Compare performance (300 HP vs 309 HP), boot space and price (37,700 £ vs 37,700 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Renault Rafale or Toyota RAV4?
All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.
The automotive market is constantly evolving, and two prominent contenders in the SUV segment have emerged: the Renault Rafale and the Toyota RAV4. With each offering a unique set of capabilities, technologies, and design philosophies, this comparison will explore how these vehicles stack up against each other in various aspects such as performance, efficiency, and technology.
Starting with aesthetics, both vehicles showcase distinctive styling that appeals to modern SUV buyers. The Renault Rafale measures 4710 mm in length, 1886 mm in width, and stands at 1613 mm tall, making it slightly larger than the Toyota RAV4, which comes in at 4600 mm long, 1855 mm wide, and 1685 mm high. The Rafale’s more pronounced width contributes to a confident stance, while the RAV4's bold lines give it a rugged SUV appearance.
Both the Rafale and RAV4 feature hybrid powertrains, with the Rafale offering options of a Full Hybrid and a Plugin Hybrid, delivering up to 300 HP and 221 kW. The Toyota RAV4, on the other hand, produces between 218 HP and a maximum of 306 HP, depending on the variant. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h is slightly better in the Rafale with figures of 6.4 seconds for the Plugin Hybrid variant compared to the RAV4's 6 seconds in its most powerful form.
Efficiency is a key consideration for eco-conscious consumers. The Rafale boasts an impressive consumption rate as low as 4.7 L/100km with CO2 emissions of just 106 g/km. The RAV4, while slightly less fuel-efficient, delivers a competitive consumption rate of 5.6 L/100km with emissions of 126 g/km. The Rafale's electric range is noteworthy, allowing for up to 97 km on electric power alone, while the RAV4 achieves 75 km.
Both SUVs comfortably seat five passengers, but the Rafale takes a slight edge in cargo space, offering 627 L in the trunk compared to the 580 L of the RAV4. This added space makes the Rafale a more practical choice for families or those needing extra storage. Both vehicles feature modern interiors with infotainment systems designed to cater to the needs of tech-savvy drivers, including large touchscreen displays and smartphone connectivity.
The driving dynamics of both SUVs are enhanced by their respective automatic transmissions—Renault's conventional gearbox and Toyota’s CVT. The compatibility of the powertrains with front-wheel drive configurations contributes to their overall performance. However, the RAV4 offers an All-Wheel Drive option, making it a versatile choice for various driving conditions.
In terms of safety, both the Rafale and RAV4 are packed with advanced safety features. They include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and multiple airbags. The reputation of Toyota for reliability and longevity further bolsters the RAV4's standing in this category, while Renault has also made significant strides in safety, earning commendations for its advanced driver-assistance systems.
In conclusion, both the Renault Rafale and the Toyota RAV4 have their strengths and cater to different customer preferences. The Rafale excels in efficiency and cargo space, while the RAV4 provides a robust performance with additional driving options thanks to its All-Wheel Drive capability. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your specific driving needs, brand loyalty, and which features resonate more with your lifestyle. Whichever you choose, both SUVs represent a solid choice in today's competitive automotive landscape.
Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.
Toyota RAV4 is barely cheaper – starting at 37,700 £ , while the Renault Rafale costs 37,700 £ . That’s a price difference of around 9 £.
Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the Toyota RAV4 uses 1.3 L/100km and is significantly more efficient than the Renault Rafale with 2 L/100km. The difference is about 0.7 L/100km.
As for electric range, the Toyota RAV4 offers markedly more range – reaching up to 137 km, about 40 km more than the Renault Rafale.
Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.
When it comes to engine power, the Toyota RAV4 offers marginally more power – delivering 309 HP compared to 300 HP. That’s roughly 9 HP more horsepower.
When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Toyota RAV4 is slightly quicker – completing the sprint in 5.8 s, while the Renault Rafale takes 6.4 s. That’s about 0.6 s quicker.
Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.
Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.
In terms of curb weight, Toyota RAV4 is barely lighter – 1,655 kg compared to 1,734 kg. The difference is around 79 kg.
Looking at boot space, the Renault Rafale offers somewhat more boot space – 627 L compared to 514 L. That’s a difference of about 113 L.
When it comes to payload, the Toyota RAV4 carries visibly more – 610 kg compared to 444 kg. That’s a difference of about 166 kg.
The Toyota RAV4 holds a decisive overall lead in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.
The Renault Rafale dresses bold coupé-inspired lines around a practical crossover body, turning heads without trying too hard. Inside it serves up a comfortable, well-equipped cabin and engaging driving manners, making it a clever choice for buyers who want a bit of panache with their daily commute.
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The Toyota RAV4 is a well-rounded compact SUV that pairs everyday practicality with a comfortable, composed ride and generous cargo space, making it a sensible choice for families and active lifestyles. Its strong reputation for reliability, efficient drivetrains, and straightforward technology gives it wide appeal whether you value economy, comfort, or capability.
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Costs and Consumption |
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Price
37,700 - 49,700 £
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Price
37,700 - 54,200 £
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Consumption L/100km
2 - 5 L/100km
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Consumption L/100km
1.3 - 5.3 L/100km
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Consumption kWh/100km
-
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Consumption kWh/100km
-
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Electric Range
97 km
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Electric Range
133 - 137 km
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Battery Capacity
-
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Battery Capacity
-
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co2
43 - 108 g/km
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co2
30 - 121 g/km
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Fuel tank capacity
-
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Fuel tank capacity
-
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Dimensions and Body |
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Body Type
SUV
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Body Type
SUV
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Seats
5
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Seats
5
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Doors
-
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Doors
-
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Curb weight
1,734 - 2,025 kg
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Curb weight
1,655 - 1,960 kg
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Trunk capacity
539 - 627 L
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Trunk capacity
446 - 514 L
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Length
-
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Length
-
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Width
1,886 mm
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Width
1,880 mm
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Height
-
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Height
-
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Max trunk capacity
-
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Max trunk capacity
-
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Payload
415 - 444 kg
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Payload
515 - 610 kg
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Engine and Performance |
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Engine Type
Full Hybrid, Plugin Hybrid
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Engine Type
Full Hybrid, Plugin Hybrid
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Transmission
Automatic
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Transmission
Automatic
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Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox
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Transmission Detail
CVT
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Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
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Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
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Power HP
200 - 300 HP
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Power HP
185 - 309 HP
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
6.4 - 8.9 s
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.8 - 8 s
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Max Speed
-
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Max Speed
-
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Torque
-
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Torque
-
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Number of Cylinders
3
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Number of Cylinders
4
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Power kW
147 - 221 kW
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Power kW
136 - 227 kW
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Engine capacity
1,199 cm3
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Engine capacity
2,487 cm3
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General |
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Model Year
2025
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Model Year
2026
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CO2 Efficiency Class
C, B
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CO2 Efficiency Class
C, D, B
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Brand
Renault
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Brand
Toyota
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Deutschland
France
Nederland
Great Britain
Sverige
Danmark
Suomi
Italia
Polska
Česko
España