2024 Toyota 4Runner vs 2023 Lincoln Aviator

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator presented a sophisticated and modern aesthetic, particularly in its Black Label Grand Touring trim. It featured a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, available in both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive. The Grand Touring models added a hybrid system with a 75-kilowatt electric motor and a 13.6-kilowatt-hour battery, standardizing all-wheel drive. Prices ranged from $53,340 to $89,280, with the top-tier model reaching $91,225. The Aviator's design was generally appealing, though the wheel designs on the Black Label Grand Touring were considered too plain. The vehicle's lighting and door features aimed to convey a sense of effortless luxury, though some interior elements, like the chrome detailing and key fob, felt less premium.

Inside, the Aviator's cabin was luxurious, albeit busy, with a mix of patterned metal trim, gloss black surfaces, and chrome accents. The Black Label Flight theme added rich caramel-hued leather seats, contrasting with the otherwise black interior. While materials were mostly high-end, some details, like the stitching and key fob, detracted from the overall luxury feel. The Aviator's interior was designed for comfort, with features like a panoramic glass sunroof and a simulated suede headliner, though some elements, like the electronic door latches, required careful handling.

In contrast, the 2024 Toyota 4Runner maintained a rugged, classic design that had not significantly changed since its 2010 redesign. Its boxy shape and flared fenders gave it a stable, off-road-ready appearance, further enhanced by the TRD Pro's skid plates and all-terrain tires. The 4Runner's interior, however, showed its age with old-school styling and outdated technology. The analog instrument panel and small eight-inch infotainment touchscreen felt dated, and the interior featured a lot of hard plastic, though commonly touched surfaces were cushioned. Despite its age, the 4Runner's design remained functional, with excellent outward visibility and practical features like sturdy handles for off-road adventures.

The 4Runner's interior offered ample space for front passengers, though the steering wheel's limited telescoping range could be an issue for taller drivers. The second row provided good legroom, but headroom was limited due to the elevated rear bench. The 4Runner's cargo space was generous, with up to 89.7 cubic feet available when the rear seats were stowed. However, the process of folding the seats was manual and cumbersome. The 4Runner also featured a sliding glass rear window and a hitch receiver, making it practical for outdoor activities.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring was a plug-in hybrid that combined a twin-turbo V6 engine with an electric motor, producing an impressive 494 horsepower and 630 lb-ft of torque. Despite its added weight, the Aviator offered 21 miles of electric range and averaged 23 mpg in hybrid mode. Various driving modes allowed for a balance between efficiency and performance, with the SUV achieving a fuel economy equivalent to 163.4 mpg during electric-heavy driving. The Aviator's handling was smooth and predictable, thanks to its adaptive suspension, though it lacked the excitement of a sportier SUV.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner, on the other hand, was powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. Its five-speed automatic transmission was less responsive compared to competitors, affecting acceleration and fuel economy. The TRD Pro model came with standard four-wheel drive and a two-speed transfer case, making it capable off-road. However, on-road performance was less impressive, with slow acceleration and noticeable body roll. The 4Runner's soft suspension was great for off-roading but resulted in a bouncy ride on pavement.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator prioritized comfort with features like a four-zone climate control system, heated and ventilated seats, and massaging front seats. The second-row captain's chairs were spacious and supportive, but the third row was cramped and best suited for children. Cargo space was limited with the third row in use, offering just 18.3 cubic feet, but expanded to 77.7 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner's interior was functional but dated, with easy-to-use controls and excellent visibility. Front passengers enjoyed ample space, though taller drivers might find the steering wheel's range lacking. The second row offered good legroom, but headroom was limited. The 4Runner's cargo space was generous, with up to 89.7 cubic feet available, though folding the seats was a manual process. Practical features like a sliding rear window and hitch receiver added to its utility.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator was equipped with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a navigation system. However, it ran on the outdated Sync 3 software, which struggled with voice recognition. The Aviator also included a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D audio system, wireless charging, and a digital key system. The head-up display was visible even with polarized sunglasses, and parking sensors and a surround-view camera aided in parking.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner's infotainment system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the small eight-inch touchscreen was challenging to use while driving. The TRD Pro model featured a 15-speaker JBL audio system, though road noise often obscured the sound quality. Additional terrain controls were located in the headliner console, requiring familiarity with the owner's manual to fully utilize.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator came with a suite of driver aids, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. However, the system's performance varied, with some features being less reliable in heavy traffic. The Aviator received a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner received mixed safety ratings, with four out of five stars from the NHTSA and "Good" ratings from the IIHS for some tests. It included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and a blind-spot monitor. However, the system was often oversensitive, with frequent alerts for lane departure and forward collision.