2021 Lincoln Navigator vs 2021 Toyota RAV4

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 presented a rugged exterior that was a departure from its predecessors, with boxy fender flares and chiseled taillights that gave it a more aggressive look compared to other compact crossovers. Despite its bold styling, the RAV4 was built on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, which was shared with other Toyota models like the Camry and Sienna. This meant that while the RAV4 looked like a 4Runner, its mechanical underpinnings were more akin to a Camry. The RAV4 offered options like the Trail model with a retro Ice Edge roof and the TRD Off-Road package with matte black wheels and red interior accents, enhancing its adventurous appeal.

Inside, the RAV4 featured rugged styling touches such as large rubberized knobs and door handles, which distinguished its cabin from other Toyota models. While the material quality was decent on lower trims, it did not improve significantly with higher trims. The TRD Off-Road model came with SofTex upholstery, which was lighter than leather and suited the vehicle's outdoorsy character. However, real leather was not available, even on the top-tier Limited trim.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator, on the other hand, was a testament to elegance and understatement, despite its massive size. Sharing its basic structure with the Ford Expedition, the Navigator distinguished itself with unique styling elements like a body-colour grille, sweeping LED running lights, and a full-width taillight assembly. The Pristine White model with a white-painted grille and black wheels exuded class, while the illuminated Lincoln logo added a touch of sophistication. The Navigator's interior was equally impressive, with seven colour palettes and a focus on finer details like layered wood trim and a minimalist digital instrument panel. The Perfect Position seats offered 30 different adjustments, providing a level of comfort and customization rarely seen in vehicles of its size.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 was powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered standard front-wheel drive with optional all-wheel drive. The engine achieved 40% thermal efficiency, a level typically found in racing engines, and delivered impressive output for a naturally aspirated four-cylinder. However, the transmission struggled to keep up, and the steering lacked feel, resulting in a less dynamic driving experience. The RAV4's off-road capabilities were enhanced in the Trail and TRD Off-Road models, which featured torque-vectoring all-wheel drive and 21.7 cm of ground clearance, but its limited suspension articulation and approach angles were drawbacks on challenging trails.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator boasted a twin-turbo 3.5-litre V6 engine from the Ford Raptor, delivering 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive, the Navigator offered impressive acceleration and a satisfying engine sound. Its towing capacity was a substantial 3,765 kg. While fuel efficiency was not its strong suit, the Navigator excelled on highways with its plush cabin and powerful performance. The adaptive dampers provided a comfortable ride, though not as refined as the Cadillac Escalade's magnetic shocks. The Navigator's steering and brakes lacked the precision of its competitors, but its overall refinement and power made it a compelling choice for long-distance travel.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 offered a tall, upright roof that provided ample headroom and good outward visibility. However, legroom in both rows was slightly behind competitors. The front seats were comfortable, but the rear seats had flat, hard cushions, making long trips less appealing. Cargo space was above average, with 1,059 litres behind the rear seats and 1,977 litres with them folded, though still behind the Honda CR-V. The RAV4's interior featured oversized knobs and easy-to-use controls, but lacked large cupholders and storage spaces.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator provided a spacious interior, accommodating up to eight passengers with its optional bench seat. The boxy design contributed to generous cargo space, with 546 litres behind the third row, 1,627 litres behind the second, and 2,925 litres in total. The Navigator L model offered even more storage. The rear glass opened separately from the tailgate, adding convenience. The Navigator's front seats were highly adjustable and comfortable, with features like thigh extensions and massage programs. Visibility was excellent, but parking was challenging due to its size.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 came with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Most trims featured a 7-inch touchscreen, while higher trims offered an 8-inch screen. The infotainment system was user-friendly but lacked standout features. The RAV4 Prime model offered a 9-inch screen and a head-up display, which were not available on gasoline models. The system included up to five USB ports and an optional JBL premium audio system.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator featured a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which felt small compared to newer competitors. While it included Bluetooth and SiriusXM, it lacked wireless 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 lacked onboard apps and wireless updates. The Navigator offered wireless device charging and a rear entertainment system with Roku streaming.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 received a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention. However, it missed the highest rating due to mixed headlight scores. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall rating. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and blind spot monitoring. A 360-degree camera system was available in certain packages.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with four stars for rollover resistance. The IIHS had not rated it. Optional inflatable rear seat belts were a unique safety feature. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Adaptive cruise control was optional, but the Navigator's self-steering capabilities were not as advanced as competitors.