You have likely been hearing about the Honda CR-V for years and how it is a top-selling compact SUV. While this might be true, it is not the best-selling SUV. That distinction belongs to the Toyota RAV4, and with good reason, particularly when comparing the latest versions of each.

At Toyota of Bowling Green, we are proud to offer drivers a closer look at the latest Toyota RAV4 for sale near Franklin and help them find the right match for their daily routine, whether that is commuting to work, running errands around town, or taking a long-awaited road trip with friends. If you have been considering upgrading your current vehicle and wonder whether the 2026 Toyota RAV4 or the Honda CR-V is the right fit for you, keep reading to see how they compare. Then, reach out to a member of our team online or stop by our dealership for a closer look.

What Makes the 2026 RAV4 Stand Out?

The all-new 2026 Toyota RAV4 has fully embraced hybrid power with a 2.5L I-4 HEV that is available in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. This powertrain offers 226 hp in front-wheel drive and 236 hp in all-wheel drive. Additionally, you can opt for a plug-in hybrid powertrain, which delivers 320 hp.

By contrast, Honda's 2026 CR‑V still offers both a conventional 1.5L turbocharged I-4 and a 2.0L I-4 HEV. The former produces 190 hp, while the latter gives you 204 hp. When comparing the two, it is easy to see that you get more power (and the ability to reduce your carbon footprint more significantly) when choosing the RAV4. Additionally, many drivers will appreciate peppier acceleration when choosing the RAV4, which means they won't find themselves struggling to merge onto the highway.

However, power isn't all that Franklin drivers are looking for when shopping for a new SUV. So, how else does the RAV4 stand out against the CR-V?

Fuel Efficiency

The 2026 RAV4 Hybrid is expected to provide more than 50 MPG in the city in all-wheel drive; meanwhile, the 2026 RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid will grant an electric-only range of 50 miles. Meanwhile, the 2026 Honda CR-V's fuel efficiency is estimated to be around 28 MPG in the city with the turbocharged I-4, while the hybrid powertrain offers up to 43 MPG in the city, giving the RAV4 the lead in this category.

Functionality

One of the main reasons drivers choose an SUV is increased functionality. For Franklin drivers, this often means the opportunity to tow their fishing boat to the lake or a small camper for weekend adventures with friends. Or, maybe you simply need to load up a trailer with supplies to tackle the looming to-do list at home. Either way, the RAV4's ability to haul up to 3,500 lbs exceeds the CR-V's ability to tow up to 1,500 lbs.

Plus, for more adventurous drivers, Toyota offers specialized trims, such as the Woodland, which adds rugged off-road gear like all-terrain tires, a TRD-tuned suspension, and increased ground clearance. It's worth noting that Honda also has a specialized trim, the TrailSport, which also offers all-terrain tires and a more rugged styling than other CR-Vs, but it lacks the ground clearance and suspension that the RAV4 offers, among other things.

Technology

When you slide into the driver's seat of the 2026 RAV4, you will notice the modern styling right away. This is thanks, in part, to the 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, along with the large touchscreen that's front and center. The standard measurement for that touchscreen is 10.5 inches, but you can upgrade to the available 12.9-inch display when choosing one of the higher trims. The Honda CR-V, on the other hand, offers a measly nine-inch touchscreen display, regardless of the trim level you choose.

However, both the RAV4 and the CR-V allow you to seamlessly connect a compatible phone to the infotainment system so you can access your favorite playlist, turn-by-turn directions, and more. Still, drivers will appreciate the RAV4's generous screen size and crisp images, along with wireless smartphone mirroring (via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto) and an all-new Toyota Audio Multimedia interface. Additionally, the RAV4's dashboard has fewer physical knobs, and there is a bit more console space, leading to a streamlined and clean look overall.

It is important to note that the CR-V's interior is spacious and well-built, but it might also be described as conservative unless you're opting for one of its higher trims, such as the Sport Touring. Additionally, the CR-V is slightly longer and taller than the RAV4, but the differences are marginal, and when it comes to width, the numbers are virtually the same.

Driver Assistance

Both Toyota and Honda prioritize safety, so it is no surprise that the RAV4 and CR-V each offer a long list of features that give you confidence on the road. For the RAV4, those features are part of the Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 suite, which includes things such as collision mitigation, adaptive cruise, lane-keeping assist, and road sign assist. Meanwhile, Honda's suite of safety features is called Honda Sensing. For the 2026 CR-V, you will see many of the same features as the RAV4, making this category a win for both.

How the Latest RAV4 and CR-V Stack Up

While Franklin drivers might tend to prioritize performance, efficiency, and safety, other things are just as important to make an SUV suitable. Both Toyota and Honda know this, which is why they offer specialized trims. For instance, the 2026 RAV4 lineup is tailored to varied lifestyles, from professionals to parents. Notably, Toyota offers the Woodland, which caters to drivers with a passion for the outdoors. It comes standard with AWD, all-terrain tires, and a few extra inches of ground clearance. 

This brand also kept in mind drivers who want a sleek, sporty vibe, which is where the GR Sport trim comes into the picture. With its aggressive lines and 20-inch wheels, it's set to turn heads wherever it goes. In the 2026 CR-V's lineup, there is the TrailSport trim—which adds some off-road styling and all-terrain tires—but there is no high-performance trim comparable to the GR Sport. This may or may not be a deciding factor, but add in the quirky features the RAV4 offers throughout its lineup (such as a removable center console lid that can be used as a snack tray, complete with two cupholders, and the comparable cargo space between the two SUVs), and the leader of the two becomes clearer. 

Check Out the 2026 Toyota RAV4 Today

For the practical, eco‑minded driver, the 2026 RAV4 clearly has the edge. It doubles down on hybrid efficiency and power, outpacing the CR‑V in both horsepower and fuel economy. Its refreshed interior brings larger screens and impressive technology that aligns with Franklin drivers' expectations. Plus, off-road and performance trims, such as the Woodland and GR Sport, give the 2026 RAV4 a versatility and style that the CR‑V's lineup simply can't beat.

Ultimately, the 2026 RAV4 checks all the boxes for a wide range of drivers. Also, the Toyota brand is renowned for its longevity, making any RAV4 a wise investment. If you're ready to see the newest RAV4 up close, check out our inventory online or stop by Toyota of Bowling Green today.