2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2021 Lincoln Aviator

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator stood out with its distinctive design, avoiding the common trend of mimicking competitors. Its sharp lines and chrome accents gave it a sophisticated appearance, reminiscent of the larger Navigator. Inside, the Aviator offered a luxurious cabin with soft-touch materials and a 10.1-inch touchscreen. The piano button shifter and soothing chimes added to its unique charm. Various trims, from Standard to Black Label Grand Touring, provided a range of features, including leather upholstery, multi-contour seats, and advanced audio systems.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling cues from the Tacoma, resulting in a rugged yet somewhat disjointed exterior. The interior featured an asymmetrical dash with practical storage solutions. The Bronze Edition's fabric upholstery was less appealing, but other trims offered more conventional materials. The Highlander Hybrid's design was functional, with spacious second-row seating and a less accommodating third row. Despite its unconventional style, it remained a practical choice for families seeking a hybrid option.

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator offered a powerful 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, delivering 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. The Grand Touring trims enhanced this with a plug-in hybrid setup, boosting output to 494 hp and 630 lb-ft of torque. This configuration allowed for up to 21 miles of electric-only driving. The Aviator excelled in highway driving but struggled with city maneuverability due to its size and body roll in corners. Its drive mode selector included unique options like "Excite" and "Conserve," emphasizing its focus on comfort over sportiness.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine producing 243 horsepower. Paired with a CVT, it offered standard FWD with optional AWD. The Highlander Hybrid reached 60 mph in just over 8 seconds, comparable to non-hybrid SUVs. Its electric motors provided initial acceleration, while the gasoline engine took over for sustained power. The ride was smooth, with effective suspension and minimal noise, though the engine's drone during heavy acceleration was noticeable. The Highlander prioritized comfort over sporty handling, making it suitable for family travel.

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator provided 18.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 77.7 cubic feet with all seats folded. The second row, especially in the Grand Touring model, offered captain's chairs and a digital control panel. However, the power-button door releases raised concerns about functionality if the battery failed.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid's front seats were comfortable, with ample storage options. The second row was spacious, accommodating taller passengers, while the third row was less suitable for adults. Cargo space measured 16 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 84.3 cubic feet with seats folded. The Highlander offered practical features like sliding second-row seats and built-in window shades.

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen with the Sync 3 infotainment system, offering a user-friendly interface and seamless integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The digital instrument panel and optional head-up display provided clear, easy-to-read information.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came with an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option for higher trims. The infotainment system was responsive, with physical shortcut buttons for convenience. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration, with navigation and premium audio available on higher trims.

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator was equipped with the Lincoln Co-Pilot 360 package, offering features like automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring. The Co-Pilot 360 Plus package added advanced features like adaptive cruise control. The Aviator received top safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, earning a Top Safety Pick accolade.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid achieved a five-star NHTSA rating and a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. While effective, some systems required fine-tuning, such as the adaptive cruise control's abrupt stops.