2024 Toyota RAV4 vs 2025 Lincoln Aviator

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 presented a rugged exterior, with its aggressive angularity and dual exhaust outlets suggesting a performance that wasn't quite there. The TRD Off-Road model, priced at $41,925 with options, featured Army Green paint and a digital rearview mirror, among other amenities. Despite its tough appearance, the RAV4's interior was all about utility, with easy-clean surfaces and practical storage solutions. The SUV's cabin was designed for functionality, with contrast-color interior choices available in higher trims for a more upscale feel.

In contrast, the 2025 Lincoln Aviator, built on a rear-wheel-drive platform shared with the Ford Explorer, boasted classic design proportions with a blunt nose and tapered roofline. The Aviator's interior exuded luxury, with plush materials and a traditional approach to technology. The Reserve trim, priced at $83,550 with options, included features like 30-way-adjustable front seats and a 28-speaker Revel Ultima audio system. While the Aviator's design was appealing, the optional Jet Appearance Package made it appear less distinctive than previous models.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. The TRD Off-Road model came with standard all-wheel drive, off-road suspension tuning, and all-terrain tires. Despite its off-road enhancements, the RAV4's ground clearance and approach angles were similar to other models in the lineup. The SUV's eight-speed automatic transmission and dependable engine contributed to a fuel economy rating of 28 mpg combined, though our test averaged 26.6 mpg.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator featured a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine delivering 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. The 10-speed automatic transmission provided smooth power delivery, and the adaptive air suspension offered a comfortable ride. The Aviator's driving modes included Excite and Conserve, but the SUV was more about comfort than performance. The EPA rated its fuel economy at 20 mpg combined, but our test yielded 17.7 mpg. The Aviator's large wheels and tires contributed to road noise, but the interior remained quiet overall.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4's interior focused on practicality, with ample storage options and oversized control knobs. The TRD Off-Road model featured SofTex upholstery and an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat. The rear seat offered good legroom and comfort for four adults, with a cargo capacity of 37.6 cubic feet, expanding to 69.8 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator's interior was luxurious, with Perfect Position front seats offering 30 adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The second-row captain's chairs were comfortable, though the third-row seats were less accommodating for adults. The Aviator provided 19.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 78.6 cubic feet with the seats folded. Storage solutions were plentiful, with a smartphone charging pad and deep door pockets.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 featured the Toyota Audio Multimedia system with an 8-inch or optional 10.5-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and various connected services. The system was sophisticated but had some usability issues, such as the lack of a multi-panel Home screen and difficulty exiting Apple CarPlay. The digital voice assistant performed well, though it had some limitations.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator boasted a 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster and a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system powered by Lincoln Digital Experience. While the system supported Google Built-in and Alexa Built-in, our test vehicle had issues with voice recognition. However, wireless Apple CarPlay and Siri worked seamlessly. The Aviator's 28-speaker Revel Ultima sound system was impressive, and the head-up display provided valuable information.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, offering a range of advanced driver-assistance systems. However, the base LE trim lacked blind-spot monitoring, and the SUV lost its Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS due to lower ratings in recent crash tests.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator included Lincoln Co-Pilot360 Drive 2.0, featuring advanced safety systems like active blind-spot monitoring and BlueCruise hands-free driving assistance. The Aviator earned five-star ratings from the NHTSA and Good ratings from the IIHS, indicating strong safety performance.