2023 Toyota 4Runner vs 2023 Lincoln Aviator

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator presented itself as a sophisticated three-row, midsize crossover, boasting a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The Grand Touring model enhanced this with a hybrid system, adding a 75-kilowatt electric motor and a 13.6-kilowatt-hour battery pack. Despite its luxurious appeal, the Aviator's wheel design was considered plain, and the electronic door latches required careful handling to avoid pinching. Inside, the Aviator's cabin was a mix of high-end materials and Art Deco-inspired design, though some chrome details felt less premium. The vehicle's key fob was lightweight and plasticky, but the optional Phone As A Key technology offered a modern alternative.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota 4Runner 40th Anniversary Special Edition, based on the SR5 trim, featured retro body stripes, a heritage grille, and bronze accents. It maintained a classic truck-based SUV look, appealing to those nostalgic for the 1970s. The interior, while practical, was filled with durable plastic and straightforward controls, making it user-friendly even with gloves on. The 4Runner's design emphasized functionality over luxury, with a focus on off-road capability and a robust, enduring appeal. Despite its retro charm, the 4Runner's interior lacked the opulence of the Aviator, focusing instead on practicality and durability.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring, a plug-in hybrid, delivered impressive power with 494 horsepower and 630 pound-feet of torque. Despite its added weight, 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, allowing drivers to optimize battery use. During testing, the Aviator demonstrated efficient use of electric power, achieving a fuel economy equivalent to 1.4 L/100 km over a 35.8-kilometre electric drive. The twin-turbo V6 provided ample power, though the drivetrain's responsiveness varied. The Aviator's handling was enhanced by the Dynamic Handling Package, offering a smooth and quiet ride, though it lacked the excitement of sportier SUVs.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner, equipped with a 4.0-litre V6 engine, produced 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. It featured a five-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive, with a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. The 4Runner's fuel economy was rated at 13.8 litres per 100 kilometres, with a tested average of 13.9 L/100 km. It offered two 4WD systems, with the Limited trim providing a full-time 4WD option. The 4Runner excelled in off-road conditions, with features like Active Traction Control, a locking rear differential, and Multi-Terrain Select. However, its on-road performance was less refined, with leisurely acceleration, heavy steering, and a bumpy ride over rough surfaces. The 4Runner was more at home in rugged terrain, showcasing its truck-based construction.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator prioritized comfort with features like a four-zone automatic climate control system, heated and ventilated seats, and massaging 30-way Perfect Position front seats. The second-row captain's chairs were spacious and supportive, though the third row was cramped for adults. With the third row in use, the Aviator offered 519 litres of cargo space, expanding to 1,183 litres with the seats folded flat, and a maximum of 2,200 litres. The Aviator's interior was luxurious, though the third row was best suited for children or short trips.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner offered a unique feature with its power-down rear window, enhancing ventilation and providing an open-air experience. The interior was practical, with comfortable seats and dual-zone climate control. The second-row seating was roomy, but the optional third row was cramped and reduced cargo space. Without the third row, the 4Runner provided 1,337 litres of cargo space, making it a practical choice for families. The cargo area included storage cubbies and a 120-volt AC power outlet, adding to its utility. The 4Runner's interior focused on functionality, with easy access to controls and ample storage.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring was equipped with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a navigation system. However, it ran on the older Sync 3 software, which struggled with voice recognition. The Aviator also offered a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D audio system, wireless charging, and a Phone As A Key digital key system. The digital instrumentation and head-up display were user-friendly, and the vehicle included rain-sensing wipers and parking sensors. Despite its technological offerings, the Aviator's infotainment system was not as intuitive as expected for a luxury SUV.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The system was user-friendly, with large knobs and buttons suitable for gloved use. The 4Runner offered a navigation system and a JBL premium sound system as upgrades. The voice recognition system performed well, handling most commands accurately. While the infotainment graphics were dated, the system's functionality was reliable. The 4Runner's technology focused on practicality, providing essential features without unnecessary complexity.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator came with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Lincoln Co-Pilot360 collections of driver aids. The test vehicle included adaptive cruise control, road-sign recognition, pedestrian detection, and forward-collision warning. It also had blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, and evasive steering assist. The Aviator's safety systems performed well, though the lane-keeping system was less reliable in heavy traffic. The Aviator received a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner included Toyota Safety Sense features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard across all trims. The adaptive cruise control provided smooth braking, though acceleration was slow to resume. The 4Runner's safety ratings were less impressive, with a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a three-star rating for front passenger protection. The 4Runner's safety features were adequate, but its crash-test ratings reflected its older design.