2022 Lincoln Navigator vs 2022 Toyota Venza

The 2022 Toyota Venza, reintroduced in 2021, was built on the robust Toyota New Global Architecture K platform, shared with several other Toyota and Lexus models. This midsize crossover SUV measured 4,739 mm in length, 1,854 mm in width, and 1,674 mm in height, with a ground clearance of 196 mm. Its design was sleek and modern, featuring a deeply scalloped body side and a prominent nose, making it more suited for urban environments than rugged terrains. Inside, the Venza offered a Lexus-like interior with high-quality materials, a layered dash, and a well-placed touchscreen display, providing a comfortable and elegant driving experience.

In contrast, the 2022 Lincoln Navigator underwent subtle styling changes, including new headlights, taillights, and wheel designs. The front end received a restyled grille, which some found less elegant than previous models. Despite this, the Navigator maintained its luxurious appeal with a mid-century modern interior design and high-quality materials. The new Constellation instrumentation and infotainment display theme added a touch of sophistication, while the updated Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen display enhanced the vehicle's technological appeal. The Navigator continued to offer a spacious and comfortable interior, with heated, ventilated, and massaging seats, making it a top choice for those seeking luxury and comfort.

The 2022 Toyota Venza featured a 2.5-litre inline four-cylinder engine paired with three electric motors, delivering a combined 219 horsepower. This hybrid setup allowed for efficient performance, with options for electric-only operation for short distances and various drive modes to optimize performance. The Venza's regenerative braking system helped recharge the lithium-ion battery, contributing to its agile handling and sprightly performance. While not designed for aggressive cornering, the Venza provided a smooth and comfortable ride, ideal for family travel.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator, equipped with a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, produced a robust 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. Its 10-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive in Canada offered impressive towing capabilities, ranging from 3,674 to 3,765 kilograms. The Navigator's adaptive-damping suspension with Road Preview technology ensured a smooth ride, even on imperfect roads. The SUV's electronic brake booster improved brake pedal feel and response, while its four-wheel drive and substantial ground clearance made it capable of handling various terrains. The Navigator's fuel consumption was rated at 13.2 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, with an observed average of 12.6 L/100 km during testing.

The 2022 Toyota Venza offered seating for five across two rows, with ample headroom and legroom. The second row featured a 60/40-split folding bench seat, providing 114.8 cm of hip room. The cabin felt spacious, especially with the available Star Gaze fixed panoramic glass sunroof. Convenience features included an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, electric parking brake, and multiple storage options. The Venza's cargo capacity was impressive, with 816 litres of space behind the second row and up to 1,560 litres with the seats folded flat. Toyota focused on creating a quiet cabin, using sound-blocking and absorbing materials throughout.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator continued to impress with its comfortable and adjustable front seats, offering heating, ventilation, and massaging functions. The second-row captain's chairs provided similar comfort, with the added benefit of the updated Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system. The third-row seat remained spacious and supportive, thanks to the independent rear suspension design. The Navigator offered generous storage and cargo space, with 546 litres behind the third row and up to 2,925 litres with the second-row seats collapsed. The long-wheelbase Navigator L provided even more cargo capacity, making it an excellent choice for larger families.

The 2022 Toyota Venza featured a hybrid powertrain that required no special attention, making it ideal for those without access to charging infrastructure. The Predicted Efficient Drive program optimized battery charging based on driving habits. The Venza's infotainment system included an eight-inch touchscreen, AM/FM/HD Radio, and SiriusXM satellite radio, with support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Higher trims offered a 12.3-inch touchscreen, JBL audio system, and a head-up display. Toyota Connected Services provided additional features, such as Safety Connect and Remote Connect.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator received a significant upgrade with the new Sync 4 infotainment system and a 13.2-inch touchscreen display. The system supported Bluetooth, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay, with a user-friendly interface and voice recognition. The Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system, now equipped with Amazon Fire TV, offered access to popular streaming services. The optional 28-speaker Revel 3D audio system delivered an exceptional listening experience, enhancing the Navigator's luxury appeal.

The 2022 Toyota Venza came equipped with the Toyota Star Safety System, which included stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, and more. It also featured eight airbags and the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite of driver aids, such as forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. The Venza received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced new driver assistance systems, including Intersection Assist, Active Park Assist 2.0, and ActiveGlide. The surround-view camera system became standard, enhancing safety. ActiveGlide, a semi-autonomous driving technology, allowed for hands-free driving on approved highways. While the system performed well, drivers were still required to remain attentive. These features represented steps toward fully autonomous driving, emphasizing the importance of responsible driving.