2026 Honda CR-V Sport-L vs 2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.
Full Spec Comparison
CR-V Sport-L starts at $36,750, $2,050 less. RAV4 XLE Premium leads with 39 MPG. RAV4 XLE Premium makes 219 hp (+15).
| Spec | 2026 Honda CR-V Sport-L | 2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $36,750 Save $2,050 | $38,800 +$2,050 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L Hybrid | 2.5L Hybrid |
| Horsepower | 204 hp 15 hp less | 219 hp +15 hp |
| Torque | 247 lb-ft | 163 lb-ft |
| Transmission | eCVT | CVT |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 40 1 less | 41 +1 |
| Hwy MPG | 34 4 less | 38 +4 |
| Combined MPG | 37 2 less | 39 +2 |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 36.3 cu ft | 37.5 cu ft |
| Screen | 9.0" | 12.3" |
| Wireless CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Heated Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Moonroof | Yes | Yes |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,780 lbs | 3,790 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.3" | 105.9" |
| Length | 184.8" | 181.5" |
| Wheels | 18" Black | 19" Alloy |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | Honda Sensing | TSS 3.0 |
CR-V Sport-L or RAV4 XLE Premium?
Both are competitive. CR-V Sport-L has a lower entry price, RAV4 XLE Premium leads on efficiency.Test drive both.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 Honda CR-V Sport-L and 2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium?
Which gets better gas mileage, the CR-V Sport-L or RAV4 XLE Premium?
Should I buy a 2026 Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4?
Which is more reliable, the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4?
Is the Honda CR-V bigger than the Toyota RAV4?
What is the cost of insurance for the CR-V Sport-L vs RAV4 XLE Premium?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Honda CR-V Sport-L?
Who Should Choose the CR-V Sport-L
The 2026 Honda CR-V Sport-L appeals to buyers who want strong value without overspending. At $36,750, it undercuts the RAV4 XLE Premium by $2,050.
Honda ownership comes with strong reliability and excellent driving dynamics. Compare more: CR-V EX vs CR-V EX-L, CR-V EX vs CR-V Sport-L, CR-V EX vs CR-V Sport Touring.
Who Should Choose the RAV4 XLE Premium
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium is the better fit for buyers who value what the Toyota RAV4 brings to the table. Superior fuel economy at 39 combined MPG is a genuine running-cost advantage. With 219 hp, it also delivers stronger performance.
Toyota's approach to this suv emphasizes long-term dependability and conservative engineering. If that aligns with your priorities, the RAV4 XLE Premium deserves serious consideration.
Why the Price Difference Exists
The $2,050 price gap reflects different brand strategies and equipment levels. The RAV4 XLE Premium carries a premium, which is driven by relatively modest equipment differences between the two.
Powertrain differences account for part of the gap — the RAV4 XLE Premium makes 15 more hp. Feature differences like a larger touchscreen, 15 more horsepower, larger wheels also contribute. Both are competitive within the suv market, and neither represents a poor value at their respective price points.
What Kind of Buyer Notices the Difference
Enthusiast drivers will feel the differences immediately if there's a powertrain gap. The horsepower difference here is modest enough that most commuters won't notice it. Interior differences become apparent on longer trips where seat comfort, noise levels, and tech features matter more.
For buyers who primarily drive in urban and suburban settings under 40 mph, both of these suvs will feel remarkably similar in daily use. The differences surface on road trips, in extreme weather (where heated seats and AWD matter), and during technology-heavy interactions like navigation and phone integration.
When Both Suvs Feel the Same
In a parking lot, at a stoplight, or cruising in light traffic, these two vehicles deliver very similar experiences. Both are modern, safe suvs with contemporary safety suites, decent infotainment, and comfortable cabins. Neither will leave you feeling shortchanged in everyday scenarios.
The choice between Honda and Toyota often comes down to brand loyalty, dealer experience, and which vehicle simply feels right during a test drive. We recommend driving both back-to-back on the same day — the subtle differences in steering feel, seat position, and visibility are more informative than any spec sheet.