2024 Toyota Sequoia 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 elevated this with a hybrid system, integrating a 75-kilowatt electric motor and a 13.6-kilowatt-hour battery pack. Despite its luxurious appeal, the Aviator's design was somewhat marred by its plain wheel designs, which did not complement its high price tag. The interior was lavish, featuring high-end materials and a plethora of design elements, though some chrome detailing felt cheap. The Aviator's cabin was a mix of Art Deco flair, with ambient lighting and soft-close doors enhancing the luxury experience, albeit with some ergonomic quirks.

In contrast, the 2024 Toyota Sequoia shared its platform with the Tundra pickup, showcasing a robust design with hexagonal grilles and muscular stances. The Capstone model, adorned in Celestial Silver, exuded a slightly dated appearance. Inside, the Sequoia mirrored the Tundra's blocky, geometric dashboard, with physical controls for climate and audio. The Capstone trim featured semi-aniline leather upholstery, while the base SR5 TRD Offroad trim offered SofTex leatherette. The Sequoia's interior was spacious, with power-adjustable front seats and a standard power-tilt and -slide moonroof, providing a comfortable and functional environment for occupants.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring was a plug-in hybrid that delivered impressive power with 494 horsepower and 630 pound-feet of torque. Despite its added weight from the electric motor and battery, 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 usage. 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 drive. However, the drivetrain's responsiveness was inconsistent, and the regenerative braking system required careful handling for smooth stops. The Aviator's Dynamic Handling Package provided a stable and comfortable ride, though it lacked the excitement of a sportier SUV.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia, exclusively available as a hybrid, utilized the iForce MAX powertrain, combining a twin-turbo V6 engine with an electric motor. This setup produced 427 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque, surpassing its V8 predecessor. The Sequoia's fuel economy improved significantly, rated at 11.7 L/100 km combined with 4WD. The standard 4WD system included a selector for 4Hi, 4Lo, and 2WD, with TRD Pro models featuring additional off-road capabilities. The Sequoia's towing capacity reached 4,137 kilograms, with available towing upgrades enhancing its utility. While its on-road handling was adequate, the Sequoia excelled in providing a balanced blend of power and efficiency for everyday driving.

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 offered ample space and storage, but the third row was cramped for adults, with limited legroom and a flat cushion. Cargo space was modest, with 519 litres behind the third row and a maximum of 2,200 litres with seats folded.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia offered a maximum of 2,460 litres of cargo space with both rear rows folded. The second-row seats were easy to move for third-row access, though the third-row seats did not create a flat load floor due to the hybrid battery placement. Headroom was slightly reduced, and legroom varied across rows, with the Sequoia trailing some rivals in space. Second-row captain's chairs were available on higher trims, providing wide but flat seating.

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 outdated Sync 3 software, which struggled with 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 and parking sensors enhanced convenience, though the Active Park Assist 2.0 system was not tested.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia Capstone featured a 14-inch touchscreen with the Toyota Audio Multimedia system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment system prioritized functionality over flashiness, with a 12.3-inch driver information display standard across trims. The Panoramic View monitor and 10-inch head-up display were standard on higher trims, while a 14-speaker JBL audio system was available on select models.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator came with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping assist. The Aviator's driver aids performed well on highways but were less reliable in dense traffic. The steering wheel controls were unnecessarily complex, detracting from the user experience. The Aviator received a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia included the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 suite as standard, featuring adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and pedestrian detection. Front and rear parking sensors with automatic braking were also standard. The only optional driver aid was a trailer backup guide with Straight-Path Assist. The Sequoia had not been rated by safety organizations, but the similar Tundra earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS.