2022 Lincoln Navigator vs 2021 Honda Odyssey

The 2021 Honda Odyssey presented a familiar aesthetic with subtle updates to modernize its appearance. The new grille and front bumper, along with standard LED headlights across all trims, gave it a refreshed look. The addition of a gloss black spear with a chrome insert across the taillights and a new 19-inch wheel design for the Touring trim added a touch of sophistication. The interior saw improvements with perforated leather upholstery and ambient lighting, enhancing its upscale feel. The Odyssey's design tweaks aimed to reduce brightwork, making it a more refined choice for minivan buyers.

In contrast, the 2022 Lincoln Navigator underwent subtle styling changes, including new headlights, taillights, and wheel designs. The front end received a restyle, featuring an Audi-esque grille that some felt lacked the elegance of its predecessor. Despite this, the Navigator's updates were largely successful, with the interior continuing to impress with quality materials and a mid-century modern design. The introduction of Lincoln's Constellation instrumentation and infotainment display theme added a unique touch, while the new Sync 4 infotainment system with a larger 13.2-inch touchscreen display kept it competitive in the luxury SUV market.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, delivering 280 horsepower to the front wheels. This combination provided smooth and effortless power, with driving modes including Normal, Sport, Eco, and Snow. The Odyssey's fuel efficiency was rated at 10.6 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, and it averaged 10.8 L/100 km during testing. However, the lack of all-wheel drive put it at a disadvantage in snowy conditions. The Odyssey's ride and handling were enjoyable, with well-weighted steering and firm yet comfortable suspension. The brakes, though improved, showed signs of fade under heavy use.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator featured a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. With a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive in Canada, the Navigator offered robust performance. Its towing capacity ranged from 3,674 to 3,765 kilograms, depending on configuration. The adaptive-damping suspension with Road Preview technology enhanced ride comfort, while the new electronic brake booster improved brake feel. The Navigator excelled in snowy and muddy conditions, thanks to its four-wheel drive and ample ground clearance. Fuel consumption was rated at 13.2 litres per 100 kilometres, with an observed average of 12.6 L/100 km during testing.

Inside the 2021 Honda Odyssey, drivers enjoyed legible instrumentation, logical controls, and ample storage. The 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat was comfortable, with heated front seats and mirrors standard in Canada. The Odyssey's Magic Slide second-row seat layout offered versatile seating configurations, while the third-row seats accommodated adults and children comfortably. Cargo space was generous, with 929 litres behind the third row and a maximum of 3,984 litres with seats removed. However, removing the second-row seats was cumbersome, despite improvements in seat folding.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator boasted exceptionally comfortable front seats with 30-way power adjustments, heating, ventilation, and available massaging functions. The second-row captain's chairs offered similar comfort, with the added benefit of a new rear-seat entertainment system. The third-row seats provided ample space and support, maintaining the Navigator's reputation for comfort. Cargo capacity was substantial, with 546 litres behind the third row and a maximum of 2,925 litres with seats folded. The long-wheelbase Navigator L offered even more space, making it ideal for larger families and cargo needs.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. Higher trims added navigation, a CabinWatch interior camera, and a CabinTalk PA system. The Touring trim included an 11-speaker premium audio system and wireless smartphone charging. However, the lack of a tuning knob and subpar voice recognition were drawbacks. The rear-seat entertainment system included a 10.2-inch screen and streaming apps, though it lacked a touchscreen interface.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced a new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen display. The system supported Bluetooth, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay, with user-friendly controls and voice recognition. The upgraded Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system featured Amazon Fire TV, providing access to popular streaming services. The optional 28-speaker Revel 3D audio system delivered exceptional sound quality, enhancing the overall entertainment experience.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey improved its safety features with standard Honda Sensing, which included adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, pedestrian braking, and road-sign recognition. The Odyssey earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, though the adaptive cruise control's braking could be smoother.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced new driver assistance systems, including Intersection Assist, Active Park Assist 2.0, and ActiveGlide. The surround-view camera system became standard, enhancing safety. ActiveGlide offered semi-autonomous, hands-free driving on approved highways, though drivers needed to remain attentive. The system performed well within its limits, but complete trust in its capabilities was not yet warranted.