2023 Lincoln Navigator vs 2022 Toyota 4Runner

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner retained its rugged, adventure-ready design, reminiscent of its 1980s SUV roots. Unlike many modern SUVs that have shifted to car-based platforms, the 4Runner maintained its connection to the Toyota Tacoma pickup, offering a robust and off-road-capable experience. Its high ride height, boxy proportions, and sharply angled front bumper were all designed for tackling obstacles, making it a niche choice for those who ventured off the beaten path. Inside, the 4Runner's design was functional but dated, with a dash layout that harked back to the late 2000s. Despite its age, the 4Runner offered a range of trims and packages, each catering to different driving needs, from the off-road-focused TRD Pro to the more road-oriented Limited trim.

In contrast, the 2023 Lincoln Navigator exuded luxury and sophistication, even as it awaited a future electric transformation. As Lincoln's flagship SUV, it offered a spacious and upscale interior, with the Navigator Reserve trim being the sole option in Canada. The test vehicle featured a Monochromatic Package, adding black 22-inch wheels and body-colour trim, though keeping it clean proved challenging. The Navigator's cabin was adorned with quality materials, including real wood trim and chrome accents, though some switchgear failed to convey the expected luxury. Despite its size, the Navigator's interior was designed for comfort, with power-adjustable front seats and ample room in all three rows, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a blend of utility and luxury.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a single 4.0-litre V6 engine, delivering 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. While reliable, this engine felt dated and underwhelming in most driving situations, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD with low range. The 4Runner's ride was harsh and cumbersome, with significant body roll and a rough suspension on paved roads. However, off-road, the 4Runner excelled, with its suspension absorbing rocks and bumps effortlessly. The TRD Pro and TRD Off-Road models offered additional off-road features like Crawl Control and a locking differential. With a towing capacity of up to 2,268 kilograms, the 4Runner outperformed most car-based crossovers in this regard.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator, on the other hand, boasted a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and 4WD, the Navigator offered a more powerful and refined driving experience. It featured five Lincoln Drive Modes, including Conserve, Normal, Excite, Slippery, and Deep Conditions, with an optional Hill Climb mode. The adaptive damping suspension, however, did not deliver the expected ride quality, with the Navigator feeling like a truck over smaller bumps. In Excite mode, the suspension stiffened, improving the ride but impacting fuel efficiency. Despite its size, the Navigator felt smaller on mountain roads, though its weight challenged the brakes. In urban settings, its size proved a liability, making parking and manoeuvring difficult.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner offered a maximum cargo capacity of 2,540 litres in the two-row version, slightly more than the three-row model. With the second-row seats in use, the two-row 4Runner provided 1,337 litres of cargo space. The three-row version, available only on the Limited package, reduced maximum cargo space to 2,514 litres, with 1,311 litres behind the second row and just 254 litres behind the rear seats. While the 4Runner lacked a power rear liftgate, it featured a power-open/close rear window, adding convenience. Despite its age, the 4Runner's cabin was functional, though not as spacious or efficient as more modern SUVs.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator excelled in functionality, offering roomy seats in all three rows and an available extended body style for increased cargo capacity. Power-deploying running boards facilitated entry and exit, while the 30-way Perfect Position power-adjustable front seats provided comfort, though their numerous adjustments could be overwhelming. The second-row captain's chairs were spacious, with a pass-through to the third row, where even taller adults found ample headroom and legroom. Storage space was generous, with various trays and compartments throughout the cabin. The long-wheelbase Navigator L model offered significantly more cargo space, making it ideal for carrying both passengers and luggage.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, SiriusXM satellite radio, and multiple USB ports. While the system was straightforward and relied on tactile controls, it lacked advanced features like a head-up display. The infotainment system covered the basics, appealing to those who appreciated the 4Runner's near-analog driving style.

In contrast, the 2023 Lincoln Navigator featured a 12-inch digital instrumentation display, a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and an available widescreen head-up display. The Sync 4 infotainment system included Bluetooth, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM 360L satellite radio, Lincoln Connect services, and Alexa Built-in. The digital assistant excelled in voice recognition, while the 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D Audio System provided lush sound. The Navigator also offered Phone As A Key technology, allowing owners to unlock, start, and drive the SUV using a digital key. However, the wireless smartphone charger caused the phone to overheat, and the Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system went unused by teenagers.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner was equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense suite, including forward automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and lane-departure warning. The 4Runner earned four out of five stars for frontal and side-impact testing from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, but only three stars for rollover testing. It was backed by a five-year/100,000-kilometre powertrain warranty.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator featured the Co-Pilot360 suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot monitoring. It also offered Evasive Steering Assist, Intersection Assist, and BlueCruise, a hands-free driving assist system. BlueCruise worked on designated Hands-Free Blue Zones but struggled with curves and construction zones. The Navigator received a 5-star side-impact protection rating and a 4-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA.