Honda Passport Vs Toyota RAV4 (Which Should You Buy?)

I’m going to save you time. These two SUVs are not the same size class.
The Passport is a midsize 2-row SUV with a V6 and a 5,000-lb tow rating.
The RAV4 is a compact SUV that wins on MPG, and for 2026 it’s a hybrid-first lineup.

So here’s how I think about it.
If you tow, haul, or pack adults in the back seat a lot, I look at the Passport first.
If you drive a lot of miles and want the safest cost-per-mile play, I look at the RAV4 first.

Honda Passport Vs Toyota RAV4

Honda Pilot vs Toyota RAV4: Which SUV Should You Buy?

Quick Answer (60-Second Verdict)

One-Line Summary For Featured Snippet
I’d buy the Honda Passport for space and 5,000-lb towing, and I’d buy the Toyota RAV4 for MPG and lower running costs.

Buy The Passport If You Want

• 5,000-lb towing capacity.
• A bigger cabin and a bigger SUV footprint.
• 44.0 cu ft of cargo behind the second row.
• A V6 feel with stronger passing power.
• Trail-focused hardware and traction features on TrailSport trims.

Buy The RAV4 If You Want

• Much better fuel economy.
• A lower starting price.
• Easier daily driving in tight parking and city traffic.
• Up to 3,500-lb towing on many AWD trims.
• A strong “buy it and keep it” value profile in this segment.

GMC Terrain vs Toyota RAV4

Hero Summary Table (Fast Answer)

Category	Honda Passport (2026)	Toyota RAV4 (2026)
Starting MSRP	$44,950	$31,900
MPG Rating (City/Hwy)	19 / 25	Up to 47 / 40
Max Towing	5,000 lbs	Up to 3,500 lbs
Cargo Behind 2nd Row	44.0 cu ft	37.8 cu ft
Cargo With Seats Folded	83.8 cu ft	70.4 cu ft
“Best At”	Towing, space	MPG, running costs

Hero Asset (Comparison Summary Table)

Here’s the cleanest way I can break this down.
I’m using 2026 model-year info where it’s published, plus the most common real-world configs people buy.

Category	Winner	The Number That Matters
Starting Price	RAV4	$31,900 starting MSRP (RAV4 Hybrid FWD) vs $44,950 starting MSRP (Passport RTL)
Best MPG (Most Efficient Trim)	RAV4	Up to 44 mpg combined (RAV4 Hybrid FWD) vs 21 mpg combined (Passport AWD)
Max Towing	Passport	5,000 lbs (Passport) vs up to 3,500 lbs (RAV4 AWD trims)
Cargo Behind 2nd Row	Passport	44.0 cu ft (Passport) vs 37.8 cu ft (RAV4)
Power (Most Common Config)	Passport	285 hp (Passport V6) vs 226 to 236 hp (RAV4 Hybrid)
Best Adventure Trim Matchup	Depends	Passport TrailSport: 5,000-lb tow. RAV4 Woodland: 3,500-lb tow and hybrid efficiency

My quick read from that table:

• If you tow anything heavy, the Passport is the easy pick.
• If you drive a lot, the RAV4 is the money pick.
• If you want the most space behind the second row, the Passport is the practical pick.

Toyota RAV4 vs Acura RDX: Which One Should You Buy?

Biggest Differences (Compact Hybrid Vs Midsize V6)

These SUVs Are Not The Same Size Class (Why That Matters)

The Passport is a midsize 2-row SUV.
The RAV4 is a compact SUV.

You feel that difference in two places fast.

Cargo space behind the second row:

• Passport: 44.0 cu ft
• RAV4: 37.8 cu ft
• Difference: 6.2 cu ft

Price usually follows the size class:

• Passport starts at $44,950.
• RAV4 starts at $31,900.
• Difference: $13,050.

If you routinely carry adults in the back seat and a full cargo load, I find the Passport easier to live with.
If you mostly commute and do normal errands, I find the RAV4 easier to justify.

Toyota RAV4 vs Toyota Tacoma

Hybrid Efficiency Vs V6 Muscle

This is the heart of the decision.

The Passport runs a 285-hp V6 with AWD.
The 2026 RAV4 lineup is hybrid or plug-in hybrid.

MPG reality:

• Passport: 21 mpg combined.
• RAV4 Hybrid (most efficient setup): up to 44 mpg combined.

Power reality:

• RAV4 Hybrid is 226 hp (FWD) or 236 hp (AWD).
• Passport is 285 hp.

