The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport and Toyota RAV4 are standout compact crossovers, treating drivers to sporty performance and tech-savvy cabins. Choosing between these models, then, is somewhat complicated. That’s where our comparison guide comes in. Check it out to learn the pros and cons of each crossover.
Max Efficiency: 2021 Toyota RAV4
If saving money at the pump is what matters most, the RAV4 is your crossover. In its most efficient form, this Toyota earns up to 30 mpg combined (28 city/35 highway mpg). However, the Bronco Sport isn’t too far off, with EPA ratings of up to 26 mpg combined (25 city/28 highway mpg).
Off-Road Capabilities: 2021 Ford Bronco Sport
Unlike the RAV4, the Bronco Sport was designed with real off-road adventure in mind. Every trim model comes standard with traction-inducing four-wheel drive. And there’s also a specialty trim model, the Badlands, that’s equipped with everything you need to tackle the elements. It comes standard with all-terrain tires, underbody skid plates, and an upgraded four-wheel-drive system.
While the Toyota RAV4 wasn’t exactly built for scaling mountains, it does offer a little extra traction with optional all-wheel drive. And it also offers a couple of trail-friendly trim models, the Adventure and the TRD Off-Road. The Adventure adds sporty gear, like roof rails and selectable terrain drive modes. The TRD Off-Road is better equipped for rugged adventure, however, with all-terrain tires and an off-road-tuned suspension. However, neither is quite as sporty as the Bronco Sport.
Passenger Comfort: 2021 Ford Bronco Sport
Ford’s newest compact crossover is as comfy as it is sporty. Inside, the cabin supplies plush padding and generous passenger space. And optional features, like leather upholstery and heated seats, are available to take interior luxury to the next level.
Inside the Toyota RAV4, you’ll also find nicely shaped front seats with plenty of padding. However, the front seats’ bottoms are on the flat side, which feels fine at first but can be less than comfortable after a few hours of driving.
Smart Tech Lineup: 2021 Ford Bronco Sport
Once again, the Bronco Sport takes the lead. Not only does it feature a bigger, 8-inch infotainment touch screen, but its Sync 3 infotainment system is very easy to use. And every Bronco Sport comes standard with important safety aids, such as blind-spot monitoring and lane-keeping assist.
The Toyota RAV4 comes standard with a 7-inch touch-screen infotainment interface. Like the Bronco Sport, it also includes complete smartphone integration via Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The RAV4 also gets high marks for its standard suite of safety aids. However, Toyota’s Entune infotainment system isn’t as quick to do your bidding as the Ford version.
The Final Say
In the end, while the 2021 Toyota RAV4 makes a great around-town runabout, the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport is more in tune with adventurous drivers. Not only that, but the all-new Bronco Sport is also equipped with a comfier cabin and more in cutting-edge tech features. It’s the clear winner.