2022 Volkswagen Taos vs 2023 Lincoln Aviator

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos was positioned as a compact SUV, bridging the gap between subcompact and compact crossovers. It competed with models like the Kia Seltos, Jeep Compass, and Subaru Crosstrek. The Taos was available in Trendline, Comfortline, and Highline trims, with a single engine option. The base model offered a choice between front-wheel drive and 4Motion all-wheel drive. The Taos's design was consistent with Volkswagen's lineup, featuring roof rails, dark grey plastic cladding, and simulated skid plates. However, the interior was criticized for its hard plastic surfaces, though it offered soft-touch materials in key areas. The Highline trim boasted two-tone perforated leather and an upscale dashboard.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator was a midsize luxury SUV with a focus on comfort and style. It featured a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, with the Grand Touring model adding a hybrid system. The Aviator's design was highlighted by its modern Lincoln face and grille, though the wheel designs were considered plain. The interior was luxurious, with patterned metal trim, chrome accents, and a panoramic glass sunroof. The Aviator offered a range of comfort features, including massaging front seats and a four-zone climate control system. However, the third-row seating was cramped, making it less suitable for adults.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos was powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. The engine's torque delivery was delayed, leading to a sudden surge of power. The seven-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission paired with the 4Motion AWD system offered spirited performance but was criticized for erratic shifting. The standard 8-speed automatic transmission provided smoother driving but was limited to front-wheel drive. The Taos's handling was praised for its responsive steering and effective brakes, though its ground clearance was less than some competitors. Fuel efficiency was rated at 8.5 L/100 km, with real-world testing showing 8.7 L/100 km.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring was a plug-in hybrid with a combined output of 494 horsepower and 630 lb-ft of torque. It offered 34 kilometres of electric driving range and averaged 10.3 L/100 km in hybrid mode. The Aviator's driving modes allowed for a mix of electric and gasoline power, with the ability to recharge the battery in under four hours using a Level 2 charger. The Aviator's performance was powerful, but the drivetrain was sometimes unpredictable. The brake pedal exhibited inconsistent behaviour due to the regenerative braking system. The Aviator's handling was enhanced by the Dynamic Handling Package, providing a smooth and quiet ride, though it lacked the fun-to-drive factor.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos offered a spacious interior, with deeply bolstered front seats and generous rear legroom. The Highline trim included heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. Cargo space varied depending on the drive system, with the front-wheel-drive model offering more volume. The Taos featured a centre pass-through for ski trips, but the cargo area was less impressive compared to its interior space.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator prioritized comfort, with features like a four-zone climate control system and massaging front seats. The second-row captain's chairs were roomy, but the third-row seating was cramped and difficult to access. Cargo space was limited with the third row in use, but folding it down increased capacity. The Aviator's interior was luxurious, but the third row was not suitable for adults.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos came with a Digital Cockpit instrument cluster and a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Higher trims featured an 8-inch display with MIB3 software, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a BeatsAudio premium sound system. However, the infotainment system was criticized for its complex user experience and unreliable voice recognition.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring was equipped with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a navigation system. It ran on the older Sync 3 software, which struggled with voice recognition. The Aviator featured a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D audio system and a digital key system. The head-up display was visible even with polarized sunglasses, and the parking sensors and camera system were useful for parking.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos offered a range of safety features, but many were only available on higher trims or as part of an extra-cost package. These included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot warning. The Taos also featured Travel Assist and Emergency Assist, providing advanced driving assistance. However, the reverse automatic braking system was overly sensitive and could be turned off.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator came with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. The Aviator's driver aids performed well on highways but were less reliable in heavy traffic. The steering wheel controls were unnecessarily complicated, and the Aviator's safety ratings were not available for the Grand Touring model, though the standard Aviator received high marks.