The Kia Sportage and Toyota RAV4 are both reliable compact crossovers equipped with the latest modern features and convenience technologies. If you’re in need of a great passenger vehicle, you may find yourself torn between these two great options. To help you make the right choice, the team at Tom Kadlec Kia has put together this nifty comparison. Learn how the newest Kia Sportage and Toyota RAV4 compare as far as engine and power, fuel economy, cargo capacity, and interior and exterior features.
Engine and Power
The 2023 year marks the Kia Sportage’s fifth generation, and the crossover has stepped it up a notch with newly available hybrid and plug-in-hybrid powertrains that give it a slight edge over its biggest competitors, including the RAV4. The 2023 Kia Sportage is available in seven trims: the LX, EX, X-Line AWD, SX, SX Prestige, Sportage X-Pro, and Sportage X-Pro Prestige. On the basic trim, you’ll find a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that cranks out 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque and pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission, offering plenty of power to tackle busy highways with confidence.
The hybrid version combines a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with a single electric motor to crank out 227 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. These engines both pair with either front- or all-wheel drive. The Sportage is also available as an all-wheel-drive plug-in hybrid, and it shares its engine with the regular hybrid and has a more powerful electric motor with a larger battery pack for improved power and acceleration. The extra power gives the Sportage a little extra liveliness both on an off-road.
In the 2023 Toyota RAV4, you’ll find a peppy 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. It cranks out 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Front-wheel drive is standard, while higher trims offer a robust all-wheel-drive system. The available trims include the LE, XLE, XLE Premium, Adventure, TRD Off-Road, Limited, Hybrid LE, Hybrid LXE, Hybrid Woodland Edition, Hybrid XLE Premium, Hybrid SE, Hybrid XSE, and Hybrid Limited.
Its hybrid versions add two electric motors that add a combined total of 219 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque. Like the Sportage, it offers a stable, comfortable ride on highways and back roads alike.
Fuel Economy
The Sportage and the RAV4 are both highly fuel efficient. The regular Sportage offers a combined EPA-estimated mpg of 25 on city roads and 28 on highways, while the hybrid offers 38 on city roads and 43 on highways and the plug-in hybrid offers an astounding 84 combined mpg. With an mpg of 27 on city roads and 35 on highways, the RAV4 isn’t too far behind. Though the RAV4 churns out a little more power, it’s clear it’s sacrificed some fuel efficiency to do so.
While both models have exceptional fuel economy, they also have an array of innovative performance features designed to further optimize performance and fuel economy. The RAV4 and its hybrid brother both hold Toyota’s renowned electronically controlled, continuously variable transmission system that offers drivers a smoother ride. An array of drive modes are also available, including a special eco mode to enhance range.
Not to be outdone, the Sportage contains an available multi-terrain mode with the sportier X-Pro trim, which offers maximum comfort for off-roading adventures. It also as an eco mode, which dramatically improves fuel efficiency and comes in handy on longer road trips.
Cargo Capacity
It’s cargo capacity and overall space where the Sportage truly reigns king. With a best-in-class 39.6 cubic feet of cargo space, the SUV has more than enough space to load up camping gear, luggage, picnic stuff, and whatever else you need for your next big adventure. It also boasts class-leading legroom, so taller passengers won’t feel too cramped in the back. In contrast, the RAV4 has a cargo volume of 37.5 cubic feet, which is slightly less but still plenty to pack the back.
Interior Features
The interior is another area where the Sportage shines, and the crossover’s plush materials and host of features gives it a slight edge over the RAV4. Upper trims feature a massive 12.3-inch touch screen display and digital instrument cluster, synthetic leather seating, and alloy pedals, providing an ultra-luxury feel that’s hard to find in a standard crossover. The Sportage also has an available panoramic sunroof with a power sunshade, smart cruise control, and ventilated front seats. Interior details are prevalent throughout regardless of trim, and the two-tone color scheme is easy on the eyes.
Toyota decided to swap the RAV4’s infotainment system for something a little more substantial this year, and higher trims get a big 10.5-inch touch screen display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities. Top trims like the XLE Premium add a variety of luxury features, including a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, faux-leather upholstery, and a stitched and padded dashboard and armrest. Both vehicles come with an array of standard and available safety features ranging from automated emergency braking to lane-keeping assistance.
Exterior Features
Thanks to a set of high-utility roof rails, extra ground clearance, and available off-road tires, the Sportage is the slightly more off-road-capable crossover. Several wheel types are available, including 19-inch alloys with a classy gloss black finish. On the Sportage X-Pro Prestige, you’ll find ultra-bright LED projector headlights and front parking sensors, and its bolder, more aggressive styling helps give it a more rugged, outdoorsy look.
The RAV4 also impresses with enhanced suspension and rebound control and red coil springs that provide a superior ride quality. The TRD Off-Road boasts skid plates and a variety of other snazzy exterior features to improve the off-roading experience. With a distinctive wheel design and redesigned headlights, the RAV4 also impresses in more ways than one.
It’s hard to go wrong with a compact crossover, and the 2023 Kia Sportage and Toyota RAV4 are two very appealing options. If you’d like to test drive the Sportage or see it for yourself, stop by Tom Kadlec Kia. You can also contact us online, and our knowledgeable Kia experts will answer any questions you have about both these models and our other inventory. Once you’ve made your choice, our friendly finance department will work with you to ensure you get the best deal.
Connect with us
Recent Blog Entries
Categories
Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. All warranties and roadside assistance are limited. See retailer for warranty details.