2021 Lincoln Navigator vs 2022 Toyota Sequoia

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator was a departure from its predecessors, which closely resembled the Ford Expedition. While it shared some structural elements with the Expedition, the Navigator distinguished itself with unique design features, including a distinct turn signal stalk. Its elegant and understated styling was impressive for a vehicle of its size, featuring rectilinear shapes and subtle chrome accents. The Pristine White model, with its monochromatic package and illuminated Lincoln logo, was particularly striking. Inside, the Navigator offered a modern and muted interior with seven colour palettes, including the Slate Gray of the test model. The wood trim, push-button gear selector, and floating centre console added to its sophisticated appeal. The Perfect Position seats, with 30 adjustment options, provided exceptional comfort, making the Navigator's interior one of the most luxurious in its class.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Sequoia maintained a more traditional design, having been in its second generation for 14 years. Its exterior design was characterized by modestly sized grilles, elegant wheel arches, and straight lines, giving it a timeless appearance. The Sequoia's dimensions were substantial, with a height of 1,956 mm, a width of 2,030 mm, and a length of 5,210 mm, riding on a 3,099 mm wheelbase. Despite its age, the Sequoia's interior was well-constructed, with high-quality materials and tight seams. However, its design felt dated compared to more modern SUVs. The Nightshade Special Edition model, based on the Limited trim, showcased Toyota's efforts to keep the Sequoia relevant. While it lacked some of the luxury features of its competitors, the Sequoia's interior was durable and family-friendly, with ample space for passengers and cargo.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a remarkable twin-turbo V6 engine, borrowed from the Ford Raptor. With a displacement of 3.5 litres, this engine produced an impressive 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive in Canada, the Navigator delivered a surprisingly agile performance for its size. Its towing capacity was substantial at 3,765 kilograms, making it a capable choice for hauling. However, its fuel efficiency was less impressive, with a combined rating of 13.8 litres per 100 kilometres. While the Navigator's adaptive dampers were standard, its suspension felt less refined compared to competitors like the Cadillac Escalade. Despite some shortcomings in handling, the Navigator excelled in highway refinement and power, with paddle shifters adding a touch of sportiness.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia featured a 5.7-litre i-Force V8 engine, delivering 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a lockable Torsen limited-slip centre differential in 4WD models. Known for its durability and reliability, this powertrain was well-suited to the Sequoia's truck-based design. The Sequoia boasted a payload capacity of up to 608 kilograms and a towing capacity of 3,221 kilograms. However, its fuel consumption was higher, with a combined rating of 16.4 litres per 100 kilometres. Despite its weight, the Sequoia offered a smooth and stable ride on the highway, with excellent off-road capabilities thanks to its robust construction and independent suspension. The TRD Pro model further enhanced its off-road prowess with Fox shocks. While not as nimble as some competitors, the Sequoia was a reliable and capable performer.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator offered a spacious interior, akin to a small bedroom, with ample room for six adults. While technically a seven-passenger SUV, the third row's middle seat was best suited for children. The Navigator's boxy shape contributed to its generous cargo space, with 546 litres behind the third row, 1,627 litres behind the second, and a total of 2,925 litres. The long-wheelbase Navigator L provided even more storage capacity. The rear glass opened separately from the tailgate, adding convenience. The Navigator Reserve featured heated second-row seats and a three-zone climate system, though it lacked some advanced features found in German competitors. The front seats were exceptionally comfortable, with numerous adjustments and massage programs. Visibility was excellent, but parking could be challenging due to its size.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia prioritized passenger comfort, offering spacious seating across all three rows. With three-zone climate control and a standard power moonroof, the Sequoia catered to passenger needs. Heated front seats were standard, with heated rear seats available on the Platinum grade. The Sequoia's interior provided ample storage, including a large centre console and door pockets. The cargo compartment featured a 12-volt outlet, accommodating 535 litres of luggage behind the third row. Power-folding the third row expanded cargo space to 1,886 litres, and folding both rows flat provided a generous 3,401 litres. While lacking some luxury features, the Sequoia's interior was practical and family-friendly.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator's technology felt somewhat dated, with a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system that paled in comparison to newer offerings. While it included Bluetooth and SiriusXM, it lacked wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The 20-speaker Revel Ultima audio system was good but not exceptional. The software was intuitive, sharing its interface with Ford vehicles, but it was slightly slow in response. Voice recognition was fast and accurate, but the lack of onboard apps and wireless updates was a drawback. However, the Navigator offered wireless device charging and smartphone ignition key functionality. The rear entertainment system included Roku media streaming and various connectivity options.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia's infotainment system was outdated, with a 7-inch touchscreen that felt clunky compared to competitors. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility were standard, the 4.2-inch TFT driver information screen was outclassed by digital dashboards. SiriusXM satellite radio was standard, with navigation and a JBL premium audio system available on higher trims. The Sequoia lacked modern powertrain technology, relying on a naturally aspirated V8 engine. However, Toyota updated the Sequoia's exterior lighting to LED and included standard safety features like a rear backup camera and parking sonar.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator received a five-star overall rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, with four stars for rollover resistance. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety had not rated the Navigator. While knee airbags were not offered, inflatable rear seat belts were optional. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and auto high beams. Adaptive cruise control was optional but lacked advanced self-steering capabilities.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia had not been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS. However, it featured the Toyota Safety Sense P suite, including pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert was standard. The Sequoia also included Toyota's STAR safety system, with stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, and more. A full complement of airbags, crumple zones, and other safety features were standard across all models.