2022 Acura RDX vs 2021 Lincoln Navigator

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator was a striking departure from its predecessors, shedding its Ford Expedition roots to establish a unique identity. Its elegant and understated design was a feat for a vehicle of its size, featuring simple rectilinear shapes and a few chrome accents that added a touch of class. The Pristine White model, with its monochromatic package, black wheels, and illuminated Lincoln logo, was particularly impressive during winter tests. Inside, the Navigator offered a modern and muted interior with seven colour palettes, including the Slate Gray of the test model. The wood trim, push-button gear selector, and floating centre console with chromed switches contributed to a sophisticated cabin experience. The Perfect Position seats, adjustable in 30 different ways, provided unparalleled comfort, rivaling even the more expensive Land Rover Range Rover.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura RDX featured subtle styling changes inspired by the larger MDX model, with updates to the grille surround, bumpers, and wheel designs. The limited-production PMC Edition stood out with its exclusive Long Beach Blue Pearl paint and Orchid white interior. The RDX lineup included various trims, with the A-Spec Platinum Elite package offering high-quality materials and a quieter interior. Despite some reservations about the new vertical air inlets, the RDX maintained a stylish flair. The interior boasted a sporty driving position, a panoramic sunroof, and a unique control layout, including the True Touchpad Interface infotainment system. While the back seat lacked some comfort, the RDX provided ample cargo space and a power liftgate, making it a practical choice for compact luxury SUV buyers.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a formidable twin-turbo V6 engine, producing 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD in Canada, delivered impressive acceleration and a satisfying engine note. The Navigator's towing capacity was a substantial 3,765 kilograms, although its fuel efficiency was less commendable, averaging 13.8 litres per 100 kilometres. While the Navigator's adaptive dampers were standard, its suspension felt less refined compared to competitors like the Cadillac Escalade. Despite some shortcomings in steering and braking precision, the Navigator excelled in highway refinement and power, with paddle shifters adding a touch of sportiness.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder VTEC engine, generating 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. This engine, combined with a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, provided an engaging driving experience. The RDX's fuel consumption averaged 11.4 litres per 100 kilometres, slightly above its estimated rating. The revised Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) and adaptive-damping suspension enhanced the RDX's ride comfort and responsiveness. The RDX also benefited from improved sound insulation, resulting in a quieter cabin. While not a true performance SUV, the RDX offered enjoyable driving dynamics, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a comfortable and communicative ride.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator offered a spacious interior, accommodating up to eight passengers with its optional bench seating. The boxy design provided ample cargo space, with 546 litres behind the third row, 1,627 litres behind the second, and a total of 2,925 litres. The Navigator Reserve featured heated second-row seats and a three-zone climate system, although it lacked some advanced features found in German competitors. The front seats were exceptionally comfortable, with numerous adjustments and massage programs. Despite its size, the Navigator's large windows and high driving position ensured good visibility, although parking could be challenging.

The 2022 Acura RDX, while a compact SUV, offered sufficient room for four adults and their luggage. The interior featured a sporty driving position and a unique control layout, including the True Touchpad Interface. The standard 12-way power-adjustable and heated front seats provided comfort and support, with available ventilation. The back seat, however, lacked some comfort, prioritizing a flat cargo load floor. The RDX's cargo space was generous, with 835 litres available and additional hidden storage compartments. The power liftgate with hands-free operation added convenience for loading and unloading.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator's technology felt somewhat dated, with a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system that lacked the advanced features of competitors. While the system was intuitive and shared its interface with Ford, it couldn't wirelessly connect to Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. The 20-speaker Revel Ultima audio system was good but not exceptional. However, the Navigator offered wireless device charging and a rear entertainment system with Roku media streaming. The drive mode animations on the instrument panel added a touch of elegance, and the simplicity of the system was a welcome relief compared to more complex setups.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, which required some acclimation. The system paired a 10.2-inch display screen with a touchpad controller, offering a direct one-to-one relationship between touchpad and screen. While the TTI was initially complex, the inclusion of Amazon Alexa Built-in and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity reduced the need for its use. The RDX also offered a range of premium sound systems, with the ELS Studio 3D surround-sound audio system providing an impressive audio experience. The addition of a head-up display in the A-Spec Platinum Elite trim further enhanced the RDX's technology offerings.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator received a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, with four stars for rollover resistance. While the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety had not rated the Navigator, it offered optional inflatable rear seat belts for added safety. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and auto high beams. Adaptive cruise control was optional, although it lacked the advanced self-steering capabilities of some competitors.

The 2022 Acura RDX earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, thanks to structural upgrades and new safety features. The RDX included a rear seatbelt reminder system and the AcuraWatch suite of driver-assist technologies, which added features like forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. While the adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist systems were improved, they still fell short of the sophistication found in some rivals. The RDX received a five-star overall crash-test rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, with four-star frontal-impact and rollover resistance ratings.