If you like a traditional engine feel and you do a lot of passing at highway speed, the Passport fits that vibe.
If you want lower fuel spend every week, the RAV4 wins without trying.

One extra note I think matters.
The RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid is a wild card.
Toyota lists 324 net combined hp for the plug-in system. That can beat the Passport on power. But it will not beat it on towing.

Toyota RAV4 Vs Toyota Prius: Which One Should You Buy?

The 3,500 Vs 5,000 Towing Breakpoint

This is where I draw a hard line.

Passport:

• 5,000-lb towing rating.

RAV4:

• Up to 3,500 lbs on many AWD trims.
• 1,750 lbs on FWD models and the AWD LE trim.

Here’s how I translate that into real use:

• 3,500 lbs is a small camper and a light boat.
• 5,000 lbs is where you start getting into heavier campers and bigger boats.

If your trailer is anywhere near 4,000 lbs loaded, I stop shopping the RAV4 and I buy the Passport.

Size And Space (Cabin, Cargo, Parking)

This is where the segment mismatch shows up fast.
The Passport is a bigger two-row SUV in every direction.

Passenger Space And Rear Seat Comfort

If you carry adults in the second row, I’d start here.

Rear legroom:

• Passport: 40.9 in
• RAV4: 37.8 in
• Difference: 3.1 in

Rear shoulder room:

• Passport: 61.7 in
• RAV4: 56.4 in
• Difference: 5.3 in

Passenger volume:

• Passport: 115.4 cu ft
• RAV4: 98.9 cu ft
• Difference: 16.5 cu ft

That extra width matters more than people think.
Three across in the back is still not “easy,” but the Passport gives you more inches to work with.

Cargo Space Numbers That Matter

This is my real-life test.
Can I load a big Costco run and still see out the back?

Cargo behind the second row:

• Passport: 44.0 cu ft
• RAV4: 37.8 cu ft
• Difference: 6.2 cu ft

Max cargo with seats folded:

• Passport: 83.8 cu ft
• RAV4: 70.4 cu ft
• Difference: 13.4 cu ft

Here’s the quick cargo view:

Cargo Metric	Passport	RAV4	Difference
Behind 2nd Row	44.0 cu ft	37.8 cu ft	6.2 cu ft
Max With Seats Folded	83.8 cu ft	70.4 cu ft	13.4 cu ft

If you haul strollers, coolers, or bulky camping gear, the Passport gives you more margin.

City Life Check (Turning, Parking, Garage Fit)

This is the part most comparison pages skip.
Bigger is not free in daily life.

Overall size:

• Passport length: 191.5 in
• RAV4 length: 181.0 in
• Difference: 10.5 in

Width (without mirrors):

• Passport: 79.4 in
• RAV4: 73.0 in
• Difference: 6.4 in

Turning circle:

• Passport: 38.9 ft
• RAV4: 36.9 ft
• Difference: 2.0 ft

My take: the width is the bigger deal than the turning circle.
79.4 inches is a lot of SUV in tight garages and narrow parking decks.
If you parallel park often, the RAV4 is the easier daily companion.

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Price And Value (New Vs Used)

I look at this decision in two buckets.
Upfront price, and what happens when you sell.

New Pricing Reality (What You Actually Pay)

On paper, the RAV4 starts much lower.
The Passport starts higher, even before options.

2026 starting MSRPs I care about:

• RAV4 LE: $31,900
• RAV4 Woodland: $39,900
• RAV4 XSE: $41,300
• Passport RTL: $44,950
• Passport TrailSport: $48,650
• Passport TrailSport Elite: $52,650

Now the “what people pay” side.
National averages move, but the pattern is consistent.

Average price paid snapshots:

• RAV4 LE: about $32,706
• RAV4 Woodland: about $40,551
• RAV4 Limited: about $43,886
• Passport RTL: about $46,844
• Passport TrailSport: about $50,883
• Passport TrailSport Elite: about $55,116

Here’s what that means in plain English.
The RAV4’s demand keeps discounts tight, but the Passport is still a bigger check to write.

Used Market Patterns And Sweet Spots

This is where I get blunt.
If you want value, I shop the Passport used first.

Typical used price ranges in the market data:

• Used RAV4: about $29,901 to $41,971
• Used Passport: about $45,067 to $55,874

Two quick tips I use:

• If you want the lowest total spend, buy a used Passport after the first depreciation hit.
• If you want the easiest resale later, the RAV4 is usually the safer bet, even used.

Depreciation And Resale Value (5-Year Look)

This is the strongest money argument for the RAV4.

