2023 Lincoln Navigator vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, a model that evolved from its original 1996 launch, continued to capture the essence of a compact SUV while growing in size and sophistication over five generations. Initially embraced by young buyers for its unique appeal, the RAV4 set the stage for a new category of car-based SUVs, often referred to as "cute-utes." By 2022, the RAV4 had matured into a leading crossover SUV, frequently topping sales charts in the United States. Its design, while blending with the current crossover aesthetic, featured distinctive angular wheel arches and expressive headlights that gave it a playful yet aggressive look. Inside, the RAV4 boasted a layered dashboard with contrasting textures and a user-friendly touchscreen interface, complemented by unique design elements like a circuit-board-inspired pattern that tied the cabin together.

In contrast, the 2023 Lincoln Navigator maintained its status as a full-size luxury SUV, offering a spacious and comfortable interior with high-end materials. Despite lacking significant updates since its 2018 redesign, the Navigator continued to impress with its luxurious features and ample space. The test vehicle, a triple-black Navigator Reserve model, showcased a Monochromatic Package with black 22-inch wheels and body-color trim. Inside, the cabin was adorned with real wood trim and chrome accents, though some switchgear failed to convey the expected luxury. The Navigator's interior was further enhanced by ambient lighting, adding character to the otherwise all-black cabin. Despite its upscale appearance, the Navigator's ride quality was criticized for being less refined than expected, with the adaptive damping suspension not living up to its promise.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered a choice of three powertrains, starting with a gasoline-only model featuring a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, provided smooth and responsive power delivery, especially on the highway. The RAV4's fuel economy was impressive, with FWD models achieving up to 35 mpg on the highway. The RAV4 Hybrid, with a combined output of 217 horsepower, boasted an EPA rating of 40 mpg combined, while the RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid delivered 302 horsepower and an electric-only range of 42 miles. The RAV4's handling was car-like, with a four-wheel independent suspension and dynamic torque vectoring for improved cornering.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator, powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivered 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and 4WD, the Navigator offered a range of driving modes, including Excite for a more spirited drive. However, the Navigator's ride quality was criticized for being truck-like over smaller bumps and lacking the refinement expected from an adaptive damping suspension. The SUV's nearly three-ton curb weight also challenged the brakes during spirited driving. Despite its size, the Navigator felt smaller on winding roads, thanks to excellent outward visibility and impressive grip from its large wheels and tires.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, while classified as a small SUV, offered a surprising amount of cargo space, with up to 69.8 cubic feet available with the second row folded flat. It also had a healthy payload capacity and towing capabilities, with Adventure and TRD Off-Road models rated to tow up to 3,500 pounds. Inside, the RAV4 provided a comfortable space for four adults, with ample legroom and storage options throughout the cabin. The front row featured individual bucket seats with plenty of room, while the second-row bench seat could accommodate a fifth passenger in a pinch.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator excelled in functionality, offering roomy seats across all three rows and an available extended body style for even more cargo space. The test vehicle featured Lincoln's 30-way Perfect Position power-adjustable front seats, providing heating, ventilation, and massage functions for ultimate comfort. The second-row captain's chairs offered a pass-through to the third row, where even taller adults could sit comfortably. Storage space was generous, with various trays and compartments throughout the cabin. The Navigator L model provided significantly more cargo space, making it ideal for carrying both passengers and luggage.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came equipped with a range of technology features, starting with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system and compatibility with Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and Apple CarPlay. Higher trims offered a 9-inch touchscreen and an 11-speaker JBL audio system. The RAV4 Prime showcased advanced technology, including multiple USB ports, a wireless charging pad, and a bird's-eye view camera system. Safety features included Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, with adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and more.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator featured a 12-inch digital instrumentation display and a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system with the Sync 4 system. It offered wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a navigation system, and Alexa Built-in. The Navigator's digital assistant excelled in voice recognition, while the 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D Audio System provided exceptional sound quality. The Lincoln Way app allowed owners to use their smartphone as a digital key, and the Navigator Play system offered rear-seat entertainment, though it was largely ignored by passengers in favor of personal devices.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with Toyota's Star Safety System, which included features like enhanced vehicle stability control, traction control, and anti-lock braking. It also came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering a suite of driver-assist systems such as a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection and adaptive cruise control. The RAV4 received high safety ratings, including an IIHS Top Safety Pick and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator was fortified with advanced driving assistance systems, including Lincoln Co-Pilot360 2.0 and BlueCruise, a hands-free driving assist system. However, BlueCruise struggled with certain driving conditions, requiring driver intervention. The Navigator received a 5-star side-impact protection rating and a 4-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA, though a full crashworthiness assessment was not available.