2022 Lincoln Navigator vs 2021 Acura RDX

The 2021 Acura RDX, especially with the optional A-Spec Package, was a stylish SUV. Its subtle yet effective design changes conveyed sportiness without overpromising on performance. Acura avoided making the RDX look like an off-roader, focusing instead on daily driving and road-tripping capabilities. The A-Spec Package added sporty interior elements like front sport seats with simulated suede inserts, a sport steering wheel, and red ambient lighting, enhancing the overall sporty feel. However, the gauge cluster with red markings on a brushed silver background was hard to read, except at night.

In contrast, the 2022 Lincoln Navigator featured subtle styling updates, including new headlights, taillights, and a redesigned front end. The new grille, reminiscent of an Audi, was a rare misstep, but the rest of the updates were successful. Inside, the Navigator dazzled with quality materials and a mid-century modern design, featuring Lincoln’s Constellation instrumentation and infotainment display theme. The new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen and a 28-speaker Revel 3D audio system added to the luxurious feel. The Navigator continued to offer exceptional comfort with its 30-way power-adjustable front seats and spacious third-row seating.

The 2021 Acura RDX was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. It featured a 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and an optional Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, which significantly improved handling. The Integrated Dynamics System allowed drivers to choose between Snow, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ driving modes, adjusting powertrain response, steering effort, and suspension firmness. The A-Spec model, with its exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels and performance tires, offered a fun driving experience, though it lacked adaptive dampers and rev-matching for the transmission.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator retained its twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. It offered a 10-speed automatic transmission and a choice between rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive. The Navigator’s towing capacity ranged from 8,100 to 8,700 pounds, depending on the configuration. The new adaptive-damping suspension with Road Preview technology improved ride quality by preparing for road imperfections. The Navigator’s electronic brake booster enhanced brake pedal feel and response. During testing, the Navigator handled various driving conditions, including snow and mud, with ease, thanks to its four-wheel drive and adaptive suspension.

The 2021 Acura RDX, though classified as a compact SUV, offered remarkable passenger and cargo space. The front seats were comfortable and supportive, especially with the A-Spec trim’s 12-way power adjustment, heating, and ventilation. However, rear-seat comfort was compromised due to the need to maximize cargo space. The RDX provided 29.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 58.9 cubic feet with the seats folded. Despite the official numbers, the trunk was accommodating, with additional storage compartments under the cargo floor.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator continued to impress with its exceptionally comfortable 30-way power-adjustable front seats. The second-row captain’s chairs, now with massaging, heating, and ventilation, added to the comfort. The third-row seats remained roomy and supportive, thanks to the independent rear suspension design. The Navigator offered generous storage and cargo space, with 19.3 cubic feet behind the third row, 57.5 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 103.3 cubic feet with the second row collapsed. The long-wheelbase Navigator L provided even more cargo space.

The 2021 Acura RDX featured the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, which used a touch-sensing pad on the center console instead of a touchscreen. While it mirrored the screen’s layout, making it easier to use than Lexus’s similar system, it still required a learning curve and could be distracting. The A-Spec trim included a 16-speaker Acura/ELS Studio 3D premium audio system, which delivered excellent sound quality. The RDX also offered smartphone integration, voice recognition, and Key by Amazon In-Car Delivery.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced the new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen, offering a more modern and user-friendly experience. The system supported Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and its voice recognition was improved, though not perfect. The upgraded Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system, now with Amazon Fire TV, provided access to popular streaming services. The Navigator also featured a new 28-speaker Revel 3D audio system, delivering sensational sound quality.

The 2021 Acura RDX came standard with AcuraWatch, a suite of safety features including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, lane-departure warning, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. However, blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert were only available with the Technology Package. The RDX earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it received four-star ratings for frontal-impact and rollover resistance.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced several new driver assistance systems, including Intersection Assist, Road Edge Detection, Active Park Assist 2.0, and ActiveGlide. The surround-view camera system became standard. ActiveGlide, Lincoln’s semi-autonomous driving technology, allowed for hands-free driving on approved highways but required driver attention. The Navigator’s safety features performed well during testing, though the driver still needed to monitor the vehicle and surroundings.