2021 Lincoln Navigator vs 2022 Nissan Pathfinder

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator was a standout in its class, shedding its past resemblance to the Ford Expedition and establishing a unique identity. Its design was marked by elegance and understatement, a challenging feat for a vehicle of its size. The Navigator's exterior featured simple rectilinear shapes, with a body-colour grille, windows, and headlights, complemented by chrome accents. The Pristine White model, with its white-painted grille and black wheels, was particularly striking during winter tests. Inside, the Navigator impressed with its seven colour palettes and attention to finer details, such as the layered wood trim and minimalist digital instrument panel. The materials were of high quality, and the Perfect Position seats offered 30 different adjustments, providing a luxurious experience.

In contrast, the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder embraced a new era of SUV design, drawing inspiration from its predecessors while incorporating modern elements. The front featured a new V-motion grille, flanked by LED headlights and slim daytime running lights. The Pathfinder's side panels and hood gave it a robust appearance, aligning with contemporary trends. The vehicle was slightly wider and taller than its predecessor, offering more legroom. The Pathfinder's design aimed to convey capability and ruggedness, with features like body-colour door handles, chrome badging, and privacy glass. The interior was versatile, with options for eight-passenger seating and semi-aniline leather-appointed seats in higher trims, providing an upscale feel.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a formidable twin-turbo V6 engine, borrowed from the Ford Raptor, delivering an impressive 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive in Canada, provided a sprightly performance for a vehicle of its size. The Navigator's towing capacity was substantial at 3,765 kilograms, although its fuel efficiency was less than stellar, averaging in the double digits. The adaptive dampers offered a decent ride, but the suspension felt rudimentary 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 Nissan Pathfinder retained its 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. While not introducing alternative fuel options, the Pathfinder's engine was paired with a new 9-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth gear transitions. Standard all-wheel drive in Canada, along with hill descent control and seven drive modes, enhanced its versatility. The Pathfinder's suspension provided a stable ride, absorbing road imperfections effectively. