various safety issues.  Is it possible that Toyota has lost sight of its’ quality control in pursuit of becoming the world’s number one auto manufacturer? Time will tell.  

Next up, the Honda CR-V. Its’ pricing starts a little higher than the Rav4 at $27 880 for a base two-wheel drive model, and $29 880 to get into a four-wheel drive model. If you’re looking for all the bells and whistles, the price runs up to $37 180.

The standard engine is a smooth 2.4 liter in-line four-cylinder rated at 180 hp and 161 lb-ft. It’s mated to a five-speed automatic. Towing capacity compares to the Rav4 at 1500 lbs. The standard features match-up pretty even with the Rav4, including power windows and locks, keyless entry, air conditioning, and a four speaker CD stereo. The safety features include ABS, vehicle stability assist with traction control, a tire pressure monitoring system, front and front side air bags, and curtain air bags, among others.

Overall, the CR-V stands out when compared to the Rav4 in build quality. For example, the interior looks and feels richer, as it uses higher quality materials. The audio and climate controls function so smoothly it seems as though they turn off ball bearings. The steering is sharper allowing you to feel more connected to the road.  And, on top of that, the CR-V’s engine sounds better and likes to rev more, which gives you the feeling you’re driving a car, not an SUV.

Let’s not forget about the CR-V’s transmission. Honda uses a five-speed automatic, whereas Toyota uses a four-speed. In a nutshell, the CR-V offers better "real world” fuel economy, and you'll find yourself accelerating a bit quicker in the city.

Negatives. Well, there aren’t many in the Honda CR-V. But, if I had to come up with something, it would be the exterior design. Don't get me wrong, the Honda isn't ugly, but it’s not going to get your heart pumping!

All in all, both Toyota and Honda make solid small SUVs. But for my money, I'd be picking the Honda. The superior engineering, higher quality materials and “fun to drive factor” make choosing the CR-V a no-brainer. Plus, you'll never have to worry about unplanned acceleration!

Darryl


Photos courtesy of Car and Driver and Motor Trend