2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid vs 2021 Lincoln Navigator

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Limited, with its MSRP of $42,083, presented a blend of practicality and style, though it seemed a bit excessive for a RAV4. Despite being fully loaded, it maintained a modest appearance, similar to rental car models. The RAV4 Hybrid's design was robust for a compact SUV, but it could have benefited from larger wheels or an Adventure trim level. Inside, the RAV4 Hybrid was both stylish and functional, though the quality varied with a mix of impressive materials and hard plastics. A minor rattle from the license plate was noted, but overall, the interior was practical and user-friendly.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator Reserve, priced at $92,000, exuded elegance and sophistication, distinguishing itself from its Ford Expedition roots. Its design featured simple rectilinear shapes, a monochromatic grille, and subtle chrome accents, making it a standout in its class. The Pristine White model tested was particularly striking, with its illuminated Lincoln logo and 22-inch wheels. Inside, the Navigator impressed with its seven color palettes and attention to detail, such as the layered wood trim and floating center console. The materials were of high quality, and the Perfect Position seats offered unparalleled comfort with 30 adjustable settings.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with electric motors, producing 219 horsepower. This setup provided standard AWD and several driving modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, Trail, and EV. The RAV4 Hybrid weighed between 3,690 and 3,780 pounds, offering lively acceleration and a combined fuel economy of 40 mpg. Its CVT operated smoothly, and the regenerative braking system was effective. The suspension design and Active Cornering Assist system enhanced ride and handling, though the tires lacked grip in corners. Overall, the RAV4 Hybrid was a comfortable daily driver with decent off-road capabilities.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator featured a powerful twin-turbo V6 engine, delivering 450 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, it offered both RWD and 4WD options, with a towing capacity of up to 8,700 pounds. The Navigator's fuel economy was less impressive, averaging in the teens, but its adaptive dampers provided a comfortable ride. While the steering and brakes lacked precision, the Navigator excelled in highway refinement and power. Paddle shifters added a touch of sportiness, making it a formidable performer despite its size.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid offered comfort with an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, heated and ventilated front seats, and decent rear-seat legroom. The dashboard was well-organized, with oversized climate control knobs and an easy-to-use infotainment system. Storage was ample, with useful shelves and a roomy cargo area of 37.5 cubic feet, expandable to 69.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator provided ample space for six adults, with optional seating for up to eight. Its boxy design allowed for generous cargo space, with 19 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 103 cubic feet in total. The Navigator Reserve featured heated second-row seats and a three-zone climate system. The front seats were highly adjustable and comfortable, offering excellent visibility. However, parking was challenging due to its size, despite the 360-degree cameras.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid came with a choice of infotainment systems, featuring either a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen. It supported Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa, with a premium JBL audio system available. The system was user-friendly, with dynamic voice recognition and camera-based technology like a 360-degree surround-view camera.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator's 10-inch touchscreen felt outdated compared to competitors, lacking wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, it offered intuitive software, voice recognition, and onboard 4G WiFi. The rear entertainment system included Roku streaming, and the vehicle featured a smartwatch app and smartphone ignition key capability.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, lane-keep assist, and more. It received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and top marks from the IIHS, except for its headlights.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with four stars for rollover resistance in 4WD models. It offered standard safety features like automatic emergency braking and lane-keep assist, with optional inflatable rear seat belts for added protection.