2023 Lincoln Navigator vs 2023 Toyota 4Runner

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner, particularly the 40th Anniversary Special Edition (40 ASE), was a nostalgic nod to the past with its retro body stripes and heritage grille design. This special edition, based on the SR5 trim, added a unique flair with bronze 17-inch wheels and badges, and was available in black, white, or red paint. The interior, while filled with plastic, felt solid and purposeful, with controls that were easy to use even with gloves on. The 4Runner's design was reminiscent of truck-based SUVs from the past, offering an enduring appeal.

In contrast, the 2023 Lincoln Navigator maintained its luxurious presence without significant updates since its last redesign in 2018. The Navigator Reserve model, with its triple-black exterior and Monochromatic Package, exuded sophistication. The interior was upscale, featuring real wood trim and chrome accents, though some switchgear failed to convey the luxury expected. The ambient lighting added character, and the cabin was spacious and comfortable, though the chrome plastic on some controls detracted from the overall premium feel.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner was equipped with a 4.0-litre V6 engine, producing 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 offered two 4WD systems, with the Limited trim providing a full-time 4WD system. Despite its off-road prowess, the 4Runner's on-road performance was less impressive, with leisurely acceleration and heavy steering. It excelled in off-road conditions, thanks to features like Active Traction Control and Multi-Terrain Select.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator, on the other hand, boasted a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and 4WD, it offered a more powerful and refined driving experience. The Navigator featured five drive modes, including Excite for spirited driving, though it impacted fuel efficiency. Despite its size, the Navigator felt nimble on mountain roads, though its weight challenged the brakes. In urban settings, its size was a liability, making parking and manoeuvring difficult.

The Toyota 4Runner's interior was practical, with a power-down rear window and comfortable seats. The second-row offered good legroom and headroom, while the optional third-row seat was cramped and reduced cargo space. Without the third-row, the 4Runner provided 1,337 litres of cargo space, making it a versatile midsize SUV. Storage options were plentiful, though some lacked rubber liners, causing items to rattle.

The Lincoln Navigator excelled in functionality, with power-deploying running boards and 30-way adjustable front seats offering heating, ventilation, and massage. The second-row captain's chairs were spacious, and the third-row accommodated adults comfortably. Storage was generous, with various trays and covered compartments. The Navigator L model offered even more cargo space, with up to 3,403 litres available, making it ideal for carrying both passengers and luggage.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner featured traditional analog gauges and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio, with optional upgrades like a JBL premium sound system. The voice recognition system performed well, though it had limitations with certain commands. The infotainment system, while dated, was user-friendly and functional.

The Lincoln Navigator offered a more advanced technology suite, with a 12-inch digital instrumentation display and a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It included wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a navigation system, and a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D Audio System. The digital assistant was highly effective, though the wireless smartphone charger caused overheating issues. Lincoln Play provided rear-seat entertainment, though it was underutilized by passengers.

The Toyota 4Runner came with Toyota Safety Sense, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. However, its crash-test ratings were less impressive, with a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Marginal rating from the IIHS for driver protection in small overlap frontal-impact tests.

The Lincoln Navigator was equipped with the Co-Pilot360 suite, featuring advanced driving assistance systems like BlueCruise for hands-free driving. However, BlueCruise had limitations, struggling with curves and sudden lane changes. The Navigator received a five-star side-impact protection rating and a four-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA.