2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2022 Lincoln Navigator

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling elements from Toyota's Tacoma, featuring a rugged trapezoidal grille and upright fascia. This design gave it a robust appearance, popular among midsized SUVs. However, the side profile introduced a swooping character line over the rear wheel arch, reminiscent of the Toyota Supra and Sienna, which added unnecessary visual weight. The rear echoed the trapezoidal grille, but the overall design felt disjointed compared to competitors like the Kia Telluride and Honda Pilot. Inside, the Highlander Hybrid's asymmetrical dash featured a metallic styling element that broke monotony and provided storage. The infotainment touchscreen was positioned high for easy visibility, but the Bronze Edition's light grey fabric upholstery with an odd triangle motif seemed impractical for families.

In contrast, the 2022 Lincoln Navigator underwent subtle styling changes, including new headlights, taillights, and wheel designs. The front end received an Audi-esque grille, which some felt lacked the elegance of previous models. Despite this, the Navigator's updates were largely successful. Inside, it dazzled with quality materials and a mid-century modern design, featuring Lincoln’s Constellation display theme. The new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen was a significant upgrade, offering dual data panels for navigation and music. The Navigator continued to impress with its luxurious interior, including heated, ventilated, and massaging seats, and a new rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine producing 243 horsepower, paired with a CVT and standard FWD. AWD was available via an electric motor for the rear axle. It reached 60 mph in just over 8 seconds, slightly slower than gasoline-only SUVs. The hybrid powertrain provided a quick start, with the gasoline engine kicking in for sustained power. The CVT's drone was noticeable during heavy acceleration, especially uphill. The Highlander offered a soft ride, with a suspension that smoothed bumps without compromising cornering confidence. It was one of the quieter midsize SUVs, provided the engine wasn't pushed hard.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator featured a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. It offered RWD or 4WD, with a towing capacity between 8,100 and 8,700 pounds. The Navigator's adaptive-damping suspension with Road Preview improved ride quality, even on imperfect roads. A new electronic brake booster enhanced braking feel. During testing, the Navigator handled snow and mud effortlessly, thanks to its 4WD and 9.7 inches of ground clearance. It averaged 18.6 mpg in combined driving, slightly above the EPA estimate.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid offered well-cushioned front seats with ample adjustments, though the driver's door armrest was awkwardly positioned. Storage was plentiful, with trays and bins for personal items. The second-row seats were spacious, with sliding and reclining captain's chairs or an optional bench for eight-passenger capacity. The third row was less accommodating, suitable for children or short trips. Cargo space was 16 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 84.3 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator boasted exceptionally comfortable 30-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The second-row captain’s chairs also offered these features, enhancing comfort. The third row provided roomy accommodations, thanks to an independent rear suspension. Storage and cargo space were generous, with 19.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 103.3 cubic feet with seats folded. The long-wheelbase Navigator L offered even more space.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option for higher trims. The system was responsive, with logical menus and physical shortcut buttons. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. Higher trims offered a wireless charging pad, navigation, and an 11-speaker JBL audio system.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced a new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen. It supported Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, with user-friendly controls and voice recognition. The Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system included Amazon Fire TV, offering access to streaming services. A 28-speaker Revel 3D audio system provided exceptional sound quality.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid earned a five-star NHTSA rating and IIHS Top Safety Pick+. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. However, some systems needed fine-tuning, such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced new driver assistance systems like Intersection Assist, Road Edge Detection, and ActiveGlide, a semi-autonomous driving technology. ActiveGlide performed well on approved highways, though driver attention was still required. The Navigator also featured a surround-view camera system and Active Park Assist 2.0.