2023 Lincoln Aviator vs 2022 Toyota 4Runner

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner maintained its rugged, adventure-ready persona, staying true to its roots as a truck-based SUV. Unlike many modern SUVs that have shifted to car-based platforms, the 4Runner retained its connection to the Toyota Tacoma pickup, offering a high ride height, boxy proportions, and a sharply angled front bumper designed for off-road obstacles. Inside, the 4Runner's design was functional but dated, with a dash layout reminiscent of the late 2000s. It offered a range of trims, from the basic SR5 to the off-road-focused TRD Pro, each with varying features like push-button start, a power-sliding rear window, and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system.

In contrast, the 2023 Lincoln Aviator presented a more luxurious and modern aesthetic. It featured a sleek design with a focus on comfort and technology. The Aviator's interior was lavish, with high-end materials and a plethora of features, including a four-zone automatic climate control system and massaging, 30-way adjustable front seats. However, the third-row seating was cramped, making it less suitable for adults. The Aviator's exterior was marked by its modern Lincoln face, though some wheel designs were less impressive. Overall, the Aviator aimed to provide a smooth and quiet ride, with a focus on luxury and technology.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a single 4.0-liter V6 engine, producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. While reliable, this engine felt dated and underwhelming in most driving situations, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. The 4Runner's ride was harsh and cumbersome on paved roads, with significant body roll, but it excelled off-road. The TRD Pro and TRD Off-Road models included features like Crawl Control and a locking differential, enhancing their off-road capabilities. The 4Runner could tow up to 5,000 pounds, which was more than most car-based crossovers.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring, a plug-in hybrid, offered a powerful drivetrain with 494 horsepower and 630 pound-feet of torque. It provided 21 miles of electric driving range and averaged 23 mpg in hybrid mode. The Aviator featured multiple driving modes, including Pure EV and Preserve EV, to optimize efficiency. Despite its impressive power, the drivetrain could be unpredictable, with inconsistent acceleration and braking behavior. The Aviator's handling was commendable, thanks to its adaptive-damping Active Glide suspension, but it wasn't particularly fun to drive. It prioritized a quiet, smooth ride over sporty handling.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner offered a maximum of 89.7 cubic feet of cargo space in the two-row version, with 47.2 cubic feet behind the second row. The optional third-row seat reduced maximum cargo space to 88.8 cubic feet. The 4Runner lacked a power rear liftgate but featured a power-operated rear window. While not the most spacious SUV, it provided adequate room for gear, though it could be more efficient in its cabin packaging.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator prioritized comfort with features like a four-zone automatic climate control system and massaging front seats. However, its third-row seating was cramped, with limited kneeroom and legroom. The Aviator offered 18.3 cubic feet of cargo space with the third row in use, expanding to 41.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 77.7 cubic feet. The Aviator's interior was luxurious, but the third row was best suited for occasional use.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. It included Bluetooth connectivity, satellite radio, and multiple USB ports. While not the most advanced system, it was straightforward and relied on tactile controls, which were useful for off-road driving.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator was loaded with technology, including a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Alexa integration. However, it ran on the older Sync 3 software, which struggled with voice recognition. The Aviator featured a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D audio system, wireless charging, and a Phone As A Key system. It also had digital instrumentation and a head-up display, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense, including forward automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. It also offered optional features like blind-spot monitoring and a surround-view camera system. The 4Runner earned four stars in frontal and side-impact testing from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator featured Co-Pilot360 driver aids, including adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping assist. The Aviator's safety tech performed well, though the steering wheel controls were unnecessarily complicated. The standard Aviator received a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.