2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2023 Lincoln Navigator

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling elements from Toyota's Tacoma, featuring a trapezoidal grille and upright fascia that gave it a rugged look. However, the side profile introduced a swooping character line that added unnecessary visual weight, making it appear somewhat bloated. The rear design echoed the front grille, but the overall aesthetic felt disjointed compared to more cohesive competitors like the Kia Telluride. Inside, the Highlander Hybrid's asymmetrical dash and metallic styling element added interest, while the high-mounted infotainment screen reduced driver distraction. The Bronze Edition's light grey fabric upholstery, however, was prone to dirt and felt less durable, with Softex synthetic leather resembling vinyl.

In contrast, the 2023 Lincoln Navigator maintained its luxurious appeal without significant updates since its 2018 redesign. The test vehicle, a triple-black Navigator Reserve, featured a Monochromatic Package with black 22-inch wheels and body-color trim. The interior boasted upscale materials, including real wood trim and chrome accents, though some switchgear felt less luxurious. Ambient lighting added character, and the cabin was spacious and comfortable, with Lincoln's 30-way Perfect Position seats offering heating, ventilation, and massage. However, the multitude of adjustments proved challenging to perfect.

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 rivals. The hybrid powertrain provided a quick but tepid initial response, with the gasoline engine supplying adequate power thereafter. The CVT's uninspired drone was noticeable during acceleration, especially uphill. The ride was soft yet confident, with minimal wind and road noise, making it one of the quieter midsize SUVs.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator featured a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and 4WD. It averaged 15.6 mpg in testing, below its EPA rating of 18 mpg. Five drive modes, including Excite, adjusted the suspension and powertrain response. The Navigator's ride quality was inconsistent, with the Reserve trim's 22-inch wheels contributing to a truck-like feel over bumps. Excite mode improved handling but reduced fuel efficiency. The SUV felt smaller on mountain roads, though its nearly three-ton weight challenged the brakes.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid offered well-cushioned front seats with ample adjustments, though the driver's armrest was awkwardly positioned. Storage was plentiful, with trays and bins throughout the cabin. 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 2023 Lincoln Navigator excelled in functionality, with roomy seats across all three rows and an available extended body style for more cargo space. Power-deploying running boards aided entry, and the 30-way adjustable front seats offered comfort, though adjustments were tricky. Storage was generous, with covered cupholders and a wireless charging pad. The Navigator L model provided substantial cargo space, with up to 120.2 cubic feet available.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option for top trims. The system was responsive, with logical menus and physical shortcut buttons. Standard tech included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa, with navigation and a JBL audio system available on higher trims.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator boasted a 12-inch digital instrumentation display and a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The Sync 4 system included wireless smartphone integration, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and Alexa Built-in. The digital assistant performed well, though the wireless charger overheated phones. The 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D Audio System provided excellent sound, and Lincoln Play offered rear-seat entertainment, though it went unused by teenagers.

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. The systems generally performed well but required some fine-tuning.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator came with Lincoln Co-Pilot360 2.0 packages, featuring Evasive Steering Assist, Intersection Assist, and BlueCruise hands-free driving. BlueCruise worked on designated highways but struggled with curves and construction zones. The Navigator received a five-star side-impact rating and a four-star rollover rating from the NHTSA.