5-year depreciation rates:

• RAV4: 30.3%
• Passport: 45.8%

Real-world example math:

• A $31,900 RAV4 at 30.3% depreciation is about $9,700 lost value over 5 years.
• A $44,950 Passport at 45.8% depreciation is about $20,600 lost value over 5 years.

That is why I call the Passport a “buy used” hero.
And it is why I rarely expect cheap used RAV4s, even with miles.

Fuel Economy And Running Costs (Real Money Per Month)

If fuel spend is your top priority, I pick the RAV4 Hybrid. Every time. The Passport is a midsize V6 SUV. It drinks like one.

MPG Reality (Hybrid Vs V6)

Here’s the way I look at it. Passport mpg is EPA-rated. 2026 RAV4 mpg is still Toyota-estimated on most trims, since EPA ratings were not posted yet on launch.

SUV	Powertrain	Combined MPG (Best Case)	Notes
Honda Passport RTL	3.5L V6 AWD	21 mpg	RTL is the “best mpg” Passport trim
Honda Passport TrailSport / Elite	3.5L V6 AWD	20 mpg	All-terrain tires cost about 1 mpg combined
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid LE (FWD)	2.5L Hybrid	44 mpg (est.)	Toyota’s most efficient configuration estimate
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid (Most Other Trims)	2.5L Hybrid	39 to 42 mpg (est.)	Bigger wheels and AWD usually land here
Toyota RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid (SE / XSE)	PHEV AWD	41 mpg (est.) + up to 52 miles EV	If you charge, this is the cheat code
Toyota RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid Woodland	PHEV AWD	38 mpg (est.) + up to 49 miles EV	Rugged trim, less EV range
Toyota RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid GR Sport	PHEV AWD	37 mpg (est.) + up to 43 miles EV	Sportiest setup, lowest estimates

Real-world highway is where the gap still shows up. In Car and Driver testing, a 2026 RAV4 Hybrid Limited AWD hit 36 mpg on their 75 mph loop. A 2026 Passport TrailSport hit 25 mpg on their 75 mph loop. That is a big delta when you road trip.

Simple Fuel Cost Math (10k, 15k Miles)

I like showing this with one clear assumption. Then you can swap your local prices.

Assumption:

• Gas price: $2.90 per gallon (AAA national average in early February 2026)

Miles Per Year	Passport (21 mpg)	RAV4 Hybrid (44 mpg)	Difference
10,000	$1,381	$659	$722
15,000	$2,071	$989	$1,083

If you drive about 1,000 miles a month, that’s roughly:

• Passport: about $138 per month in fuel
• RAV4 Hybrid: about $66 per month in fuel
• Difference: about $72 per month

And if you tow with the Passport over 3,500 lb, Honda recommends premium. That can move your real cost up again.

If You Can Plug In (RAV4 PHEV Case)

If you can charge at home or at work, the RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid changes the whole conversation.

What matters in real life:

• EV range: up to 52 miles per charge (SE / XSE), with other trims lower
• Fast charging: DC fast charging is only on specific trims (XSE and Woodland)
• Road trips: once the battery is done, you are basically driving a gas-electric hybrid

Charging is what changes planning.

• If you are on Level 2 only, you are not “quick topping up” at a random stop.
• If you have a DC-capable trim, Toyota says 10 percent to 80 percent can take as little as 30 minutes. That makes charging on a road trip possible, but it is still a stop you need to plan.

My simple rule:

• If you can charge most days, the PHEV makes sense.
• If you cannot charge most days, I stick with the RAV4 Hybrid and keep the money.

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Performance And Towing (The Truth Behind The Numbers)

I care about two things here.

1. Passing power at 50 to 70 mph.
2. What the SUV can tow without drama.

Power And Passing (Hp, Torque, 0-60 Takeaway)

On paper, the Passport has the bigger numbers.
In daily driving, the RAV4 Hybrid stays closer than people expect.

Honda Passport (2026):

• 285 hp
• 262 lb-ft
• 10-speed automatic
• 0-60 in 7.3 seconds (Car and Driver test)

Toyota RAV4 Hybrid (2026):

• 226 hp (FWD) or 236 hp (AWD)
• eCVT-style hybrid drive
• 0-60 in 7.1 seconds (Car and Driver test)

Toyota RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid (2026):

• Up to 324 hp (Toyota press info), depending on trim naming and rating format
• Toyota claims 0-60 in 5.6 seconds on the plug-in

My takeaway:

• If you want effortless thrust with no battery thoughts, Passport is easy.
• If you want quick-enough speed with way less fuel burn, RAV4 Hybrid is the smarter daily driver.
• If you want the quickest version, it’s the RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid, assuming you charge.

