2023 Lincoln Aviator vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, a continuation of a 2019 redesign, was a mature crossover SUV that had evolved significantly from its original "cute ute" categorization. Its exterior design, while fitting in with the general crossover aesthetic, featured distinctive angular flourishes and crisp lines that contrasted with the organic shapes of the body-side bends. The RAV4's expressive headlights and snub-nosed grille gave it a playful yet aggressive Kabuki-like face. Inside, the RAV4 boasted a layered dash with contrasting textures and colours, anchored by a straightforward centre stack. The interior design included a circuit-board-inspired geometric pattern that tied various cabin elements together, enhancing the overall quality feel.

In contrast, the 2023 Lincoln Aviator was a three-row, midsize crossover that exuded luxury and sophistication. Its exterior showcased the modern Lincoln face and grille, although the wheel designs on the Grand Touring model were considered too plain. The Aviator's interior was undeniably fancy, with patterned metal trim, gloss black surfaces, chrome accents, and exposed stitching. The materials were mostly high-end, featuring soft leather and a swanky simulated suede headliner. However, some chrome detailing appeared cheap, and the key fob felt too lightweight for a vehicle of this calibre. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Aviator's interior was a feast for the eyes, especially for those who appreciated an Art Deco style.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered three powertrains, with the gasoline-only model featuring a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. It came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available on higher trims. The RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre engine with an electric motor, delivering 217 horsepower and impressive fuel economy ratings. The RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid was the most powerful, with 302 horsepower and the ability to run up to 68 kilometres on electricity alone. The RAV4's handling was car-like, with a four-wheel independent suspension and dynamic torque vectoring for improved cornering.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring, a plug-in hybrid, boasted a powerful drivetrain with 494 horsepower and 630 pound-feet of torque. It offered 34 kilometres of electric driving range and averaged 10.3 litres per 100 kilometres in hybrid mode. The Aviator featured multiple driving modes, including Pure EV and Preserve EV, to optimize efficiency. While the Aviator was quick and powerful, its drivetrain could be unpredictable, and the brake pedal sometimes produced inconsistent behaviour. The available Dynamic Handling Package with adaptive-damping suspension provided a smooth and quiet ride, although the Aviator wasn't particularly fun to drive.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, classified as a small SUV, offered ample cargo space with 1,059 litres behind the second row and 1,977 litres with the seats folded flat. It had a healthy payload capacity and towing capabilities, making it a versatile choice for various needs. Inside, the RAV4 was roomy and comfortable for four passengers, with plenty of legroom and storage options. The front seats provided a no-compromise space, while the second-row bench seat could accommodate a fifth passenger in a pinch.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator prioritized comfort with features like a four-zone automatic climate control system, heated and ventilated seats, and massaging front seats. However, the third-row seating was cramped and not suitable for adults, with limited legroom and support. The Aviator offered 519 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,183 litres with the seats folded flat. Maximum cargo space reached 2,200 litres, making it a practical choice for those who frequently needed to transport larger loads.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came equipped with a range of technology features, including a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, and a six-speaker audio system. Higher trims offered a 9-inch touchscreen, an 11-speaker JBL audio system, and additional connectivity options. The RAV4 Prime showcased advanced technology with multiple USB ports, auxiliary power outlets, and available features like a bird’s-eye view camera system and a head-up display.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring was loaded with technology, featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a navigation system. However, it ran on Lincoln's older Sync 3 software, which had limitations in voice recognition. The Aviator also included a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D audio system, wireless charging, and a digital key system. The head-up display was effective even with polarized sunglasses, and the vehicle offered advanced parking assistance features.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with Toyota's Star Safety System, which included features like enhanced vehicle stability control, traction control, and anti-lock braking. It also came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering driver-assist systems such as adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and automatic emergency braking. The RAV4 received high safety ratings, including a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator featured a comprehensive suite of safety features, including multiple air bags and Lincoln Co-Pilot360 driver aids. Our test vehicle included adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. While the driver aids performed well on highways, they were less dependable in heavy traffic. The Aviator received a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.