2016 Honda CR-V vs 2016 Toyota RAV4
Too Close to Call on Reliability Alone
These vehicles are neck-and-neck on reliability. The "Best For" breakdown below shows where each pulls ahead — pick the one that matches your priorities.
Reliability Side-by-Side
2016
Honda CR-V
Grade A-
A consistently reliable compact SUV with minor, well-documented issues that are often addressable.
2016
Toyota RAV4
Grade A-
A bulletproof compact SUV that delivers predictable, low-stress ownership for years to come.
Autojunket OSC · OSC Transfer
Sell your car for what it's worth.
Log every service. Sell with a signed PDF. Every receipt, mileage-verified, in the buyer's hands.
Cost of Ownership
| Line Item | 2016 Honda CR-V | 2016 Toyota RAV4 |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Maintenance | $400-600 | $400-600 |
| Moderate Repairs | $500-1,500 occasionally (e.g., AC compressor, VTC actuator, major brake job) | $500-1,500 occasionally |
| MPG (City/Hwy) | 26 / 33 | 23 / 30 |
| MSRP (New) | $23,845 | $24,350 |
Major-failure risk and insurance outlook for each vehicle are in their full reliability reports.
Biggest Risks on Each
2016 Honda CR-V
HVAC System
60,000-100,000 mi
Engine (VTC Actuator)
30,000-80,000 mi
Electrical/Infotainment
Any mileage mi
2016 Toyota RAV4
Infotainment System
Any mileage, often from new mi
Suspension Components
60,000-90,000 mi
HVAC Blower Motor
70,000-110,000 mi
Get the Full Report on Each
7-system breakdown, mileage danger zones, repair costs, and expert verdict for each vehicle.
Free · Instant delivery · No account required
Autojunket
Free
per report
Carfax
$44.99
per report
OSC
$9.99/mo
unlimited
Not sure yet? See a real, unblurred sample report →
Editorial Take
The 2016 Honda CR-V and the 2016 Toyota RAV4 stand as perennial rivals in the highly competitive compact SUV segment, consistently topping sales charts due to their blend of practicality, reliability, and family-friendly attributes. These two vehicles are ideal for individuals and small families seeking a versatile daily driver, offering ample cargo space, reasonable fuel efficiency, and a comfortable ride for both city commutes and longer road trips. Deciding between them often comes down to nuanced differences in driving dynamics, interior refinement, specific feature availability, and a slight edge in cargo capacity or fuel economy. Both are strong contenders for those prioritizing hassle-free ownership and robust resale value. HEAD-TO-
Reliability & Common Issues
2016 HONDA CR-V 1. HVAC/AC Compressor Issues: Some owners of 2015-2016 CR-V models have reported issues with the air conditioning system, including the compressor, leading to reduced cooling efficiency or complete failure. These problems sometimes manifest around 50,000 to 80,000 miles, requiring costly repairs outside of the basic warranty period. 2. Vibration at Idle/Low Speeds: A persistent complaint for some 2015 and 2016 CR-V owners is a noticeable vibration, particularly when the vehicle is stopped in drive or at very low speeds. The vibration can be felt through the steering wheel, seats, and floor. Honda issued service bulletins to address this, but a definitive, universal fix for all affected vehicles has not always been found, and some owners continue to experience the issue. 2016 TOYOTA RAV4 1. Transmission Irregularities: While generally reliable, some 2016 RAV4 owners have reported occasional rough or hesitant shifts from the six-speed automatic transmission, particularly at lower speeds or during cold starts. These are typically not indicative of major failure but can be a minor annoyance. 2. Water Pump Failure: There have been isolated reports of water pump leaks or failures in RAV4 models, including the 2016 year, typically occurring at mileages exceeding 60,000 miles. A failing water pump can lead to coolant loss and potential engine overheating if not addressed promptly.
Value & Cost of Ownership
Both the 2016 Honda CR-V and the 2016 Toyota RAV4 are renowned for their strong resale value and generally low cost of ownership. As new vehicles, their starting MSRPs were very close, with the CR-V being marginally less expensive. In the used market today, prices for both remain robust, reflecting their desirability. A used 2016 CR-V LX or EX, depending on mileage and condition, can typically range from $14,000 to $18,000. Similarly, a used 2016 RAV4 LE or XLE might fall within a similar range, perhaps $14,500 to $19,000, often holding its value slightly better in some regions. Insurance costs for both models are usually very similar and fall within the average range for compact SUVs, reflecting their safety ratings and repair costs. Maintenance costs are also quite competitive, with both brands having a reputation for reliability and readily available, affordable parts. Annual average maintenance costs are often estimated to be under $450 for both vehicles, with only routine servicing typically required. Toyota's reputation for mechanical simplicity and longevity might give it a slight edge in very long-term, high-mileage scenarios for some buyers, but the CR-V is not far behind. Both models are among the top performers in their class for retaining value over time, making them wise investments for buyers concerned with depreciation.
Parts & Accessories for These Vehicles
Products for 2016 Honda CR-V
Products for 2016 Toyota RAV4
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.