I'm sorta in the market, so I test drove a 2019 RAV4 Hybrid in XLE trim back-to-back with ah 2019 CX-5 GT-R. I have to be honest and say I was more impressed with the Toyota drivetrain - the hybrid setup just seemed smoother and more refined with a little more power when you really romped on it. The CX-5 example I drove seemed less smooth and coarser than the non-turbos I've driven, although the extra power was nice. Maybe I was driving a green car that would smooth out later.
Very enamored with the HUD in the CX-5. This is super-cool technology and anything that keeps you eyes up and on the road seems like a huge win. If I get a CX-5, it will have the HUD.
The interior was a win for the CX-5. The RAV4 was harder to get in/out of and my wife seemed particularly bothered by the interior - she thought it looked cheap. I was Okay with it.
Since the wife and I aren't in agreement, we'll stay on the sidelines and see what the tide brings in. But I have to say that I'm starting to think my next car will be hybrid or maybe even pure electric. I love motoring away from a stop with electric torque, no engine noise, no gear changes.....just smooth thrust. Toyota's hybrid systems are really nice and super fuel efficient - the RAV4 hybrid ratings are 40 mpg combined.
- Mark