2019 Honda CR-V vs 2020 Lincoln Navigator

The 2019 Honda CR-V was a versatile and appealing choice for many consumers, offering four distinct trim levels: LX, EX, EX-L, and Touring. The base model came with standard front-wheel drive, with an option for all-wheel drive, while the latter was standard on all other trims in Canada. Prices ranged from $27,690 to $39,090, excluding destination charges. The CR-V's design was generally well-received, with its rear styling considered upscale, although the front-end design was less popular. Inside, the CR-V boasted quality materials and a well-thought-out layout, providing a sense of value for money despite the presence of hard plastics.

In contrast, the 2020 Lincoln Navigator stood out with its luxurious design, featuring chrome and brightwork that differentiated it from its Ford Expedition counterpart. The Navigator's unique styling included a lattice-type grille, illuminated Lincoln star, and full-width taillights. In Canada, it was available in the Reserve trim with a choice of standard or long-wheelbase body styles, both equipped with four-wheel drive. The interior was lavish, with the Luxury Package offering 30-way Perfect Position front seats and a dashboard with mid-century modern styling. The Navigator's digital instrumentation and panoramic glass roof added to its luxurious feel, making it a convincing flagship SUV.

The 2019 Honda CR-V in Canada was equipped with a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 190 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 179 lb-ft of torque between 2,000 and 5,000 rpm. Paired with a continuously variable transmission, it offered a choice between front-wheel and all-wheel drive. The engine was responsive and provided satisfying acceleration, though it had some issues in cold weather and with battery reliability. The CR-V averaged 10.2 litres per 100 kilometres during testing, slightly above the expected 8.0 L/100 km. Its Real Time AWD system provided extra traction in slippery conditions, and the SUV's driving dynamics were impressive, with a MacPherson strut front and multi-link double wishbone rear suspension.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator featured a powerful twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. A 10-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive were standard, with multiple drive modes to tailor the powertrain to various conditions. The Navigator's towing capacity reached 3,764 kilograms, aided by Pro Trailer Backup Assist. The SUV averaged 14.3 litres per 100 kilometres, slightly above the expected 13.4 L/100 km. Despite its size, the Navigator's adaptive damping suspension and body motion control provided a hint of athleticism, though it was best suited for open roads.

The 2019 Honda CR-V offered ample space for families, though the lack of a height adjuster for the front passenger seat was a drawback. The driver enjoyed a 12-way power adjustable seat, and heated front seats were standard in Canada. The rear seats provided plenty of space for children and adults, with air vents and USB ports for added comfort. The CR-V's cargo space was generous, with 1,110 litres behind the back seat and 2,146 litres with the rear seats folded, nearly matching larger SUVs like the Honda Passport.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator required a climb to enter, but once inside, it offered exceptional comfort and space. The 30-way Perfect Position front seats were highly adjustable, and the second row could be configured with a bench or captain's chairs. The third row provided class-leading legroom and thigh support. Cargo volumes were impressive, with the standard model offering up to 2,928 litres and the longer Navigator L providing up to 3,407 litres. The Navigator's interior was designed for maximum comfort and convenience, making it a top choice for luxury SUV buyers.

The 2019 Honda CR-V featured a range of infotainment and driver-assistance technologies, including a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a rearview camera. Higher trims offered additional features like SiriusXM satellite radio and a premium audio system. However, the infotainment system was criticized for its small screen size and lack of a tuning knob, and the voice recognition system was not user-friendly.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator's Sync 3 infotainment system was less impressive, with slow loading times. However, it offered Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. The "Phone As A Key" technology allowed smartphone integration for keyless entry and start. The 20-speaker Revel Ultima audio system provided an excellent listening experience, and additional technologies included a surround-view camera system and a head-up display.

The 2019 Honda CR-V came with Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced safety features, on all trims except the base LX FWD. This included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. The CR-V received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA, though its headlight performance was rated as Acceptable.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator featured the Lincoln Co-Pilot360 collection of advanced driver assistance systems, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Navigator's safety was further supported by a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, though the IIHS had not tested the 2020 model.