2022 Lincoln Navigator vs 2022 Toyota Venza

The 2022 Toyota Venza re-emerged with a modern design, riding on the proven Toyota New Global Architecture K platform. This midsize crossover SUV measured 186.6 inches in length, 73.0 inches in width, and 65.9 inches in height, with a ground clearance of 7.8 inches. Its exterior design was sleek and Lexus-like, featuring a distinctive scalloped body side and a prominent nose, making it more suited for urban environments than rugged terrains. Inside, the Venza offered an elegant and high-quality interior, with a layered dashboard and a well-placed touchscreen display. The front seats were supportive, and the rear seats comfortably accommodated three adults.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator underwent subtle styling changes, including new headlights, taillights, and a restyled front end. Despite a grille design that some found less elegant, the Navigator's updates were largely successful. Inside, it continued to impress with quality materials and a mid-century modern design, featuring the new Constellation instrumentation and infotainment display theme. The Navigator's Sync 4 infotainment system, with a 13.2-inch touchscreen, offered improved functionality. The SUV was available in standard and long-wheelbase styles, with a starting MSRP of $78,405. The Black Label trim, tested in a Central Park theme, showcased luxurious features like heated, ventilated, and massaging captain’s chairs.

The 2022 Toyota Venza featured a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline engine paired with three electric motors, producing a combined 219 horsepower. It offered a balance of electric and gas drive for optimal efficiency, with options for electric-only operation and various drive modes. The Venza's performance was sprightly, with agile handling reminiscent of the Camry, though its taller body discouraged aggressive cornering. It was designed as a midsize family hauler, delivering a comfortable ride and performance.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. It offered a towing capacity between 8,100 and 8,700 pounds, depending on configuration. The Navigator's adaptive-damping suspension, with Road Preview, enhanced ride quality by preparing for road imperfections. The SUV's electronic brake booster improved brake feel and response. During testing, the Navigator handled various driving conditions, including snow and mud, with ease, thanks to its four-wheel drive and 9.7 inches of ground clearance. It achieved an average fuel economy of 18.6 mpg during a test drive.

The 2022 Toyota Venza seated five in two rows, with ample headroom and legroom. The second row offered 45.2 inches of hip room, accommodating three adults comfortably. The cabin felt spacious, especially with the available Star Gaze panoramic glass roof. Convenience features included an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, electric parking brake, and multiple storage options. The Venza's lithium-ion battery pack was located beneath the second-row seats, minimally impacting cargo capacity. It offered 28.8 cubic feet of luggage space, expandable to 55.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The cabin was designed to be a quiet oasis, with sound-blocking materials enhancing serenity.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator's front seats were heated, ventilated, and massaging, offering exceptional comfort. The second-row captain’s chairs, also heated and ventilated, provided a luxurious experience, complemented by the updated Lincoln Play entertainment system. The third-row seat remained spacious and supportive. The Navigator offered generous storage and cargo space, with 19.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expandable to 103.3 cubic feet with the second-row seats folded. The long-wheelbase Navigator L provided even more cargo capacity.

The 2022 Toyota Venza featured a hybrid powertrain that required no charging infrastructure, offering over 500 miles of range on a full tank. Its Predicted Efficient Drive program optimized battery charging based on driving habits. The infotainment system included an eight-inch touchscreen with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The Limited trim added a nine-speaker JBL audio system and a 12.3-inch touchscreen. Toyota Connected Services offered various trials, and an Advanced Technology Package included a head-up display and rain-sensing wipers.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced a new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen, offering improved functionality and user-friendly controls. The system supported Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, with voice recognition and over-the-air update capabilities. The Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system, with Amazon Fire TV, provided access to popular streaming services. The test vehicle featured a 28-speaker Revel 3D audio system, delivering an exceptional audio experience.

The 2022 Toyota Venza came equipped with the Toyota Star Safety System, including stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. It featured eight airbags and the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite, offering forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure alert. A blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert were standard, with additional parking assist features on higher trims. The Venza received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced new driver assistance systems, including Intersection Assist, Road Edge Detection, Active Park Assist 2.0, and ActiveGlide. A surround-view camera system was standard. ActiveGlide, a semi-autonomous driving technology, allowed hands-free driving on approved highways. While the system performed well, it required driver attention and intervention when necessary. These features represented steps toward fully autonomous driving, emphasizing the importance of responsible driving.