Used RAV4 or CR-V? What to check on 2019–2022 Canadian models

Photo example: Toyota RAV4. This comparison focuses on Canadian‑market 2019–2022 Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR‑V models for commuting and family duty.

What was sold in Canada (2019–2022)

Toyota RAV4: Gas models (FWD/AWD) were offered throughout 2019–2022, the RAV4 Hybrid (AWD) was available in these years, and the plug‑in hybrid RAV4 Prime launched for 2021 in Canada. These details come from Toyota Canada’s model launch materials. [Source: Toyota Canada media releases]

Honda CR‑V: 2019–2022 Canadian CR‑V models used a 1.5‑litre turbocharged gas engine with FWD or AWD across trims per Honda Canada specifications. There was no Canadian‑market CR‑V Hybrid on sale for 2019–2022; Honda introduced a Hybrid with the next generation for 2023. [Source: Honda Canada spec sheets/pages]

Built in Canada (context): Toyota Canada notes many fifth‑generation RAV4s, including Hybrid, were assembled at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada facilities in Woodstock and Cambridge. [Source: Toyota Canada media release]

AWD behaviour and towing: winter and family use

RAV4

• AWD hardware: Trail and Limited grades added Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD (2019+), which can route torque side‑to‑side at the rear for stability and disconnect the rear driveline to save fuel in steady cruising. [Source: Toyota Canada media release]
• Towing: When properly equipped, Trail/TRD Off‑Road trims are rated up to 1,590 kg (3,500 lb). Hybrids are typically lower. Verify the exact rating printed for the trim you’re buying. [Source: Toyota Canada media release]

CR‑V

• AWD hardware: Honda Canada lists Real Time AWD with Intelligent Control System across AWD trims during this period. [Source: Honda Canada spec sheet]
• Towing: Honda Canada specifications list 680 kg (1,500 lb) on most trims; confirm in the owner’s manual/spec sheet for the specific vehicle. [Source: Honda Canada spec sheets]

Fuel use: set realistic expectations

• RAV4: Toyota’s launch communications for the fifth‑gen model cite published combined ratings in the high‑7s to low‑8s L/100 km for gas models, and roughly 6.0 L/100 km combined for the Hybrid (varies by year/trim). Check the exact rating for the vehicle you’re considering. [Source: Toyota Canada media release]
• CR‑V: Honda Canada’s published consumption for 2022 ranged from the mid‑7s to mid‑8s L/100 km combined depending on FWD/AWD. Verify the figure that matches your trim and drivetrain. [Source: Honda Canada 2022 spec sheet]

Test‑drive checklist: issues to screen before you buy

2019–2022 Honda CR‑V (1.5T)

• Cold‑weather oil/fuel dilution context: Honda Canada addressed irregularly high oil levels on certain earlier vehicles (2017–2018 CR‑V/Civic) via a no‑charge product update and extended some component warranties. 2019–2022 models incorporated countermeasures, but if you live in a very cold region or do mostly short trips, confirm warm‑up behaviour, cabin heat, and oil condition during a pre‑purchase inspection; review service logs and ask about any powertrain updates. Also check the VIN for any outstanding updates. [Source: Honda Canada statement]

2019–2022 Toyota RAV4

• Front lower suspension arm recall (VIN‑specific): Toyota announced a 2020 recall campaign in North America for certain 2019–2020 RAV4/RAV4 Hybrid concerning potential front lower suspension arm material defects tied to specific production windows. Run the VIN with Toyota and review official recall records to confirm status on any used example. [Source: Toyota/NHTSA recall communication]

Records and verifications that save headaches

• Service history (CR‑V): Honda Canada notes dealer service records are not centrally stored by Honda; ask the seller for printed service history and Maintenance Minder logs. [Source: Honda Canada Owners FAQ]
• Maintenance schedule (RAV4): Use Toyota Canada’s maintenance schedule portal to confirm time‑ and distance‑based services (fluids, filters, brake inspections) are up to date for the exact year and powertrain. [Source: Toyota Canada maintenance schedule]
• Recall status: Because some campaigns (like the RAV4 suspension arm) are VIN‑ and build‑window specific, use the manufacturer’s VIN lookup and confirm completion before making an offer. [Source: Toyota/NHTSA recall communication]

Winter prep that matters

• Tires first: AWD helps you go; winter‑rated tires help you stop and turn on cold, snowy or icy roads. Prioritize a proper winter set and verify tread depth and age during your inspection.
• Cold‑start check: On a cold engine, confirm prompt starting, stable idle, quick cabin heat and clear defogging performance during your test drive.
• Battery and fluids: Ask your mechanic to load‑test the battery and verify coolant and washer fluid are suited to your climate as part of the pre‑purchase inspection.
• Insurance question worth asking: Some insurers offer discounts tied to winter tires or telematics. Ask your provider what applies to you and what proof they require.

Trim and feature shopping notes (Canada)

• RAV4 Hybrid availability: If you want hybrid fuel savings in these years, the RAV4 Hybrid was available throughout 2019–2022, and the plug‑in RAV4 Prime joined for 2021—confirm charging equipment and OEM guidance with a Toyota dealer for any Prime. [Source: Toyota Canada media releases]
• CR‑V powertrain consistency: For 2019–2022 Canadian CR‑Vs, trims primarily change features and wheels; the engine is the 1.5‑litre turbo across the board per Honda Canada specs. [Source: Honda Canada spec sheets]

Quick pre‑purchase checklist

• Confirm the exact Canadian trim, drivetrain and options on the VIN (don’t assume U.S. equipment applies).
• Match towing and fuel economy to the specific year/trim using the maker’s documentation. [Sources: Toyota Canada; Honda Canada]
• Review complete service history; for CR‑V, get Maintenance Minder logs. [Source: Honda Canada Owners FAQ]
• Run a full VIN recall check with the manufacturer; for RAV4, confirm any suspension‑arm campaign completion. [Source: Toyota/NHTSA recall communication]
• Plan for winter: fit proper winter tires and include a cold‑start, heater and defogging check on your test drive.

Note: This article is educational, not personal financial or legal advice.