@ Toyota Motor Corporation
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
VS

Toyota RAV4 vs VW Passat – Which car suits you better?

Compare performance, boot capacity, efficiency and price at a glance.
Find out which car is the better choice for you – Toyota RAV4 or VW Passat?

RAV4 @ Toyota Motor Corporation

The Battle of Versatility: Toyota RAV4 vs. VW Passat

In the diverse world of automobiles, the Toyota RAV4 and VW Passat have persistently held pivotal positions on drivers' wish lists. Although they hail from distinct automotive categories—the RAV4 as an SUV and the Passat as a wagon—they both claim to offer a perfect balance of performance, efficiency, and innovation. Let's delve deeper into these two automotive icons to explore their technical prowess and avant-garde features.

Passat @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Performance Powerhouses

Both the Toyota RAV4 and VW Passat present a plethora of engine configurations catering to the discerning driver.

The RAV4 flaunts robust power options, highlighted by its hybrid variants. With power outputs ranging from 218 to 306 HP, coupled with a CVT automatic transmission, the RAV4 ensures a spirited drive. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h occurs in an impressive 6 seconds for its highest-performing hybrid variant. The all-wheel-drive option further enhances off-road prospects, underscoring its versatility.

On the flip side, the Passat lineup shines with its wide power range, from an efficient 150 HP to a vigorous 272 HP in its top-tier petrol model. The Passat's use of a dual-clutch automatic transmission ensures swift gear changes, providing a smooth and responsive drive. Its quickest version can sprint to 100 km/h in just 5.8 seconds, emphasizing its performance-oriented design.

RAV4 @ Toyota Motor Corporation

Efficiency and Environmental Consciousness

In today's automotive age, efficiency is pivotal. Both models come equipped with features to maximize fuel economy while minimizing emissions.

The RAV4's hybrid models exhibit remarkable fuel efficiency, with consumption rates as low as 1 L/100km and an electric range of up to 75 km. The CO2 emissions sit at a commendable 22 g/km, marking a notable triumph in eco-friendliness.

The VW Passat emerges as a worthy competitor with its plug-in hybrid versions, which offer a spectacular electric range of up to 126 km and a minimal fuel consumption rate of 0.4 L/100km. Its CO2 figures start as low as 8 g/km, underscoring its commitment to sustainability.

Passat @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Space and Comfort

Whether it’s families or adventurers, space is always a compelling factor.

The RAV4, designed with practicality in mind, offers a substantial trunk capacity of 580 liters, accommodating most hauling needs with ease. Its 5-door configuration and spacious interior ensure comfort for all occupants.

The Passat, meanwhile, exhibits expert craftsmanship in interior design. It extends a maximum trunk capacity of 690 liters—one of the highest in its class—making it an excellent choice for those with greater storage needs.

RAV4 @ Toyota Motor Corporation

Technical Innovations

Modern drivers seek cutting-edge technology, and neither the RAV4 nor Passat disappoints.

The RAV4 integrates a suite of tech innovations, including advanced safety features and a highly intuitive infotainment system. Its hybrid technology underscores Toyota's emphasis on forward-thinking engineering.

VW's Passat also mirrors this focus on innovation with its advanced driver assistance systems and state-of-the-art infotainment solutions. The dual-clutch transmission technology further demonstrates VW's commitment to future-ready automotive solutions.

Passat @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Conclusion: A Distinctive Choice for Every Driver

The choice between the Toyota RAV4 and VW Passat largely depends on your lifestyle and driving preferences. The RAV4 thrives with its unparalleled versatility and eco-efficient hybrid technologies, a hallmark for those desiring an SUV experience with sustainability in mind.

Conversely, the VW Passat appeals to those who prioritize a performance-driven yet spacious wagon, replete with a comprehensive range of engine options and seamless technology integration. Ultimately, both models stand as beacons of automotive excellence, each defining its segment's pinnacle.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

RAV4 @ Toyota Motor Corporation

Costs and Efficiency:

When it comes to price and running costs, the biggest differences usually appear. This is often where you see which car fits your budget better in the long run.

