2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2022 Lincoln Nautilus

The 2022 Lincoln Nautilus, especially in the Black Label trim with its 21-inch machined-finish wheels, presented an attractive and balanced design. It avoided plainness with thoughtful detailing that added character. At night, the Lincoln Embrace lighting sequence welcomed drivers, and the Black Label model offered luxurious interior themes like Chalet and Flight, featuring premium leather upholstery. Despite its opulence, some interior elements like the center console and chrome-plated plastic pieces appeared less refined.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling cues from the Tacoma, giving it a rugged front appearance. However, its side profile introduced a swooping character line that added unnecessary visual weight, making it appear somewhat bloated. The rear design echoed the front's trapezoidal grille, but overall, the Highlander's design felt disjointed compared to more cohesive competitors. Inside, the asymmetrical dash and metallic styling elements added interest, but the fabric seat upholstery in the Bronze Edition seemed out of place and less durable.

The 2022 Lincoln Nautilus offered a choice between a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 250 horsepower and a twin-turbocharged 2.7-liter V6 engine producing 335 horsepower. The V6, standard on the Black Label, required all-wheel drive and delivered a comfortable and quiet ride, especially in Normal mode. The Nautilus averaged 25 mpg on a long trip, with a maximum highway range of 450 miles. Despite its athletic potential, the steering lacked engagement, though the V6 engine and adaptive suspension provided a smooth and enjoyable driving experience.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine producing 243 horsepower, paired with a CVT and standard front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive was available via an electric motor. The Highlander Hybrid accelerated to 60 mph in just over 8 seconds, with a smooth transition from electric to gasoline power. The ride quality was soft, and the cabin remained quiet on highways. While not sporty, the Highlander prioritized comfort, making it a suitable choice for families.

Inside the Nautilus Black Label, passengers enjoyed premium leather, ambient lighting, and a quiet cabin. The front seats offered 22-way power adjustments and massage functions, ensuring comfort on long drives. However, rear legroom was tight for a midsize SUV. Cargo space was practical, with 37.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 68.8 cubic feet with them folded.

The Highlander Hybrid's front seats were comfortable with ample adjustments, though the driver's armrest was awkwardly positioned. Storage options were plentiful, with trays and bins for personal items. The second row was spacious, offering sliding and reclining seats, while the third row was less accommodating, suitable for children or short trips. Cargo space ranged from 16 cubic feet behind the third row to 84.3 cubic feet with all seats folded.

The Lincoln Nautilus featured a 13.2-inch touchscreen with Sync 4 software, offering over-the-air updates, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Black Label included a 19-speaker Revel audio system and Phone as a Key technology. The system was intuitive, with physical controls for stereo and climate settings.

The Highlander Hybrid came with an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option on higher trims. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. Higher trims offered a wireless charging pad and JBL audio system. The infotainment system was responsive, with physical buttons for ease of use.

The 2022 Nautilus included Lincoln Co-Pilot360 1.0, featuring forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. The Black Label added adaptive cruise control and a surround-view camera. It earned a five-star overall rating from NHTSA, though IIHS had not rated it.

The Highlander Hybrid received a five-star NHTSA rating and was an IIHS Top Safety Pick+. Standard features included adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. While effective, some systems needed fine-tuning, such as the adaptive cruise control's abrupt stops.