RAV 4 is not a bad crossover but there are better ones. I have been riding one for two years plus now. It just troubled me once. My engine light came in and it took a month for a Toyota workshop to fix it even though it was just a misfire code. The worst part of Toyota at this time is its resale value. My car costs less than that I owe to the bank right now. CRV is a good substitute but I think CRV is smaller than RAV4. I don't know about the mileage difference though. If you are looking for a crossover the best choice I think is Subaru Outback. It also depends upon where you live, do you need a 4 wheel drive or an all wheel drive? And if you are looking for dashing car then choosing a Ford is not a bad idea. The only thing with Ford is you should sell it or exchange for another within next two year, you cannot ride it to dust. Read more reviews from people who owned such cars. RAV4 has a forum and you can see what they say. The other is call Car Talk (NPR). They will give you good suggestions and you will be aired. Good luck.