Towing And Payload (What Each Can Actually Handle)

Towing is where the Passport earns its keep.

SUV	Max Tow Rating	What To Know
Honda Passport	5,000 lb	Honda recommends premium fuel when towing more than 3,500 lb
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid	1,750 lb to 3,500 lb	1,750 lb on FWD and AWD LE. 3,500 lb on most other trims

Two real-world tips I always share:

• Payload is usually the limiter, not tow rating. Check the driver door sticker.
• Tongue weight is usually 10% to 15% of trailer weight. A 3,500 lb trailer can put 350 to 525 lb on the hitch before you add people and cargo.

AWD And Drive Modes (Snow, Sand, Trail)

This is the personality difference.

Honda Passport:

• AWD is standard
• Seven drive modes: Normal, Econ, Sport, Snow, Trail, Sand, Tow

Toyota RAV4:

• FWD is available on some Hybrid trims
• AWD adds an electric rear motor
• Drive modes include Normal, Eco, Sport, and Custom on the new system
• Plug-in trims add EV-focused behavior on top of that

My quick guidance:

• If you live in snow and want simple traction, both work.
• If you do slow trail stuff and you tow, the Passport is the one I trust more.
• If you do dirt roads and weather with lots of commuting, the RAV4 Hybrid AWD is the sweet spot.

Ride Comfort And Daily Driving

This is where I see the biggest personality split.
The Passport drives like a midsize SUV with a V6 and a 10-speed.
The RAV4 drives like a compact hybrid that’s tuned for efficiency first.

Road Noise, Ride Quality, Seat Comfort

If you want numbers, I have them.

Interior sound numbers from instrumented testing:

• Passport (70 mph cruising): 68 dBA
• RAV4 Hybrid (70 mph cruising): 69 dBA
• Passport (full throttle): 78 dBA
• RAV4 Hybrid (full throttle): 75 dBA

How that feels behind the wheel:

• The RAV4’s 2.5L engine can get loud and buzzy when you floor it. I also feel some vibration under hard acceleration.
• The Passport TrailSport runs all-terrain tires, but reviewers still noted they barely noticed tire noise on real roads thanks to improved sound deadening.

Ride quality notes that matter:

• RAV4 Hybrid: ride quality is good, with supple damping. It also has noticeable body roll if you push it.
• Passport TrailSport: it uses revised spring rates, retuned dampers, and a smaller front anti-roll bar for more wheel travel off-road. On pavement, it still feels stable for a midsize SUV.

Seat comfort is simple for me.

• If you do long drives, the Passport’s front seats and overall space make it an easy place to spend time.
• The RAV4’s seats work fine, but the smaller cabin makes it feel more “compact” on long days.

Long Trip Comfort Checklist

This is what I check before I commit to either one.

Passport Checklist

• 113.6-inch wheelbase. That helps highway stability.
• 18.5-gallon fuel tank.
• 12.3-inch screen, plus physical knobs and buttons for climate and audio.
• 4 USB-C ports total (2 front, 2 rear).
• TrailSport trims add 110-volt outlets in the console and cargo area.
• If you pick TrailSport, expect some tire hum sometimes. Those all-terrain tires are part of the deal.

RAV4 Checklist

• 10.5-inch screen standard. 12.9-inch available.
• 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster.
• Hybrid powertrain for lower fuel stops per month.
• If you want the quietest feel, avoid driving it like a sports car. The engine gets louder under heavy throttle.
• If you want more comfort features, target trims with the JBL audio and the bigger screen.

This Is What You Feel From The Driver Seat

If I’m doing mostly commuting and errands, the RAV4 feels easier.
It’s smaller. It’s lighter on fuel. It’s easier to place in traffic.

If I’m doing long highway days, hauling people, or running loaded all the time, the Passport feels more relaxed.
It has more space. It has a V6 feel. It also has the bigger SUV footprint that makes rough roads feel less busy.

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Tech And Infotainment (What’s Better To Live With?)

I care about three things here.

1. How fast the screen reacts.
2. How often my phone connects without drama.
3. How easy it is to turn driver assist on or off.

Screen, Controls, Voice, Phone Integration

Honda Passport (2026)

• 12.3-inch touchscreen is standard.
• 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster is standard.
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto are standard.
• Wireless phone charger is standard.
• 5G-LTE Wi-Fi hotspot capability is included.
• I also like that Honda kept physical knobs and buttons for the basics.

