10 Alternatives To The Toyota RAV4

The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is one of the most popular SUVs in the United States, blending practicality and Toyota’s reputation for reliability with impressive efficiency. Its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, paired with an electric motor, delivers 219 horsepower while achieving up to 40 mpg combined. Add all-wheel drive, a spacious interior, and advanced safety features, and it makes it a versatile choice for families, commuters, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. For many buyers, it represents the sweet spot between performance, efficiency, and long-term dependability.

Yet, the RAV4 Hybrid is not the only game in town. Nearly every major automaker has introduced its own take on the hybrid SUV formula, including Toyota’s primary competitors, Kia, Honda, and Hyundai. Additionally, Toyota offers other options, including a less expensive model and several premium ones. Taken together, these vehicles give buyers a wide range of choices in what has become one of the most hotly contested markets in the auto industry.

2025 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid

Base MSRP: $28,495

Base Trim Engine

2L Dynamic Force I4 Hybrid

Base Trim Transmission

10-speed automatic/CVT

Base Trim Drivetrain

All-Wheel Drive

Base Trim Horsepower

150 HP @6000 RPM

Base Trim Torque

139 lb.-ft. @ 4400 RPM

People looking for a small hybrid SUV under $30,000 would be wise to check out the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid. Not only does it offer an appealing balance of compact size, efficiency, and everyday versatility, but it also achieves a combined 42 mpg. Built on the same platform as the venerable Corolla sedan, it provides more space while delivering the same value and low cost of ownership that made the Corolla a household name.

The Corolla Cross Hybrid’s combination of affordable versatility carries over to its straightforward interior that includes an infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and a comprehensive suite of safety features. Compared to the RAV4, it offers a smaller footprint that makes it easier to maneuver in cities, though cargo capacity is more modest. For buyers who like the RAV4 Hybrid’s blend of efficiency and reliability but want something more affordable and compact, the Corolla Cross Hybrid stands out as a budget-friendly yet capable alternative.

2025 Kia Sportage Hybrid

Base MSRP: $28,790

Base Trim Engine

1.6L I4 Hybrid

Base Trim Transmission

6-speed automatic

Base Trim Drivetrain

Front-Wheel Drive

Base Trim Horsepower

177 HP @5500 RPM

Base Trim Torque

195 lb.-ft. @ 1500 RPM

For a few dollars more than the Corolla, the Kia Sportage Hybrid combines sharp styling with practicality and strong value. As a direct competitor to the RAV4, it’s big on standard features while maintaining a small footprint both in terms of size and fuel economy of up to 43 mpg combined.

Buyers seeking both space and range would do well with the Sportage, which is no penalty box. Inside, it features a modern cabin with dual-screen displays, user-friendly tech, and class-leading rear-seat space. Kia also offers generous warranty coverage, enhancing its long-term value as a stylish, comfortable, and efficient hybrid SUV.

2025 Ford Escape Hybrid

Base MSRP $32,490

Base Trim Engine

2.5L Inline-4 Hybrid

Base Trim Transmission

Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT)

Base Trim Drivetrain

Front-Wheel Drive

Base Trim Horsepower

192 hp

Base Trim Torque

155 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm

Infotainment & Features

9 /10

As one of the OG small hybrid SUVs, the Ford Escape offers a proven balance of efficiency and practicality. Its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, paired with an electric motor, delivers up to 40 mpg combined and can be paired with front or all-wheel drive.

A sliding second row enhances cargo flexibility—something the RAV4 Hybrid lacks, adding to the Escape’s user-friendly nature. Ford’s latest SYNC infotainment system brings wireless smartphone integration, and driver-assist features are standard across trims. While its design is more understated than rivals, its strong fuel economy, roomy interior, and entry price make it an appealing alternative for cost-conscious hybrid SUV shoppers.

2025 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid

Base MSRP: $33,465

Fuel Economy

38/38/38 (Blue) | 35/35/35 mpg

Make

Hyundai

Model

Tucson Hybrid

Segment

Compact SUV

As one of the front-runners in this class, the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid combines bold styling, strong technology, and impressive fuel economy to bear on the competition. Powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, it produces a combined 268 horsepower while delivering up to 38 mpg combined.

High-end models deliver Lexus-like comfort, while every trim level provides a modern cabin with a sleek design and generous space for people and things. While not as rugged as the RAV4 Hybrid for off-road use, the Tucson Hybrid excels in comfort and tech, making it a standout alternative.

2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid

Base MSRP $33,970

Base Trim Engine

2.5L SKYACTIV-G I4 ICE

Base Trim Transmission

SKYACTIV-Drive 6-speed automatic

Base Trim Drivetrain

All-Wheel Drive

Base Trim Horsepower

187 hp

Base Trim Torque

185 lb.-ft. @ 4000 RPM

If you like to drive but need a small crossover, the Mazda CX-50 Hybrid might be the ticket. While it’s no MX-5 Miata, it blends sporty driving dynamics in a practical package while delivering a combined 38 mpg.

