2014 Toyota RAV4 vs. Its Competition

Bengt Halvorson Senior Editor

With its redesign last year, the Toyota RAV4 became better focused against the likes of the Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, and Subaru Forester.

By losing the available third-row seat, a V-6 option, and the spare tire hanging off the side-opening hatch, the RAV4 arrived into the mainstream, after years of surprisingly strong sales offering what was essentially a niche layout.

As a four-cylinder five-seater, it's a direct competitor for the likes of the Ford Escape--and it even favors it a little with its athletic stance.

The Escape offers more choice in powertrains, and good EPA-rated fuel economy, and its handling is very sporty, though interior room is on the tight side.

The latest CR-V also pegs the gas-mileage meter and has excellent space and flexibility, with somewhat less engaging styling and civilian handling.

The Subaru Forester was redesigned this past year and has better mileage, a focused XT model with steering-wheel paddle shifters, and a new off-road mode.

There's also a new Hyundai Santa Fe Sport that falls into a slightly larger size class; its turbo four option feels energetic, but drops highway fuel economy into the high 20s.

The Mazda CX-5 is perhaps the pick for those who want more driving enjoyment—and the base version of the Mazda returns up to 35 mpg on the highway.