2023 Lincoln Navigator vs 2023 Toyota 4Runner

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner 40th Anniversary Special Edition, or 40 ASE, was based on the SR5 Premium trim level and added a retro flair with its unique design elements. It featured retro body stripes, a heritage grille, bronze 17-inch wheels, and special badges, all contributing to its nostalgic appeal. The 40 ASE was available in black, white, or red paint with a black artificial leather interior. Despite its vintage-inspired aesthetics, the 4Runner maintained a rugged, truck-based SUV look, which resonated with those who appreciated its enduring appeal. Inside, the 4Runner's cabin was practical, with easy-to-use controls and a solid build, though it was not without its share of plastic materials.

In contrast, the 2023 Lincoln Navigator exuded luxury and sophistication, even as it awaited a future electric transformation. The Navigator Reserve model, tested in a triple-black color scheme, showcased a Monochromatic Package with black 22-inch wheels and body-color trim. The interior was upscale, featuring real wood trim and chrome accents, with ambient lighting adding character at night. However, some chrome plastic switchgear detracted from the overall luxury feel. The Navigator's cabin was spacious and comfortable, with high-quality materials, though the ride quality was inconsistent, especially with the Reserve trim's larger wheels and tires.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner was equipped with a 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. It offered a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds and came with either rear-wheel drive or optional four-wheel drive. The 4Runner's fuel economy was rated at 17 mpg combined, with our test vehicle averaging 16.9 mpg. Off-road capabilities were a highlight, with features like Hill-Start Assist Control, Downhill Assist Control, and Active Traction Control. Various trims offered additional off-roading technologies, enhancing its performance in challenging terrains. However, on-road performance was less impressive, with leisurely acceleration, heavy steering, and a brake pedal that lacked finesse.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator featured a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque, mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission and a 4WD drivetrain. It had an EPA fuel economy rating of 18 mpg combined, but our test vehicle averaged 15.6 mpg. The Navigator offered five drive modes, including Conserve, Normal, Excite, Slippery, and Deep Conditions, with an adaptive damping suspension standard. While Excite mode improved ride quality and performance, it negatively impacted fuel efficiency. The Navigator's size and weight posed challenges in city driving and on mountain roads, with slow steering and brake fade during extended descents.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner offered a unique feature with its power-down rear window, providing excellent ventilation when combined with the sunroof and side windows. The interior was practical, with comfortable seats and numerous storage locations, though some lacked rubber liners. The second-row seating was spacious, with good legroom and USB charging ports. A third-row seat was available but compromised cargo space and comfort. Without the third row, the 4Runner provided 46.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and up to 89.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator excelled in interior space and comfort, with power-deploying running boards for easy access. The front seats offered 30-way adjustability, heating, ventilation, and massage functions, though finding the perfect setting could be challenging. The second-row captain's chairs were roomy, and the third-row seat accommodated taller adults comfortably. Storage was generous throughout the cabin, with various trays and covered compartments. The Navigator L model offered even more cargo space, with up to 120.2 cubic feet available behind the front seats.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner featured traditional analog gauges and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The system was user-friendly, with large knobs and buttons suitable for gloved use. Voice recognition performed well, though it had limitations with certain commands. Optional upgrades included a navigation system and a JBL premium sound system, both of which required adjustments for optimal sound quality.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator boasted a 12-inch digital instrumentation display, a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and an available widescreen head-up display. The Sync 4 system included wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM 360L, and Alexa Built-in. The digital assistant excelled in voice recognition, and the 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D Audio System provided exceptional sound quality. However, the wireless smartphone charger caused overheating issues. Lincoln Play offered rear-seat entertainment, though it was underutilized by passengers.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner came with Toyota Safety Sense, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and more. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard across all trims. However, the 4Runner's crash-test ratings were less favorable, with a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a three-star rating for front passenger protection and rollover resistance.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator was equipped with Lincoln Co-Pilot360 2.0 and Co-Pilot360 2.0 Drive packages, featuring advanced driving assistance systems like Evasive Steering Assist, Intersection Assist, and BlueCruise. BlueCruise allowed hands-free driving on designated highways but required frequent driver intervention. The Navigator received a 5-star side-impact protection rating and a 4-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA.