Choosing between the 2022 Ford Bronco Sport and Toyota RAV4 isn’t as complicated as you might think. These small crossover SUVs have a few things in common, but they’re ultimately designed for different drivers. Let’s take a closer look.
Interior Comfort and Convenience: 2022 Ford Bronco Sport
With roomier front seats and lots of luxury options, the Bronco Sport is the more accommodating daily cruiser. If you choose, you can equip this five-passenger crossover with leather-trimmed upholstery, seat heaters, and a heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel.
When the cargo hold is fully loaded, you’ll appreciate the Bronco Sport’s rear liftgate with the flip-up window. It allows you to simply flip open the window and take what you need.
The Toyota RAV4 might short you on a little bit of front-seat legroom, but it can also be a luxurious option. Depending on how much you want to spend, this crossover is also available with some luxuries, such as a sunroof, faux leather upholstery, and a power liftgate. However, unlike the Bronco Sport, it doesn’t offer real leather upholstery.
Cutting-Edge Features: It’s a Tie!
When it comes to infotainment and high-tech safety gear, these small crossovers have a lot in common. Both offer smartphone-friendly infotainment systems, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities. These crossovers also offer digital gauge displays and LED headlamps.
Standard safety features help you avoid danger no matter which crossover you choose. For example, both the Bronco Sport and RAV4 come standard with forward collision mitigation and a lane-keeping system.
Off-Road Capabilities: 2022 Ford Bronco Sport
Unlike segment competitors, the Bronco Sport was specially designed for off-road adventure. Every trim model features all-wheel drive, traction-boosting performance gear that keeps you from getting stuck when surfaces go soft. For the most rugged performance, choose the Bronco Sport Badlands trim model, which goes deeper into off-road territory with all-terrain tires, underbody skid plates, and an off-road-ready suspension. The Badlands even gives you an upgraded four-wheel drive system with a rear differential designed for especially difficult terrain.
The RAV4 offers optional all-wheel drive, which provides a secure performance on light trails. The RAV4 even offers its own sporty trim model, the TRD Off-Road, which includes all-terrain tires and a special suspension setup. However, the Off-Road isn’t as well equipped as the Bronco Sport Badlands, so it won’t take you as far from the trail as you might like.
Fuel Efficiency: 2022 Toyota RAV4
Although the RAV4 doesn’t offer too many performance options, it does supply the most efficient ride. With its base engine and front-wheel drive, the RAV4 is at its most efficient, with EPA ratings of 30 mpg combined (27 city/35 highway). There’s even a RAV4 Hybrid model available, which helps you save even more money on fuel, earning 40 mpg combined (41/38 mpg).
The 2022 Bronco Sport isn’t too far off, with max EPA ratings of 26 mpg combined (25/28 mpg). Choosing the optional 250-horsepower engine upgrade reduces efficiency slightly, to 23 mpg combined (21/26 mpg).
Choose Your Small Crossover SUV
The 2022 Toyota RAV4 is comfy and modern, but the 2022 Ford Bronco Sport is the ultimate choice. Not only does the Bronco Sport drive you deep into off-road terrain and treat you to a very modern cabin, but it also delivers rugged good looks unmatched in this segment.