Toyota RAV4 or Honda CR-V: which SUV should you buy in Benin?
Compare the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V in Benin: practical strengths, drawbacks and asking-price references to help you choose a used SUV.
Looking for a used family SUV in Cotonou? Both the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V deserve a look. The CR-V is worth comparing if your purchase budget is tight. The 2013 RAV4 is also worth considering if you want a six-speed automatic. Between two actual listings, however, favour maintenance and condition over the badge.
Toyota RAV4: useful cargo space, but check the model year
Its advantage: the RAV4 can suit families carrying groceries or luggage. The US-market 2013 model combines five seats, a 2.5-litre petrol engine and a six-speed automatic. Its roof-hinged tailgate makes the boot easy to access.
Its drawback: a 2012 RAV4 and a 2013 RAV4 are not the same vehicle. The previous generation has a side-opening rear door. Check the year, engine and version before comparing prices.
Our advice: try opening the boot in a space similar to your usual parking spot. Paying more for the Toyota name makes little sense if the maintenance and condition do not justify it. Toyota’s 2013 specifications (opens in a new tab) .
Honda CR-V: an alternative to compare before spending more
Its advantage: the US-market 2013 CR-V has five seats, a 2.4-litre petrol engine and a five-speed automatic. Its folding rear seat creates more room for luggage. In our sample of 2009–2013 models, its average asking price is lower than the RAV4’s.
Its drawback: a lower asking price does not prove that maintenance will be cheaper. A neglected car can wipe out your initial saving. The 2013 model’s specifications do not automatically apply to newer CR-Vs.
Our advice: compare a CR-V with a RAV4 in similar condition and at a similar price. Have the transmission checked during a test drive and ask your mechanic to quote for any repairs. Honda’s 2013 specifications (opens in a new tab) .
What do 2009–2013 models cost?
| Used model | Model years | Average asking price | Listings studied |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota RAV4 | 2009–2013 | 4,680,000 CFA | 141 |
| Honda CR-V | 2009–2013 | 3,920,000 CFA | 34 |
These reference figures come from listings recorded in Benin in August 2026. They are asking prices, not completed sales or guaranteed current prices. Customs status was not recorded. Differences in exact year, version and condition may explain part of the gap between the averages.
Which should you choose?
Start with the CR-V if keeping the purchase price down matters most. The table gives you a reason to compare it, without promising that every CR-V listing will be cheaper.
Consider the 2013 RAV4 if you want its upward-opening tailgate and six-speed automatic. Confirm the actual version: equipment varies by country of origin.
If you need seven seats, widen your search. Both US-market 2013 models described here have five seats. An SUV is not automatically a seven-seater.
Before choosing a listing
Bring your mechanic. Ask for a cold start, test the air conditioning and have the transmission, brakes, tyres and signs of previous repairs checked. Match the chassis number to the paperwork too.
Ask what the seller’s price includes, then compare the total with any required repairs. Our used-car inspection checklist can help you prepare for the visit.