2022 Toyota Venza vs 2023 Lincoln Aviator

The 2022 Toyota Venza had a history of trying to make a mark in the U.S. market, with a previous model running from 2009 to 2015. It made a comeback in 2021, built on the robust Toyota New Global Architecture K (TGNA-K) platform, shared with several other successful Toyota and Lexus models. Measuring 186.6 inches in length, 73.0 inches in width, and 65.9 inches in height, the Venza was on the smaller side of the midsize crossover SUV segment. Its design was sleek and modern, with a standout scalloped body side and a prominent nose, making it more suited for urban environments than rugged terrains. Inside, the Venza offered a Lexus-like interior with high-quality materials, a layered dash, and well-placed touchscreen displays, providing a comfortable and elegant cabin experience.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator, on the other hand, was a luxurious three-row midsize SUV with a striking presence. It featured a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine as standard, with options for a plug-in hybrid powertrain. The Aviator's design was sophisticated, with the Lincoln Embrace lighting sequence and electric, light-touch door handles adding to its premium feel. Inside, the Aviator was lavishly appointed with high-end materials, including soft leather and a simulated suede headliner. However, some elements, like the chrome detailing on the switchgear, felt less luxurious. The cabin was a mix of Art Deco and modern design, with a focus on comfort and technology, including massaging 30-way Perfect Position front seats and a four-zone automatic climate control system.

The 2022 Toyota Venza was powered by a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline engine paired with three electric motors, producing a combined 219 horsepower. It offered a balanced drive with options for electric-only operation for short distances and various drive modes like Normal, Eco, and Sport. The Venza's regenerative braking system helped recharge the lithium-ion battery, contributing to its efficiency. It provided a sprightly performance and agile handling, making it a suitable midsize family hauler with a comfortable ride.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring, a plug-in hybrid, boasted an impressive 494 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 630 pound-feet of torque at 2,250 rpm. It offered 21 miles of electric driving range and an average of 23 mpg combined in hybrid mode. The Aviator featured multiple driving modes, including Pure EV, Preserve EV, Conserve, Normal, and Excite, to optimize performance and efficiency. During an extended evaluation drive, the Aviator demonstrated its ability to maximize battery use, achieving an equivalent of 163.4 mpg during electric driving. However, the drivetrain could be unpredictable, with inconsistent acceleration and braking behavior. The Aviator's Dynamic Handling Package and adaptive-damping Active Glide suspension provided a smooth and controlled ride, though it lacked the fun-to-drive factor.

The 2022 Toyota Venza seated five in two rows, with ample headroom and legroom in both rows. The second row offered 45.2 inches of hip room, making it comfortable for three adults. The cabin felt spacious, especially with the available Star Gaze fixed panoramic glass roof. The Venza featured numerous convenience elements, including an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, electric parking brake, and multiple storage options. It offered 28.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expandable to 55.1 cubic feet with the seats folded flat. Toyota also focused on making the Venza's cabin a quiet oasis with extensive sound-blocking and absorbing materials.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator prioritized comfort with features like a four-zone automatic climate control system, heated and ventilated seats, and massaging 30-way Perfect Position front seats. The second-row captain’s chairs were spacious and supportive, but the third-row seat was cramped and difficult to access. With the third row in use, the Aviator provided 18.3 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 41.8 cubic feet with the seats folded flat, and a maximum of 77.7 cubic feet. The Aviator's cabin was luxurious, though some design choices, like the chrome detailing, felt less premium.

The 2022 Toyota Venza featured a hybrid powertrain that required no special attention, making it ideal for those without access to charging infrastructure. It included a Predicted Efficient Drive (PED) program to optimize battery charging based on driving habits. The LE and XLE models came with an eight-inch touchscreen, while the Limited added a 12.3-inch touchscreen and a nine-speaker JBL audio system. Toyota Connected Services, including Safety Connect, Service Connect, Remote Connect, and WiFi Connect, were standard. An Advanced Technology Package offered a head-up display and rain-sensing windshield wipers.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Black Label Grand Touring 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 had limitations in voice recognition. The Aviator featured a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D audio system, wireless charging, and Phone As A Key digital key system. The digital instrumentation and head-up display were user-friendly, though the voice recognition system struggled with complex commands. The Aviator also had front and rear parking sensors and a surround-view camera system.

The 2022 Toyota Venza came with the Toyota Star Safety System, including stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, and a rearview camera. It had eight airbags and the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 (TSS 2.0) suite of driver aids, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The Venza received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator was equipped with Co-Pilot360 1.5, Co-Pilot360 1.5 Plus, and Co-Pilot360 2.0 collections of driver aids, depending on the trim level. Our test vehicle included features like adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection, and forward-collision warning. The Aviator also had blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist. The standard Aviator received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.