2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid vs 2022 Lincoln Navigator

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Limited, priced at $42,083, presented a fully-loaded package that seemed excessive for a RAV4. Despite its high-end features, it resembled a standard rental car model. The trim level lacked the larger wheels found on the non-hybrid RAV4 Limited, and the electronic all-wheel-drive system wasn't robust enough for an Adventure trim level. The RAV4 Hybrid had a tough exterior, but it needed bolder wheels to enhance its look. Inside, it was stylish and practical, though the quality varied, with a mix of impressive materials and glossy hard plastics. A rattle from the license plate on the tailgate was a minor annoyance.

In contrast, the 2022 Lincoln Navigator underwent subtle styling changes, including new headlights, taillights, and a restyled front end. The new Audi-esque grille, however, was less elegant than before. Despite this, the Navigator's updates were successful overall. Inside, it dazzled with quality materials and a mid-century modern design, featuring Lincoln’s Constellation instrumentation and infotainment display theme. The new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen was a significant upgrade, and the Navigator continued to offer standard and long-wheelbase styles with various trim levels. The Black Label trim, priced at $106,530, included luxurious features like heated, ventilated, and massaging second-row captain’s chairs.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gas engine with front and rear electric motors and a lithium-ion battery pack, producing 219 horsepower. The front electric motor generated 149 pound-feet of torque, while the rear motor produced 89 lb-ft. The RAV4 Hybrid offered several driving modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, Trail, and EV. It weighed between 3,690 and 3,780 pounds, and the EPA estimated 40 mpg in combined driving, with our testing averaging 39.7 mpg. The continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) operated smoothly, and the regenerative braking system was effective. The MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension, along with Active Cornering Assist, provided a comfortable ride, though the P225/60R18 Michelin Primacy all-season tires lacked grip.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator retained its twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. It offered rear-wheel drive (RWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD) and had a towing capacity between 8,100 and 8,700 pounds. The adaptive-damping suspension with Road Preview and the new electronic brake booster improved ride quality and braking response. The Navigator handled well on various terrains, including snow and mud, thanks to its 9.7 inches of ground clearance and appropriate driving modes. The EPA estimated 18 mpg in combined driving, and our testing averaged 18.6 mpg.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid provided comfort with an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, a heated steering wheel, and heated and ventilated front seats. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed decent legroom, excellent foot space, and heated cushions. The dashboard layout was user-friendly, with large climate control knobs and an easy-to-use infotainment system. Storage was ample, with useful shelves and a roomy 37.5 cubic-foot cargo area, expandable to 69.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator offered exceptional comfort with 30-way power-adjustable front seats that were heated, ventilated, and massaging. The second-row captain’s chairs also featured heating, ventilation, and massaging functions. The third-row seat was spacious and supportive. Storage and cargo space were generous, with 19.3 cubic feet behind the third row, 57.5 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 103.3 cubic feet with the second row collapsed. The long-wheelbase Navigator L provided even more cargo space.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid featured infotainment systems with either a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The top-tier system included an 11-speaker JBL audio system, dynamic navigation, and voice recognition. The 8-inch display was user-friendly, with shortcut buttons and stereo knobs. Camera-based technology included a 360-degree surround-view system and a rearview camera mirror.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced a new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen, supporting Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The system was user-friendly, with physical controls for volume and climate functions. The voice recognition system was improved but not perfect. The upgraded Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system included Amazon Fire TV, providing access to streaming services. The 28-speaker Revel 3D audio system delivered exceptional sound quality.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, and lane-centering assist. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic warning were available on higher trims. The RAV4 Hybrid earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and top marks from the IIHS, except for its headlights.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced new driver assistance systems, including Intersection Assist, Road Edge Detection, Active Park Assist 2.0, and ActiveGlide. The surround-view camera system became standard. ActiveGlide, Lincoln’s semi-autonomous driving technology, performed well on approved highways but required driver attention. The Navigator’s safety features aimed to enhance driving convenience and safety.