Toyota RAV4 (2026)

• 10.5-inch touchscreen is standard.
• 12.9-inch touchscreen is available on higher trims.
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto are included.
• Toyota added a “Quick Control Menu” so I can toggle common settings and driver assist features faster.
• Toyota also added a standard built-in Drive Recorder that uses exterior cameras.

My daily-life take:

• If you want a big screen on every trim, Passport wins.
• If you want the biggest screen available, RAV4 can win on higher trims.
• If you hate digging through menus, Toyota’s quick control shortcut is a real improvement.

Built-In Google (Passport) Vs Toyota Multimedia (RAV4)

This is the tech split that actually changes the vibe.

Passport Google Built-In

• Google Maps and Google Assistant are built in.
• Google Play apps are supported.
• Honda pairs this with a 3-year complimentary unlimited data plan for in-vehicle apps.

RAV4 Toyota Audio Multimedia

• The layout is widget-based.
• It adds Drive Recorder as a standard feature.
• It adds an always-available quick control shortcut for common settings and ADAS toggles.

What I’d choose:

• If you live in Google Maps and you want your car to feel like an extension of your phone, I lean Passport.
• If you want the most “car-native” safety and recording features, I lean RAV4.

Driver Assist Usability Notes

Both give you the core stuff most people want.

Passport uses Honda Sensing.

• Adaptive cruise control.
• Lane keeping assist.
• Automated emergency braking.
• Blind spot monitoring.

RAV4 uses Toyota Safety Sense 4.0.

• Pre-collision system with pedestrian detection.
• Full-speed adaptive cruise control.
• Lane centering style assist when cruise is active.
• Other features can stack by trim.

How it feels to live with:

• On the Passport, I like the “normal car” control layout. It is easy to adjust things quickly.
• On the RAV4, I like the quick control shortcut. It makes it easier to toggle driver assists without hunting.

My real shopping tip:

• Test adaptive cruise and lane centering on a real highway loop.
• Do 10 miles.
• Try a lane change.
• Try stop-and-go if you can.
• If you hate how it behaves, the spec sheet will not save you.

Safety, Reliability, And Recalls

If you care about safety test results, the 2026 Passport has the cleaner scorecard right now.
If you care about long-term ownership patterns, the RAV4 has more history behind the nameplate.

Safety Tech Suites (TSS 4.0 Vs Honda Sensing)

Both SUVs come with the basics most people want.

• Adaptive cruise
• Lane assistance
• Automatic emergency braking
• Auto high beams

Where they differ is the extra stuff that makes daily driving easier.

What I Like About Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 On The RAV4

• Pre-Collision System
• Lane Departure Alert
• Lane Tracing Assist
• Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with curve speed support
• Proactive Driving Assist

What I Like About Honda Sensing On The Passport

• Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow
• Lane Keeping Assist System
• Lane Departure Warning
• Traffic Sign Recognition
• Traffic Jam Assist
• Blind Spot Information System with Lane Change Assist
• Cross Traffic Monitor
• Driver Attention Monitor
• Parking sensors listed as front and rear on feature sheets

My real-world takeaway:

• If you spend a lot of time in stop-and-go traffic, I like the Passport’s Traffic Jam Assist feature set.
• If you want Toyota’s latest safety suite logic, the RAV4 is the one bringing the new generation.

Crash Test Results (The Stuff That Actually Gets Scored)

This is where I stop guessing and look at the data.

2026 Honda Passport (IIHS)

• Top Safety Pick+
• Small overlap front: Good
• Moderate overlap front updated test: Good
• Side updated test: Good
• Headlights: Good
• Front crash prevention vehicle-to-vehicle: Good
• Front crash prevention pedestrian: Good

2026 Toyota RAV4 (IIHS)

• Small overlap front: Good
• Moderate overlap front updated test: Marginal
• Side updated test: Acceptable
• Seat belt reminders: Good
• LATCH ease of use: Good+

My takeaway:

• If you want the strongest updated crash test ratings, I lean Passport.
• If you still want the RAV4, I do not panic. I just make sure the driver-assist features are configured the way I like, and I drive it like a normal human.

Reliability Expectations (What Owners Should Watch)

Both of these models are “new” in the way that matters.

• Passport is redesigned for 2026.
• RAV4 is also a new-generation launch for 2026.

That means early production can have small bugs. Most are software.

