New Special Edition trim level.Nine-speed automatic now standard on all Pilot trim levels.Base LX trim gets dual-zone climate control.
Pros A versatile, roomy interior with spacious rear seats Smooth and compliant ride in most conditions Better fuel economy than rivals Many clever storage compartments
Cons Collision warning and adaptive cruise control are overly sensitive Third-row access is narrow
The 2021 Honda Pilot's #12 ranking is based on its score within the Midsize SUVs category. Currently the Honda Pilot has a score of 7.8 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 48 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Smooth ride Adult-friendly seating Respectable cargo room
Cons Poor predicted reliability rating Limited standard infotainment tech
The 2021 Honda Pilot does a solid impression of a minivan, minus the cultural baggage..
Pros Seats up to eight adults—really Strong V-6 power Active safety tech comes standard Infotainment’s good (except for LX)
Cons Skimpy 5.0-inch base touchscreen Loses the panache wars to Hyundai/Kia 9-speed bobbles the occasional shift Top trims are pricey
The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid's #2 ranking is based on its score within the Hybrid and Electric SUVs category. It is the winner of our 2021 Best Hybrid and Electric SUV for the Money award and a finalist for our 2021 Best Hybrid and Electric SUV for Families award. Currently the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid has a score of 8.0 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 23 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Energetic powertrain Great gas mileage Spacious, handsome cabin Plenty of standard features Ample cargo space
Cons Road noise permeates the cabin
The Toyota RAV4 plug-in hybrid (PHEV) has an impressive all-electric range and low emissions, but the extremely high list price limits its appeal for private buyers and company car buyers alike. The regular front-wheel drive RAV4 hybrid is the sweet spot in the range. It’s fairly ordinary to drive, but strong resale values, astounding economy and a fantastic reliability record make it a tempting option in the large SUV category.
Pros Exceedingly frugal Regular hybrid has slow predicted depreciation Strong reliability record
Cons Terrible infotainment system Rivals are better to drive No seven-seat option
The standard RAV4 Hybrid receives a new mid-range XLE Premium trim for 2021, but the big news this year is the introduction of the plug-in hybrid RAV4 Prime models. The RAV4 Prime is the most powerful RAV4 offered with a total of 302 horsepower between its gas engine and electric motors; it also offers a claimed 42 miles of electric-only driving per charge.
Pros Strong acceleration, driver-assistance tech is standard, roomy cabin.
Cons Prices start above $30,000, uninvolving handling, most desirable features quickly increase the price.
