2022 Lincoln Navigator vs 2021 Toyota RAV4

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 featured a rugged-looking exterior that mimicked the traditional SUV style, with boxy fender flares, chiseled taillights, and a scowling front end. This aggressive design stood out against the competition and added to the perception that the RAV4 was more than just an ordinary vehicle. However, beneath the rugged exterior, the RAV4 was based on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, which it shared with other Toyota models like the Camry and Sienna. This meant that while the styling suggested a 4Runner, the mechanical components were more akin to a Camry.

In contrast, the 2022 Lincoln Navigator received subtle styling updates, including new headlights, taillights, and a redesigned front end with an Audi-esque grille. Despite this, the Navigator maintained its elegance and presence, with the rest of the updates rendering the new grille a minor footnote. Inside, the Navigator 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 display and a host of other updates made the Navigator a luxurious and technologically advanced SUV.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 was powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered standard front-wheel drive (FWD) and optional all-wheel drive (AWD). While the engine achieved impressive thermal efficiency and loved to rev, the transmission often hesitated to shift, and the steering lacked feel. The RAV4 also offered Adventure and TRD Off-Road models with added off-road capabilities, including a torque-vectoring rear axle and 8.6 inches of ground clearance. However, the RAV4’s on-road driving dynamics were less impressive, making the RAV4 Hybrid or RAV4 Prime more appealing options for those seeking better refinement and power.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator, on the other hand, was equipped with a 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 ranging from 8,100 to 8,700 pounds. The Navigator’s adaptive-damping suspension with Road Preview and new electronic brake booster provided a smooth and controlled ride, even on imperfect pavement. The Navigator’s 4WD system, 9.7 inches of ground clearance, and appropriate driving modes made it capable of handling snow and mud with ease. The Navigator also achieved a combined fuel economy of 18.6 mpg during testing.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 offered a tall, upright roof providing competitive headroom in both rows and good outward visibility. However, legroom was slightly behind some competitors, and the rear seats had flat, hard cushions. Cargo space was above average at 37.6 cubic feet with the rear seats in place, but still behind the Honda CR-V. The RAV4’s interior featured oversized knobs and steering-wheel controls that were easy to use, but the center-console storage was somewhat limited.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator continued to impress with its exceptionally comfortable 30-way power-adjustable front seats, which were heated, ventilated, and massaging. The second-row captain’s chairs also offered heating, ventilation, and massaging functions, making long trips comfortable. The third-row seats provided roomy accommodations, and the Navigator’s independent rear suspension design ensured a supportive seat. Storage and cargo space were generous, with the Navigator L offering even more room. The Navigator’s cargo capacity ranged from 19.3 cubic feet behind the third row to 103.3 cubic feet with the second-row seats collapsed.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 came standard with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Most trim levels featured a 7-inch touchscreen, while higher trims offered an 8-inch or 9-inch screen. The infotainment system was user-friendly but not particularly flashy, and the gasoline RAV4 did not offer a head-up display (HUD).

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator featured a new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen display, offering a modern and user-friendly interface. The system supported Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and included a voice recognition system that performed well. The upgraded Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV provided access to streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime. The Navigator also boasted a new 28-speaker Revel 3D high-end audio system, delivering an exceptional audio experience.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 received a “Top Safety Pick” rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which included features like forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and more. Higher trim levels added blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced several 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, allowed for hands-free driving on approved highways. While the system performed well, it required the driver to remain attentive at all times.