Here’s what I lean on for ownership cost expectations:

RepairPal Data (Useful For A Reality Check)

• Toyota RAV4 reliability rating: 4.0 out of 5.0
• Toyota RAV4 average annual repair cost: $429
• Honda Passport: RepairPal does not publish a reliability rating yet due to insufficient data
• Honda Passport annual repair cost data varies by source and model-year pool. RepairPal’s repair and maintenance page lists $371 per year on average for Passport.

What I personally watch on first-year models:

• Infotainment freezes or random reboots
• Camera calibration odd behavior after a windshield replacement
• Driver-assist sensors acting up in heavy rain or snow
• 12V battery issues if the car sits a lot

My buying tip:

• If you are the type who keeps a car 8 to 12 years, I like a trim with the features you want from day one.
• If you are risk-averse, a lease or a shorter ownership cycle is a smart play on any first-year redesign.

Recall Check Workflow (VIN Tools And What To Save)

This is the workflow I use. It takes 3 minutes.

Step 1: Run The VIN In Two Places

• NHTSA recall lookup
• The manufacturer recall lookup (Toyota or Honda)

Step 2: Screenshot The Results
Save these 2 screenshots:

• The “open recalls” page
• The recall detail page that shows the remedy

Step 3: Ask The Dealer For Proof
If the car is used, I ask for:

• The repair order showing the recall was completed
• The date and mileage when it was done

Step 4: Recheck Every 90 Days
Recalls can hit after you buy.
I set a calendar reminder.

Important recall note for RAV4 shoppers:

• Toyota issued a large recall covering certain 2022 to 2026 vehicles equipped with a Panoramic View Monitor system, related to the backup camera image freezing or not displaying in reverse. The fix is a software update.
• Some listings still show “0 recalls” for the 2026 RAV4 by model-year lookup. That does not replace a VIN check.

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Differentiator Section (This Is How We Beat The SERP)

Most comparison articles stop at specs.
This is the part I actually use to make the decision.

My Real-World Decision Matrix (Pick In 60 Seconds)

Pick the row that matches your life. Then buy the SUV in the last column.

Your Real Use Case	What Matters Most	I’d Pick	Why I Pick It
You Tow 3,000 To 5,000 lb	Tow rating, cooling, stability	Passport	5,000 lb tow rating. Tow mode. Premium fuel recommended over 3,500 lb.
You Drive 12,000 To 18,000 Miles Per Year	Fuel cost, stop-and-go comfort	RAV4 Hybrid	Big mpg gap versus a V6. Less fuel spend per month.
You Can Charge At Home	EV miles, cheap commuting	RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid	Up to 52 miles EV range on certain trims. Gas engine becomes backup.
You Do Long Highway Days With Family	Space, seat comfort, road calm	Passport	Bigger cabin feel. Better updated crash test scores.
You Live In A Tight City	Parking, turn-in, size	RAV4	Compact footprint. Easier to place in traffic and lots.
You Keep Cars 10 Years	Ownership cost patterns	RAV4	Strong model track record and lower annual repair cost metrics.

My 10-Minute Test Drive Scorecard (The Stuff You Feel)

I do this exact loop.

• 3 miles of city streets
• 3 miles of highway at 70 mph
• 3 minutes of parking lot maneuvers

Score each item 0 to 2 points.

• Seat comfort after 10 minutes
• Visibility at a 4-way stop
• Highway merge from 40 to 70 mph
• Brake feel at 25 mph
• Lane centering behavior with cruise on
• Road noise at 70 mph
• Screen response time when switching menus
• Phone connection time after start
• Rear seat comfort check. Sit back there.
• Cargo access. Load height and liftgate opening

Total possible: 20 points.

My rule:

• If one SUV wins by 4 points or more, I stop reading reviews and buy that one.

The One Pro Tip Most Buyers Miss

I always run insurance quotes before I pick a trim.

What I enter:

• Same deductible
• Same annual miles
• Same drivers
• Two trims that are actually comparable in price

Sometimes the more expensive SUV costs less to insure.
Sometimes the bigger engine trims cost more.
That number can change your monthly cost more than a 1 mpg difference.

Real-World Scenario Table (Pick Your Life, Get Your SUV)

This is the table I wish every comparison page started with.
Pick the row that matches your week. Then pick your trim.

