2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid vs 2022 Honda Odyssey

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Limited, with its MSRP of $42,083, presented a fully-loaded package that seemed excessive for a RAV4. Despite its high-end features, the vehicle's appearance did not distinguish it from a standard rental car model. The RAV4 Hybrid's design was robust for a compact SUV, though it could have benefited from larger wheels or an Adventure trim level. Inside, the RAV4 Hybrid offered a stylish and practical interior, though the quality of materials varied. A notable issue was a rattle from the license plate, highlighting some inconsistencies in build quality.

In contrast, the 2022 Honda Odyssey, particularly in the Elite trim, offered a sense of style not typically associated with minivans. Its design adhered to the classic minivan look but included unique features like kinked sliding doors and dark gray 19-inch wheels. The Odyssey's interior was spacious and well-appointed, with quality leather seats and a tri-zone climate control system. The minivan's design focused on practicality, with ample storage and innovative seating arrangements like the Magic Slide second-row seats, enhancing its family-friendly appeal.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with electric motors, producing 219 horsepower. This setup provided standard AWD and several driving modes, including Eco and Sport. The RAV4 Hybrid's performance was lively, aided by instant electric-motor torque, though the engine's sound was unpleasant at high revs. The SUV's CVT operated smoothly, and its regenerative braking system was effective. However, the tires offered low grip, affecting cornering performance. The RAV4 Hybrid excelled as a daily driver, with a comfortable ride and decent off-road capability, thanks to its 8.1 inches of ground clearance.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Unlike some competitors, the Odyssey lacked AWD and hybrid options, resulting in a combined fuel economy of 22 mpg. Despite this, the Odyssey was enjoyable to drive, with responsive handling and quick acceleration. However, its brakes tended to overheat on long descents, leading to pedal vibration. Overall, the Odyssey provided a pleasant driving experience, though it required more robust brakes for mountain driving.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid offered comfort with an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat and heated front cushions. Rear-seat legroom was decent, and the cargo area provided 37.5 cubic feet of space, expanding to 69.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. The interior featured practical storage solutions, though some materials were of lower quality.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey excelled in interior space and versatility. Its wide-opening doors and low seating position made entry easy. The Odyssey's interior was well-equipped, with quality leather seats and ample storage. The Magic Slide second-row seats offered flexibility, and the third-row seat was comfortable for adults. The Odyssey provided 32.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 88.8 cubic feet with the seats folded, and a maximum of 144.9 cubic feet with the second-row seats removed.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid featured an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The top-tier infotainment system included an 11-speaker JBL audio system and dynamic navigation. The system was user-friendly, though voice recognition had limitations. Camera-based technology, such as a 360-degree camera system, was available.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey Elite offered an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, its infotainment system lagged behind competitors, particularly in rear-seat entertainment. The Odyssey included CabinWatch and CabinTalk technologies, enhancing communication with rear passengers. The Elite trim added a premium audio system and wireless charging, though the overall technology package was underwhelming.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, featuring adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. The RAV4 Hybrid received a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and top marks from IIHS, except for its headlights.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey included Honda Sensing, with adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. However, the system lacked refinement, occasionally issuing false warnings. The Odyssey earned a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS.