2024 Toyota 4Runner vs 2025 Lincoln Aviator

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner was a nostalgic nod to the past, with its design largely unchanged since 2010. Its boxy shape and flared fenders gave it a rugged, stable appearance, ideal for off-road adventures. The TRD Pro model enhanced this tough persona with underbody skid plates and all-terrain tires. However, the interior showed its age with outdated technology and styling, featuring an analog instrument panel and a small eight-inch infotainment touchscreen. While the hard plastic surfaces were typical for off-road vehicles, the grained upholstery attempted to mimic leather but fell short.

In contrast, the 2025 Lincoln Aviator boasted a more modern and appealing design, though its 2025 styling was considered less elegant than previous models. The SUV's plush interior exuded a classic architectural sensibility, with a focus on comfort rather than overwhelming technology. The Aviator's remote keyless entry fob was a letdown, but the Phone as a Key technology offered a modern alternative. The Aviator's design was fundamentally appealing, resembling a sports wagon more than a traditional SUV, with a tapered roofline that compromised third-row space but created an alluring silhouette.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a 4.0-litre V6 engine, producing 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. While these figures were competitive with rivals like the Bronco and Wrangler, the 4Runner's five-speed automatic transmission held it back, resulting in slower acceleration and less efficient fuel economy. The TRD Pro model featured standard four-wheel drive and a two-speed transfer case, making it capable off-road. However, on pavement, the 4Runner felt sluggish, with noticeable rear-end squat during acceleration and a noisy engine. The soft suspension provided excellent wheel articulation off-road but resulted in body roll and floatiness on highways.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator, on the other hand, offered a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, delivering an impressive 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque through a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Aviator's driving modes, including Excite and Normal, allowed for a tailored driving experience, though it wasn't particularly thrilling to drive. The adaptive air suspension provided a comfortable ride, but the oversized tires generated road noise on highways. Despite its power, the Aviator's steering and handling lacked athleticism, focusing instead on providing a composed and calming driving experience.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner's interior was functional but dated, with large climate-control dials and sturdy handles for off-road stability. The front seats offered ample space, though taller drivers might find the steering wheel's reach limited. The second-row provided generous legroom, but headroom was restricted due to the elevated bench. The 4Runner's cargo capacity was impressive, with up to 2,540 litres available when the rear seats were stowed. However, the lack of remote seat releases and a powered liftgate were drawbacks.

In contrast, the 2025 Lincoln Aviator excelled in comfort, with its Perfect Position front seats offering 30-way adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The second-row captain's chairs were roomy and supportive, though the third-row seats were less accommodating for adults. The Aviator's storage solutions were well thought out, with ample space in the centre console and door pockets. Cargo capacity was generous, with 2,149 litres available when the third row was folded, though not as much as some competitors.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner's infotainment system was basic, with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the small touchscreen was challenging to use while driving. The TRD Pro model featured a 15-speaker JBL audio system, but road noise often obscured its quality. Additional terrain controls were available, but their pictogram labels required consulting the owner's manual for full understanding.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator featured a 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster and a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system powered by Lincoln Digital Experience. While the system supported Google Built-in and Alexa Built-in, our test vehicle struggled with voice commands. However, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto worked seamlessly. The Aviator's 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D sound system was impressive, and the head-up display provided valuable information, including blind-spot warnings.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner received mixed safety ratings, with four out of five stars from NHTSA for overall and frontal crash protection, and five stars for side impacts. However, it scored three stars in rollover evaluations. The IIHS gave it "Good" ratings for moderate frontal overlap and side protection tests, but "Marginal" and "Poor" results in the small overlap frontal test. The 4Runner included standard driver assistance features like adaptive cruise control and forward collision warning, though some alerts were overly sensitive.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator came equipped with Lincoln Co-Pilot360 Drive 2.0, offering advanced driver assistance systems such as active blind-spot monitoring, intersection assist, and evasive steering assist. BlueCruise, a hands-free driving assistance system, was standard, providing a proactive approach to driver control. The Aviator earned five-star ratings from NHTSA and "Good" ratings from IIHS, indicating strong safety performance.