Your Life Scenario	Best Choice	Why (One Sentence)	Trim Recommendation
60-Mile Daily Commuter	Toyota RAV4	A 22,000-mile year can burn about $1,900 more in fuel in a 21-mpg Passport vs a 44-mpg RAV4 Hybrid at $3.50 per gallon.	RAV4 LE FWD (47/40 est mpg) or SE FWD
2 Kids + 2 Car Seats	Honda Passport	You get 40.9 inches of rear legroom and 44.0 cu ft of cargo behind the second row, so car seats and strollers fit with less Tetris.	Passport RTL (family value) or TrailSport Elite (if you want the premium stuff)
3,200-Lb Camper	Honda Passport	A 5,000-lb tow rating gives you more margin than a 3,500-lb RAV4 setup when the trailer is loaded with water, gear, and food.	Passport TrailSport (hitch and 7-pin standard)
Snowbelt Driver	Toyota RAV4	Hybrid AWD trims can tow up to 3,500 lbs and still land around the low 40s mpg combined, so winter miles cost less.	RAV4 SE AWD (value) or Woodland AWD (snow and dirt-road vibe)
I Want To Keep It 8+ Years	Toyota RAV4	The RAV4 has a long track record, a 10-year or 150,000-mile hybrid battery warranty, and lower average annual repair cost benchmarks.	RAV4 XLE Premium (sweet spot) or Limited (comfort)

My quick rule:
If your life includes towing close to 3,500 lbs, I stop shopping the RAV4 and I buy the Passport.

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Trim Matchmaker (Apples-To-Apples Picks)

I’m going to match these like a real buyer. Not base trim vs base trim.

Best Value Pair (Passport RTL Vs RAV4 XLE / XLE Premium)

Real talk. For 2026, the “XLE” name matters less because Toyota pushes you toward XLE Premium as the mainstream comfort trim.

Key pricing and intent:

• Passport RTL starts at $44,950.
• RAV4 XLE Premium starts at $36,100.

How I’d choose:

• If you want the best cost-per-mile, I buy the RAV4 XLE Premium.
• If you want more cabin space and you plan to tow, I buy the Passport RTL.

My feature reality check:

• Every Passport gets a 12.3-inch screen with Google built-in and a 10.2-inch digital cluster.
• The RAV4 XLE Premium adds SofTex seats, heated fronts, a power liftgate, and front and rear parking assist.

My simple pick:

• Mostly commuting and errands. RAV4 XLE Premium.
• Adults in the back seat and big cargo loads. Passport RTL.

Adventure Pair (Passport TrailSport Vs RAV4 Woodland)

This is the matchup people actually mean when they say “weekend SUV.”

Key numbers:

• Passport TrailSport starts at $48,650 and tows 5,000 lbs.
• RAV4 Woodland starts at $39,900 and tows up to 3,500 lbs.
• Woodland is rated at 41/35 est mpg.

Adventure gear vibe:

• Woodland gets all-terrain tires, raised roof rails with cross bars, and integrated Rigid Industries LED fog lights.
• TrailSport leans into off-road tuning, drive modes, and TrailWatch camera support depending on equipment.

How I’d choose:

• If your “adventure” includes towing real weight, I buy TrailSport.
• If your “adventure” is dirt roads plus long highway days, I buy Woodland.

My quick call:

• Towing and space. Passport TrailSport.
• MPG and light trail vibes. RAV4 Woodland.

Top Trim Pair (TrailSport Elite Vs RAV4 Limited)

This one is about comfort features and daily tech, not just capability.

Key pricing:

• Passport TrailSport Elite starts at $52,650.
• RAV4 Limited starts at $43,300.

What you get on the Passport side:

• Ventilated front seats.
• Available panoramic moonroof.
• Bose premium audio.
• Big screen tech standard across trims.
• More cabin and cargo room.

What you get on the RAV4 side:

• Panoramic glass roof with power tilt and slide moonroof.
• JBL premium audio.
• Dual Qi-compatible wireless charging.
• Better MPG than any Passport.

How I’d choose:

• If you want maximum comfort features per dollar and you do lots of miles, I buy the RAV4 Limited.
• If you want premium features plus 5,000-lb towing and more space, I buy the Passport TrailSport Elite.

The Wild Card (RAV4 PHEV If You Want Max Efficiency Or Speed)

If you can plug in, this is the cheat code.

Here’s the why:

• Up to 52 miles of EV range on certain trims.
• 324 net combined horsepower.
• Toyota-estimated 41 mpg combined after the battery is depleted.

Here’s the catch:

• It costs more than the hybrid trims.
• You only get the big savings if you charge consistently.

My plug-in rule:

• If you can charge 4+ times per week and your daily drive is under 50 miles, I look at the RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid first.
• If you cannot charge most days, I stick with the regular RAV4 Hybrid and keep it simple.

Which One Should You Choose? (Decision By Buyer Type)

I’m going to pick for you based on how you actually use an SUV.

