2022 Toyota Venza vs 2023 Lincoln Aviator

The 2022 Toyota Venza re-emerged with a refined design, riding on the Toyota New Global Architecture K (TGNA-K) platform, which it shared with several other Toyota and Lexus models. This midsize crossover SUV measured 4,739 millimetres in length, 1,854 mm in width, and 1,674 mm in height, with a ground clearance of 196 mm and a wheelbase of 2,960 mm. Its exterior design was modern and elegant, 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. The front seats were supportive, and the rear seats comfortably accommodated three adults.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator presented itself as a luxurious three-row midsize crossover, showcasing Lincoln's modern design language. It featured a striking front grille and a sophisticated lighting sequence that welcomed drivers. The Aviator's interior was lavish, with a mix of patterned metal trim, gloss black surfaces, and chrome accents. The cabin was equipped with high-end materials, including soft leather and a simulated suede headliner. However, the third-row seating was cramped, making it less suitable for adults. The Aviator offered a range of comfort features, such as a four-zone climate control system and massaging front seats, but its third-row space was best used for additional cargo rather than passengers.

The 2022 Toyota Venza was powered by a 2.5-litre inline four-cylinder engine paired with three electric motors, delivering a combined 219 horsepower. This hybrid setup allowed for a balance between electric and gas drive, optimizing efficiency and performance. The Venza offered various drive modes, including electric-only (EV) for short distances, and regenerative braking helped recharge the lithium-ion battery. Its performance was sprightly, with agile handling, making it a suitable midsize family vehicle.

In contrast, the 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring was a plug-in hybrid with a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, producing an impressive 494 horsepower and 630 pound-feet of torque. It offered a 34-kilometre 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 manage battery usage. Despite its power, the Aviator's drivetrain was sometimes unpredictable, with inconsistent acceleration and braking behaviour. The available Dynamic Handling Package improved its cornering stance, but the Aviator was more about comfort and smoothness than sporty driving.

The 2022 Toyota Venza provided seating for five across two rows, with ample headroom and legroom. The second row offered 114.8 cm of hip room, making it comfortable for three adults. The cabin felt spacious, especially with the optional Star Gaze panoramic sunroof. The Venza's cargo capacity was impressive, with 816 litres behind the second row and up to 1,560 litres with the seats folded. Toyota focused on creating a quiet cabin, using sound-blocking materials throughout.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator prioritized comfort with features like a four-zone climate control system and massaging front seats. However, its third-row seating was cramped, with limited kneeroom and legroom. The Aviator offered 519 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,183 litres with the seats folded, and a maximum of 2,200 litres. The Aviator's interior was luxurious, but its third-row space was best used for cargo rather than passengers.

The 2022 Toyota Venza featured a hybrid powertrain that required no charging infrastructure, making it convenient for drivers without access to home charging stations. It included an eight-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and higher trims offered a 12.3-inch display, JBL audio system, and a head-up display. Toyota's Predicted Efficient Drive program optimized battery charging based on driving habits.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator was equipped with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, but it ran on the older Sync 3 software, which had limitations in voice recognition. The Aviator offered a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D audio system and smartphone-related tech like wireless charging and Phone As A Key. The digital instrumentation and head-up display were well-executed, but the Sync 3 system fell short of expectations.

The 2022 Toyota Venza came with the Toyota Star Safety System, including stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. It featured eight airbags and the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite, which included 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 2023 Lincoln Aviator offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection, and forward-collision warning. It also had blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and evasive steering assist. However, the steering wheel controls were unnecessarily complicated. The Aviator received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.