2022 Honda Odyssey vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

The 2022 Honda Odyssey was a minivan that catered to families with its practical design and thoughtful features. Its sliding side doors made it easy to load children into car seats, even in tight parking spaces, and the spacious third-row seat provided comfort for additional passengers like grandparents or carpoolers. The Odyssey's cargo space was impressive, offering as much room as a Chevrolet Suburban when the third-row seat was folded and the second-row seats were removed. Despite its utilitarian nature, the Odyssey managed to maintain a sense of style, especially in the Elite trim with its dark gray 19-inch aluminum wheels and kinked sliding doors that added character to its design.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota RAV4 was a crossover SUV that evolved from its original "cute-ute" category into a mature and sophisticated vehicle. Its exterior design featured angular flourishes and expressive headlights, giving it a playful yet aggressive appearance. Inside, the RAV4 boasted a layered dash with contrasting textures and colors, and a well-placed touchscreen interface for minimal distraction. The Adventure-trim test vehicle showcased the RAV4's attention to detail, with a circuit-board-inspired geometric pattern tying the cabin together. The RAV4's design and quality fit-and-finish made it a standout in the crowded crossover market.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. It was a front-wheel-drive minivan with an EPA fuel economy estimate of 22 mpg in combined driving. While it lacked the all-wheel drive and hybrid options available in competitors like the Toyota Sienna and Chrysler Pacifica, the Odyssey offered a more engaging driving experience. During a test drive in Southern California, the Odyssey averaged 22.6 mpg and demonstrated quick acceleration, responsive handling, and composure on various road types. However, its brakes tended to heat up and produce pedal vibration during extended downhill driving, especially when fully loaded.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered three powertrain options, with the gasoline-only model featuring a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. It came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available. The RAV4's fuel economy ranged from 27-30 mpg combined, depending on the drivetrain. The RAV4 Hybrid and RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid provided additional power and efficiency, with the Prime offering 302 horsepower and the ability to run up to 42 miles on electricity alone. The RAV4's handling was car-like, with a four-wheel independent suspension and dynamic torque vectoring for improved cornering. The Adventure AWD model tested delivered smooth power and familiar driving sensations, making it a versatile choice for various driving conditions.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey offered easy access with wide-opening doors and a lower ride height. Inside, the Odyssey Elite featured quality leather seats with power adjustments, heating, and ventilation, along with a tri-zone automatic climate control system. Storage was abundant, with numerous compartments and a handy floor tray. The second-row Magic Slide seats allowed for flexible configurations, enhancing safety and convenience. The third-row seat was comfortable for adults, and the Odyssey provided 32.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind it, expanding to 144.9 cubic feet with the second-row seats removed.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, while classified as a small SUV, offered a spacious interior with 37.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to 69.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. It had a healthy payload capacity and towing capabilities, with Adventure and TRD Off-Road models rated to tow up to 3,500 pounds. Inside, the RAV4 accommodated four adults comfortably, with ample legroom and storage options. The front row featured individual bucket seats and a roomy center console, while the second-row bench seat provided flexibility for passengers and cargo.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey Elite was equipped with a range of technology features, though its infotainment system lagged behind competitors. Starting with the EX trim, it offered an 8-inch touchscreen, satellite radio, and smartphone integration. The Touring and Elite trims added CabinWatch and CabinTalk systems, along with a rear-seat entertainment system. However, the 8-inch screen felt small, and the navigation system required specific voice commands. Overall, the Odyssey's technology package needed an upgrade to remain competitive.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came with a robust set of technology features, with base trims offering a 7-inch touchscreen, smartphone integration, and various connectivity options. Higher trims upgraded to a 9-inch touchscreen and an 11-speaker JBL audio system. The RAV4 Prime showcased advanced technology, including multiple USB ports, a wireless charging pad, and a head-up display. The RAV4's technology offerings were comprehensive and modern, catering to tech-savvy drivers.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey was equipped with Honda Sensing, a suite of driver-assist features including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. It also had automatic high-beam headlights and a rear-seat reminder system. However, Honda Sensing lacked refinement, with occasional false warnings and abrupt responses. The Odyssey received a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 featured Toyota's Star Safety System and Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features. It included adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and automatic emergency braking. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The RAV4 received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA, with the RAV4 Prime earning a Top Safety Pick+.