Commuter

I pick the RAV4 Hybrid.

Why:

• 2026 Passport RTL: 21 mpg combined.
• 2026 RAV4 Hybrid can be up to 44 mpg combined in the most efficient setup.

If you drive 15,000 miles a year at $3.50 per gallon:

• Passport at 21 mpg uses about 714 gallons. That is about $2,499.
• RAV4 Hybrid at 44 mpg uses about 341 gallons. That is about $1,193.
• Difference: about $1,306 per year.

Road Tripper

I split this one.

I pick the Passport if you travel with adults and luggage often.

• Rear legroom: 40.9 inches.
• Cargo behind the second row: 44.0 cu ft.
• Fuel tank: 18.5 gallons.

I pick the RAV4 if you want fewer fuel stops and lower trip cost.

• Much higher mpg.
• Easier parking at hotels and crowded rest stops.

Towing Owner

I pick the Passport if your trailer is heavy.

Tow ratings:

• Passport: 5,000 lbs.
• RAV4: up to 3,500 lbs on many trims.

My line in the sand:

• If your trailer is over 3,500 lbs loaded, I buy the Passport.

Also note:

• Honda recommends premium fuel when towing more than 3,500 lbs.

Family Buyer

I pick the Passport if the back seat is a daily place for humans.

• Rear legroom: 40.9 inches.
• Passenger volume: 115.4 cu ft.

I pick the RAV4 if the family budget is tight.

• Lower starting price.
• Lower fuel spend every month.

Outdoors Buyer

I pick based on what “outdoors” means for you.

If outdoors means towing and trail weekends, I pick Passport TrailSport.

• 5,000-lb towing.
• Trail and sand drive modes.
• Integrated hitch hardware on TrailSport trims.

If outdoors means dirt roads plus lots of highway miles, I pick RAV4 Woodland.

• Up to 3,500-lb towing on many AWD trims.
• Hybrid efficiency for long drives.

Lowest Cost Per Mile Buyer

I pick the RAV4 Hybrid.

You win in two places:

• Fuel.
• Long-term value retention benchmarks.

If you can charge at home, I also look hard at the RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid.

• Up to 52 miles EV range on certain trims.
• 324 net combined horsepower.

But the plug-in only pays off if you actually charge most days.

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FAQs

Is The Honda Passport Bigger Than The Toyota RAV4?

Yes.

Key numbers:

• Passenger volume: Passport 115.4 cu ft, RAV4 98.9 cu ft.
• Rear legroom: Passport 40.9 in, RAV4 37.8 in.
• Cargo behind 2nd row: Passport 44.0 cu ft, RAV4 37.8 cu ft.
• Max cargo: Passport 83.8 cu ft, RAV4 70.4 cu ft.

Which Is Better On Gas, Passport Or RAV4?

RAV4.

MPG snapshots:

• Passport RTL: 21 mpg combined.
• RAV4 Hybrid best-case estimate: up to 44 mpg combined.

Can A RAV4 Tow A Camper?

Sometimes.

RAV4 towing depends on trim:

• Many AWD trims: up to 3,500 lbs.
• Some trims are lower.

My rule:

• If your camper is over 3,500 lbs loaded, I buy the Passport.

Which Has Better Resale Value?

RAV4 in most market data.

5-year depreciation benchmarks:

• RAV4: 30.3%.
• Passport: 45.8%.

Is The Passport Worth The Extra Money?

It is worth it if you use what you’re paying for.

I’d pay extra for a Passport if you need:

• 5,000-lb towing.
• More rear-seat space.
• More cargo behind the second row.

I would not pay extra if your life is mostly commuting and errands.
In that case, I buy the RAV4 and keep the fuel savings.

Which Is Better For Snow?

Both can work. Tires still matter more than badges.

What I do:

• I buy winter tires first.
• Then I choose the SUV that matches my use.

If you want the simplest “snow plus mpg” answer, I lean RAV4 Hybrid AWD.
If you want snow plus towing plus space, I lean Passport.

Does The Passport Need Premium Gas?

Not day-to-day.

Passport fuel requirement:

• Regular unleaded.

Towing note:

• Premium is recommended when towing more than 3,500 lbs.

Sources

• Honda 2026 Passport Build And Price (MSRP By Trim)
• Toyota RAV4 Official Page (Pricing, Trims, Features)
• Edmunds Toyota RAV4 Overview
• Car And Driver Toyota RAV4 Overview
• TrueCar 2026 Toyota RAV4 Overview (Price Paid By Trim)