Inside, the driver-focused cabin and premium materials feel closer to luxury brands. On the road, it delivers performance, making it one of the more enjoyable hybrid SUVs to drive. Positioned between rugged crossovers and upscale daily drivers, the CX-50 Hybrid is a strong alternative for those wanting hybrid efficiency without sacrificing driving excitement or refined styling.

2025 Honda CR-V Hybrid

Base MSRP: $34,650

Base Trim Engine

2.0L I4 Hybrid

Base Trim Transmission

Electronic Continuously Variable Transmission (e-CVT)

Base Trim Drivetrain

Front-Wheel Drive

Base Trim Horsepower

204 hp

Fuel Economy

43/36/40 mpg (FWD) | 40/34/37 mpg (AWD)

Consciously or not, when people picture the ideal small SUV, a picture of the Honda CR-V forms in their heads. Its well-executed, practical design checks most of the boxes while its hybrid powertrain returns a respectable 37 mpg combined from its 204-horsepower front-wheel drive powertrain.

A versatile interior with a flat load floor and generous passenger room make the CR-V one of the most practical and balanced hybrids for the money. All trim levels get the latest Honda Sensing safety suite and an intuitive infotainment system, though its interface is more modest than Hyundai’s or Kia’s. For those who value efficiency blended with a roomy, family-friendly interior, it’s one of the strongest rivals to Toyota’s hybrid leader.

2024 Toyota Venza Hybrid

Base MSRP $35,070

Base Trim Engine

2.5L Inline-4 Hybrid

Base Trim Transmission

Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT)

Base Trim Drivetrain

All-Wheel Drive

Base Trim Horsepower

219 hp

Base Trim Torque

163 lb-ft @ 5200 rpm

Infotainment & Features

8 /10

If you like the attributes of the RAV4 but are looking for a more stylish hybrid, the Toyota Venza might be your ticket. It offers a more premium experience than the RAV4 Hybrid while sharing its core technology. Powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid system, it delivers 219 horsepower and 39 mpg combined.

The premium feel also carries over into the interior. The Venza offers a Lexus feel with soft-touch materials and an available Star Gaze panoramic roof. As an alternative to the RAV4, it positions itself as a sleek, near-luxury SUV that can be a great long-term vehicle.

2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid

Base MSRP: $37,800

Base Trim Engine

1.6L I4 Hybrid

Base Trim Transmission

6-speed automatic

Base Trim Drivetrain

Front-Wheel Drive

Base Trim Horsepower

231 HP @5500 RPM

Base Trim Torque

271 lb.-ft. @ 1500 RPM

Infotainment & Features

8 /10

As a larger alternative to the RAV4, the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid offers more space for growing families. However, that extra size comes with a price, both in terms of a higher MSRP and lower fuel economy. Powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, it generates 231 horsepower while providing a decent 34 mpg.

Underneath its boxy, minimalist styling, the Santa Fe offers a spacious cabin, comfortable seating for five, and upscale materials that rival more premium competitors. Technology includes a large touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, and Hyundai’s full SmartSense safety suite. It offers versatility and value for families seeking a green alternative to the average mid-size SUV.

2025 Kia Sorento Hybrid

Base MSRP: $38,690

Base Trim Engine

1.6 L/98

Base Trim Drivetrain

Front-Wheel Drive

Fuel Economy

36/36/36 mpg (FWD) | 34/34/34 mpg (AWD)

Make

Kia

Model

Sorento Hybrid

People who want the Hyundai Santa Fe’s attributes without the square styling would do well with the Kia Sorento. Like the Santa Fe, the Sorento offers a larger, more family-oriented alternative to the RAV4 Hybrid and delivers a level of features, refinement, and versatility that stands out in this class.

It might be the most affordable, family-friendly midsize hybrid thanks to its third row seating and a host of safety features. Positioned between the Kia Sportage and Telluride, it provides a “just right” size for most families.

2025 Toyota Crown Signia Hybrid

Base MSRP: $44,090

Base Trim Engine

2.5L Dynamic Force I4 Hybrid

Base Trim Transmission

CVT

Base Trim Drivetrain

All-Wheel Drive

Base Trim Horsepower

188 HP @6000 RPM

Base Trim Torque

178 lb.-ft. @ 4300 RPM

The Toyota Crown Signia stands out in this segment with its sleek, modern design and premium features while straddling the line between Toyota practicality and Lexus luxury. It offers a surprising mix of luxury and performance that rivals more expensive offerings from BMW, Lexus, and Mercedes-Benz.

Granted, it doesn’t offer the RAV4’s rugged capability, but it is ideal for drivers who want efficiency paired with upscale styling and comfort, appealing to those looking for something more refined than a standard Toyota hybrid SUV. And while the price may turn off Toyota’s bargain crowd, it undercuts its luxury rivals while delivering quality refinement.