2021 Lincoln Navigator vs 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid initially presented a bold and distinctive design, characterized by its blunt and bulbous nose, which gave it an aggressive appearance. Over time, however, this design became more familiar and less striking. The SUV's styling was further accentuated by black windshield pillars that created a floating roof effect, and swollen haunches that attempted to balance the overall look. Despite the presence of 20-inch alloy wheels, the exaggerated quarter panels seemed to overwhelm the design. Inside, the Highlander Hybrid offered a two-tone interior with soft leather for the Limited and Platinum trims, though the dashboard's asymmetrical design and glossy black detailing could suffer from reflections. The controls were well-organized, but the mix of illumination colours at night made the gauges appear busy.

In contrast, the 2021 Lincoln Navigator exuded elegance and understatement, a challenging feat for a large SUV. Its design featured simple rectilinear shapes, with a body-colour grille, windows, and headlights, complemented by chrome accents. The Pristine White model with a white-painted grille and black wheels was particularly striking. The Navigator's interior impressed with its seven colour palettes and attention to detail, such as the layered wood trim and floating centre console. The Perfect Position seats offered 30 different adjustments, providing a luxurious experience. While the Navigator's materials and panel gaps were of high quality, it lacked the superior control and handling of some competitors, like the Cadillac Escalade.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid transitioned from a V6 engine to a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, resulting in improved fuel efficiency. It achieved a combined rating of 6.7 L/100 km, with a total output of 243 horsepower. The hybrid system used an "E-CVT" to mimic an automatic transmission. While the Highlander Hybrid excelled in fuel efficiency, it sacrificed driving enjoyment. The power was adequate but not exhilarating, and the engine sounded strained during acceleration. The steering was lifeless, and the ride exhibited unwanted body movement. However, the regenerative brakes were an improvement over the previous generation, and the SUV performed well on smooth roads.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator boasted a powerful twin-turbo V6 engine, producing 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD, delivered impressive performance. The Navigator's towing capacity was substantial at 3,765 kilograms. While fuel efficiency was not its strong suit, the Navigator's adaptive dampers provided a comfortable ride. The steering and brakes lacked the precision of some competitors, but the Navigator's low-end thrust and quiet cabin made it a refined highway cruiser. Paddle shifters added a touch of sportiness to the driving experience.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum offered comfortable accommodations for the driver and front passenger, with power-adjustable seats and leather upholstery. The second-row bench seat increased seating capacity to eight, but the Highlander felt narrow, making it uncomfortable for three adults in the second row. The third-row seat was low and lacked support, with limited legroom. Cargo space was generous, with 453 litres behind the third row and a maximum capacity of 2,387 litres. However, the storage design had some limitations, such as the placement of the wireless smartphone charger.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator provided ample space for passengers and cargo, with a boxy design that maximized interior room. It could accommodate up to eight passengers, though the third-row middle seat was best suited for children. The Navigator's cargo space was impressive, with 546 litres behind the third row and a total capacity of 2,925 litres. The rear glass opened separately from the tailgate, adding convenience. The front seats were exceptionally comfortable, with numerous adjustments and massage programs. Visibility was excellent, but parking could be challenging due to the vehicle's size.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came equipped with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The Platinum trim included a JBL premium audio system and a head-up display. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with large knobs and shortcut buttons for easy access. However, the JBL sound system's performance varied depending on the music genre. The Highlander also featured Driver Easy Speak technology and a video rearview mirror for improved visibility.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator featured a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which felt outdated compared to newer competitors. While it offered Bluetooth and SiriusXM, it lacked wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 20-speaker Revel Ultima audio system was good but not exceptional. The software was intuitive, with fast voice recognition, but it lacked onboard apps and wireless updates. The Navigator included wireless device charging and a rear entertainment system with Roku media streaming. Drive mode animations added a touch of sophistication to the instrument panel.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which included features like automatic high beams, dynamic radar cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. The system also offered intersection support and emergency steering assistance. The Highlander received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. However, the adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance had some limitations in certain driving conditions.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with four stars for rollover resistance. It featured standard safety equipment like automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Inflatable rear seat belts were optional, providing additional safety for rear passengers. However, the Navigator's adaptive cruise control did not offer the same level of self-steering and lane tracking as some competitors.