Toyota C-HR vs RAV4 vs bZ4X SUVs - Which is Better?
In this article, we compare three of the most popular SUVs from Toyota, to help you decide which is better.
Toyota has always been renowned for quality and reliability. While originally known for smaller, compact models like the Prius, Yaris, and Aygo, the line-up now includes some striking SUVs.
The Toyota C-HR, RAV4, and bZ4X each meet the demands of modern drivers. They offer ideal space for families, advanced technology, and efficient powertrains - making them cheaper to run.
But how do you choose between the three? Read on for a comparison of the Toyota C-HR, RAV4, and bZ4X.
Size and space
When it comes to size, the Toyota C-HR is your mid-side compact SUV. Meanwhile, the RAV4 and bZ4X are similar in size, offering that extra space if you’re looking for a larger SUV for your adventures.
Measurements for each model are:
| Toyota C-HR | 4,362 | 1,832 | 1,564 |
| Toyota RAV4 | 4,600-4,620 | 1,855 | 1,685-1,690 |
| Toyota bZ4X | 4,690 | 1,860 | 1,650 |
The C-HR offers a light, airy interior despite its smaller size – aided by a fixed panoramic glass sunroof. This feature is also available with the RAV4 and bZ4X. With their longer wheelbases, the RAV4 and bZ4X offer a more spacious interior with more leg and headroom.If you need space for lots of luggage, the RAV4 is the winner here. Although compact, the RAV4 still manages to offer 580 litres of boot space, increased to 1,189 litres with the rear seats folded.
The C-HR offers the least amount of boot space with between 310-388 litres on offer. The bZ4X takes second place with 451 litres of boot space – surprisingly for a model of its size. This, however, is the price you pay for having more space for your rear passengers.
All three Toyota SUVs offer a practical amount of boot space, giving you plenty to store any shopping or luggage. If you can tolerate less boot space, you’ll enjoy a more spacious, comfortable interior.
Design
The Toyota C-HR, RAV4, and bZ4X each feature striking SUV styling that gives them all a distinctive road presence. Features may vary depending on the trim, though comfort, style, and practicality are all guaranteed.
The Toyota C-HR stands out with its imposing front grille, striking LED headlamps and large 20” alloy wheels. Muscular curves and geometric shapes create an unmissable profile, with a choice of attractive body colours. Inside, ergonomic sports seats and satin chrome accents add a sporty, high-end feel.
The Toyota RAV4 also looks the part with 18” dark silver alloy wheels, elegant front LEDs and a bold silhouette. Its lowered weight and centre of gravity allows for improved driver visibility along with a stronger chassis. Stepping into the cabin, you’ll find dynamic sports seats and soft-touch materials, along with plenty of storage options.
The Toyota bZ4X presents a bold exterior, featuring 18” five double-spoke alloy wheels, rear side wing doors, and a sporty shark fin antenna. The interior features Nordic-inspired textures and satin finishes for style and comfort. These are made using recycled materials for added sustainability.
With their striking exterior profiles and high-quality crafted interiors, it’s hard to say which SUV offers the best design. Whichever you choose, you’re sure to feel comfortable and at home on the road - no matter how long the journey.
Performance
Getting down to performance, there’s one thing the Toyota C-HR, RAV4 and bZ4X share in common – efficient powertrains. Both the Toyota C-HR and RAV4 are available as either a self-charging hybrid or plug-in hybrid SUV. These two powertrains offer greater fuel efficiency with a combination of petrol and electric power.
Starting with the C-HR, the fifth-generation hybrid offers three driving modes, producing 57.6-60.1mpg and between 105-111g/km CO2. Meanwhile, the plug-in hybrid offers up to 41 miles (WLTP) electric range, with between 313.8-353.1mpg and produces just 19-20g/km CO2.
The Toyota RAV4 hybrid offers between 47-49.5mpg, producing between 129-137g/km CO2. The PHEV allows you to drive up to 46 miles (WLTP) in electric mode, producing just 22g/km of CO2 and up to 282.4mpg.
Charging for both the Toyota C-HR and RAV4 PHEVs is relatively simple using the onboard charger and a wallbox power supply. The C-HR charges to full in around 2.5 hours while the RAV4 takes around two hours and 45 minutes.
