How popular is the Toyota RAV4? How about the fact that in 2024, it outsold the Ford F-150 pickup truck, 475,193 units to 460,915 units, according to Jato Dynamics? As Ford F-150 sales fell 5%, Toyota RAV4 sales grew 9% last year. Still, just because a vehicle is popular, doesn’t mean it’s good. Just ask someone who uses Salesforce software or makes coffee using coffee pods. Popularity does not ensure excellence.
Toyota
So, perhaps you’ve looked at a Toyota RAV4 and decided that it isn’t for you. There has to be something better, right? Well, there is; it just depends what you’re looking for. After all, the compact SUV class is among America’s most popular, alongside pickup trucks of course.
Given the plethora of compact SUV choices, you might want to look at some key competitors, all of which have far more personality. Here they are, in alphabetical order.
Dodge Hornet
This overlooked, fun-to-drive compact SUV that’s the identical cousin to the tonier and more expensive Alfa Romeo Tonale. Opting for the Dodge gets you the same equipment, but with a base price and destination charge anywhere from $5,350-to-$8,015 cheaper before any discounts. Does that get your attention? The Dodge differs from the Alfa Romeo in its hood, front-end clip, side cladding and rear lighting. But its overall shape is a dead-ringer for its Italian cousin.
Base Hornet GTs come equipped with a 268-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces a 0-60 mph time of 6.5 seconds. The upper-level Hornet R/T plug-in hybrid comes with a small 1.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gas engine with an electric motor on the rear axle that generates 288 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time of 5.6 seconds, along with 30 miles of all-electric driving, the difference in performance is minimal at best.
The driveline is fairly smooth and you can easily tap its available power. Despite the somewhat light steering, it proves fun to flog through the twisties. And its a 10.3-inch infotainment touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster lend it a modern feel. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard. That said, its backseat legroom is fairly light and cargo space is less than competitors. But if fun matters to you, this is one to sample.
Ford Bronco Sport
The smaller of the two Bronco models offered by Ford, the Bronco Sport shares its underpinnings with the Ford Escape and Maverick, but is truer to the original than its bigger brother due to the similar size.
Ford
A 181-horsepower turbocharged 1.5-liter 3-cylinder engine and 8-speed automatic transmission come standard, although a 250-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder is offered on higher trims. All-wheel drive is standard as are Normal, Eco, Sport, Slippery, and Sand driving modes. Additional Mud/Ruts and Rock Crawl modes are available on some modes, along with 8.8 inches of ground clearance, giving this Bronco credible off-road chops. Still, it lacks a low range creeper gear or an electronically-detachable sway bar, and you can’t remove its roof or doors. But there’s enough here for most off-roading.
Ford
It quickly climbs a sand-covered hill or delivers the requisite suspension compliance to ensure a comfy ride along our deteriorating arteries. And while its 4×4 nature means you won’t be able to indulge your inner Andretti, it pays off as an off-road warrior.
Honda CR-V
With a simple, square-jawed cleanliness that’s emblematic of classic Honda design, the CR-V avoids the overwrought faux off-road attitude of the RAV4. It doesn’t pretend to be something that it’s not, while embracing its mission as a practical travel host. With two impressively roomy rows and a 36.3-cubic-foot cargo hold, there’s more than enough space for everyone and their pile of stuff.
Honda
Choose the EX and EX-L CR-V, and you’ll find a 190-horsepower 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine under the hood. In contrast, Sport and Sport Touring Hybrid CR-Vs come with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with two motors that generate 204 horsepower and EPA ratings as high as 40 mpg. Either front-wheel or all-wheel drive is offered.
Honda
The CR-V’s power is sufficient for its task, while its continuously variable transmission doesn’t suffer from the indecisive power delivery typical of the breed. Its steering ratio is perfect, with well controlled body and a comfortable ride that render it modestly athletic, although it’s not the track star that the Mazda proves to be. Still, it’s more enjoyable to drive than anything that’s so practical.
Mazda CX-50
About the same size as a Porsche Macan, the Mazda CX-50 is a longer, wider CX-5 and sports a similar elegant silhouette outside and inside. Chrome accents, soft-touch surfaces, and subtle stitching secrete the indispensable upmarket atmosphere.
Mazda
The simple, elegant instrument panel features commonly-used buttons, while a knob on the center console control the standard 10.3-inch infotainment display.
Mazda
There’s a choice of two 2.5-liter four-cylinder engines. Base CX-70s get the non-turbo version that generates 187 horsepower. With a turbo, the same unit produces 256 horsepower, or about the same as a base Macan, although it requires using 93 octane fuel. A six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive are standard. The CX-50’s steering is quick and accurate. There’s some body rebound, but the ride is generally firm. Still, the Off-Road driving mode provides some off-road ability, although it’s meant more for light off-road duties. Overall, this is a hoot to drive, one that carries 30 cubic feet of lifestyle debris and can tow 3,500 pounds.
Nissan Rogue
Not everyone wants a firm, sporty driving experience. For them, the Nissan Rogue is an ideal solution, especially in its top trim levels. Its cabin detailing has a chic flamboyance accentuated by semi-aniline leather and quilted stitching, although faux leather is available.
Nissan
There’s also a solid tech package with an 8-inch or 12.3-inch infotainment, depending on the model, a 10.8-inch head-up display, and wireless smartphone charging. Cargo space is 39 cubic feet, expanding to 74 cubic feet with the seats folded.
Nissan
But its middle-of-the-road status is apparent once you put the car in gear. A 201-horsepower turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder and continuously variable automatic transmission provide average acceleration, adequate handling, and a very comfortable ride. That’s when you’ll realize that its agreeable personality contradicts its name.
Final thoughts
You don’t have to follow the leader when it comes to compact SUVs and buy a Toyota RAV4. We understand that it’s a safe choice, but the better choice is the Honda CR-V. Depending on who you are, the Ford, Mazda, or Nissan may be as well. There are plenty of strengths and weaknesses in all of these models, and their particular mix of traits means that one is sure to be your next ride.