2021 Toyota RAV4 vs 2021 Honda CR-V
Reliability Side-by-Side
2021
Toyota RAV4
Grade B+
The 2021 RAV4 delivers hassle-free ownership for the vast majority of drivers, with only a few minor tech and transmission wrinkles to watch for.
2021
Honda CR-V
Grade A-
A top-tier compact SUV that reliably delivers on Honda's reputation for practical, efficient, and long-lasting transportation.
Best For
Best for Reliability
2021 Honda CR-V
Score 89/100 vs 85/100
OwnerKeep Passport · $499 · one-time
Your car. Documented. Forever.
Snap a receipt — AI logs it. Build an OwnerScore. Sell with a buyer-ready Passport dossier.
Cost of Ownership
| Line Item | 2021 Toyota RAV4 | 2021 Honda CR-V★ |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Maintenance | — | — |
| Moderate Repairs | — | — |
| MPG (City/Hwy) | 27 / 35 | 28 / 34 |
| MSRP (New) | $26,150 | $25,350 |
Major-failure risk and insurance outlook for each vehicle are in their full reliability reports.
Biggest Risks on Each
2021 Toyota RAV4
Infotainment/Electrical
Transmission
HVAC System
2021 Honda CR-V
Infotainment System
Air Conditioning System
1.5L Turbo Engine Oil Dilution
Get the Full Report on Each
7-system breakdown, mileage danger zones, repair costs, and expert verdict for each vehicle.
$4.99 each · Instant delivery · No account required
Editorial Take
The 2021 Toyota RAV4 and 2021 Honda CR-V are two of the highest-volume compact SUVs in the U.S., so they’re often cross-shopped by buyers who want a practical, efficient daily vehicle with strong resale value. Both offer roomy seating for five, available AWD, and a long track record for reliability, making them popular with families, commuters, and downsizers alike. The biggest decision factors tend to be powertrain preference (RAV4 offers both a conventional gas engine and high-efficiency hybrid; CR-V offers a turbo gas engine and very strong packaging), how the vehicle drives (RAV4 tends to feel more rugged and direct; CR-V more refined and easygoing), and total ownership costs. Shoppers also weigh interior tech, cargo usability, and real-world fuel economy, especially in mixed city/highway driving. HEAD-TO-
Reliability & Common Issues
2021 TOYOTA RAV4
Value & Cost of Ownership
New pricing favored the CR-V slightly at the bottom end (lower starting MSRP), but transaction prices often depend on trim availability and market demand. On the used market, both hold value well, with the RAV4 frequently commanding a premium, particularly the Hybrid. If you’re comparing a 2021 RAV4 Hybrid to a 2021 CR-V 1.5T, fuel savings can be substantial: the RAV4 Hybrid’s 41/38 mpg rating can cut fuel spend noticeably for high-mileage commuters and rideshare drivers versus a low-30s mpg AWD CR-V. Insurance tends to be similar because both are mainstream compact SUVs with good safety records, though exact premiums vary by driver profile and trim (more expensive trims and AWD can raise rates). Maintenance costs are generally predictable for both; Toyota hybrids have a strong reputation for battery longevity and low brake wear (regenerative braking helps), while Honda’s 1.5T requires attention to oil quality and service intervals. Resale value is typically excellent for both, with the RAV4 (and especially RAV4 Hybrid) often among the segment leaders, which can offset a higher purchase price.
Parts & Accessories for These Vehicles
Products for 2021 Toyota RAV4
Products for 2021 Honda CR-V
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.