Toyota RAV4 has a slight advantage in terms of price – it starts at 35100 £, while the VW Passat costs 35700 £. That’s a price difference of around 600 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Toyota RAV4 manages with 1 L and is therefore somewhat more efficient than the VW Passat with 1.20 L. The difference is about 0.20 L per 100 km.

As for range, the VW Passat performs convincingly better – achieving up to 135 km, about 60 km more than the Toyota RAV4.

Passat @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the Toyota RAV4 has a a bit edge – offering 306 HP compared to 272 HP. That’s roughly 34 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the VW Passat is barely noticeable quicker – completing the sprint in 5.80 s, while the Toyota RAV4 takes 6 s. That’s about 0.20 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the VW Passat performs clearly perceptible better – reaching 250 km/h, while the Toyota RAV4 tops out at 180 km/h. The difference is around 70 km/h.

Space and Everyday Use:

Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, VW Passat is somewhat lighter – 1573 kg compared to 1745 kg. The difference is around 172 kg.

In terms of boot space, the VW Passat offers a bit more room – 690 L compared to 580 L. That’s a difference of about 110 L.

In maximum load capacity, the VW Passat performs a bit better – up to 1920 L, which is about 230 L more than the Toyota RAV4.

When it comes to payload, Toyota RAV4 hardly perceptible takes the win – 600 kg compared to 577 kg. That’s a difference of about 23 kg.

Who wins the race?

The VW Passat proves to be edges ahead and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
VW Passat is the better all-rounder in this comparison.

from about £35,700
Passat @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

VW Passat

  • Engine Type : Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : All-Wheel Drive, Front-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 122 - 272 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 1.2 - 8 L
  • Electric Range : 124 - 135 km
details

Toyota RAV4

5 (1)
rate

The Toyota RAV4 feels like a sensible friend on the road, marrying dependable practicality with a dash of SUV personality that keeps daily driving from turning dull. Comfortable and easy to live with, it looks tough without shouting and quietly gets the job done — a sensible pick for buyers who want versatility without drama.

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73487-rav4prexterior34front-web-lr @ Toyota Motor Corporation
73488-rav4prexterior34rear-web-lr @ Toyota Motor Corporation
77636-2023rav4ext001-web-lr @ Toyota Motor Corporation
73489-rav4printeriordashboard-web-lr @ Toyota Motor Corporation

VW Passat

The VW Passat is the grown-up family car that gets the basics absolutely right — roomy, comfortable and built to handle weekday commutes and weekend getaways without fuss. It won't set your pulse racing, but its calm composure and sensible packaging make it boring in the best possible way: a dependable, no‑drama choice for buyers who value practicality over flash.

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DB2019AU00685_large @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
DB2019AU00698_large @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
DB2019AU00117_large @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
DB2019AU00642_large @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

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Costs and Consumption
Price
35100 - 55700 £
Price
35700 - 58500 £
Consumption L/100km
1 - 5.6 L
Consumption L/100km
1.2 - 8 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
75 km
Electric Range
124 - 135 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
19.70 kWh
co2
22 - 128 g/km
co2
28 - 181 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
55 L
Fuel tank capacity
45 - 66 L

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
Estate
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1745 - 1910 kg
Curb weight
1573 - 1858 kg
Trunk capacity
520 - 580 L
Trunk capacity
510 - 690 L
Length
4600 mm
Length
4917 mm
Width
1855 mm
Width
1849 mm
Height
1685 mm
Height
1521 mm
Max trunk capacity
1604 - 1690 L
Max trunk capacity
1770 - 1920 L
Payload
390 - 600 kg
Payload
501 - 577 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Full Hybrid, Plugin Hybrid
Engine Type
Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
CVT
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive, Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
218 - 306 HP
Power HP
122 - 272 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
6 - 8.4 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.8 - 10.7 s
Max Speed
180 km/h
Max Speed
212 - 250 km/h
Torque
-
Torque
250 - 400 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
160 - 225 kW
Power kW
90 - 200 kW
Engine capacity
2487 cm3
Engine capacity
1498 - 1984 cm3

General
Model Year
2024 - 2025
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, B
CO2 Efficiency Class
G, D, E, B
Brand
Toyota
Brand
VW

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What drive types are available for the Toyota RAV4?

Available configurations include Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.