So, what about performance? The 2.0-litre PHEV is the fastest C-HR, with 220bhp allowing it to go from 0-62mph in 7.2 seconds (unlike the 1.8-litre which reaches the mark in 10.2 seconds). For the RAV4, it’s the 2.5-litre PHEV that takes the spot, with 306bhp enabling 0-62mph in just six seconds.
The C-HR offers a responsive drive with its selectable drive modes, while the RAV4 impresses on the road with its weighted steering and firm grip.
The bZ4X is the odd one out since it is only available as a fully-electric vehicle. It offers up to 318 miles of range on a single charge with a choice of fast charging options. X-Mode All Wheel Drive (AWD) brings you greater control in more challenging driving conditions. Plus, features like apertures in the front bumper corners and front and rear spoilers improve aerodynamics.
A high-efficiency energy heat pump draws energy from external sources to heat the cabin. So you can keep the cabin comfortable without compromising on range. The AWD version gives you more power with 214bhp, reaching 62mph in a quicker 6.9 seconds.
Judging on performance, the Toyota RAV4 appears to offer the best, with more power and control on the road. In terms of driving experience, the bZ4X takes the trophy with its smooth, near-silent electric powertrain.
That said, even with the hybrid or plug-in hybrid C-HR and RAV4, you will still notice a much smoother drive than your average petrol or diesel car.
Specification and equipment
Looking at trims and specifications, all three Toyota SUVs give you plenty of choice to make it your own.
Available trims for each model include:
| Icon | x | ||
| Design | x | x | |
| Excel | x | x | |
| GR Sport | x | x | |
| Premiere Edition | x | ||
| Motion | x | ||
| Pure | x | ||
| Vision | x |
The SUV trio is packed with fantastic features to enhance your comfort and driving experience. We’ve outlined some of the key features for each:
Toyota C-HR:
- Responsive ambient lighting
- Immersive surround sound
- Customisable digital combimeter
- Wireless charging tray in cockpit
- Power boot function
Toyota RAV4:
- 10.25” Toyota Smart Connect multimedia system
- 12.3” digital combimeter
- Power tailgate
- Rear parking sensors and reverse camera
- Smart entry & push-button start
Toyota bZ4X:
- Slim, low-set instrument panel providing key driving information
- 8” touchscreen display
- 12V power outlet in front
- Illuminated entry system
- User-friendly dashboard with large buttons and dials
Each model offers an impressive level of standard equipment, making it hard to pick a winner! A bonus is that all three SUVs can be paired with the MyToyota app on your smartphone. This brings you remote access, plus all your vehicle and servicing information on demand.
They also all come with wireless smartphone connectivity, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Not to mention a wide range of driver assistance features for increased control and safety, and a stress-free drive.
Price and running costs
As far as pricing goes, there isn’t exactly a clear winner in this area either. As three similar SUVs, you’ll find the Toyota C-HR, RAV4 and bZ4X are not that far away in price.
OTR Prices start from £34,685 for the C-HR, £39,885 for the RAV4, and £42,860 for the bZ4X. With our choice of flexible finance options, you can spread the cost and focus on what’s more important – enjoying your new Toyota!
The bZ4X will be the best performer when it comes to running costs. As a fully electric vehicle, it allows you to benefit from fuel savings and zero road tax (until 1st April 2025), and no congestion zone charges. You’ll also see much lower maintenance costs with fewer moving parts to replace over time.
The C-HR and RAV4’s choice of hybrid powertrains still offer lower running costs compared to owning a petrol or diesel vehicle. You’ll enjoy lower fuel costs, higher fuel economy, and reduced road tax.
Toyota C-HR vs RAV4 vs bZ4X – which is better?
The Toyota C-HR, RAV4 and bZ4X are all fantastic, versatile SUVs that cater to a wide range of needs. When determining which of these is best for you, this depends on your preferences.
If you don’t want to drive a fully electric car, then a C-HR or RAV4 hybrid will be great for you. Similarly, if you’re looking for higher performance and traditional SUV style, the RAV4 is sure to appeal. For technology and style enthusiasts, the fully electric bZ4X will certainly call out to you.
The best way to decide which Toyota SUV is right for you? Book a test drive at your local Vertu Toyota centre. Our expert team will be happy to walk you through the range and help you get a feel of what’s right for you.
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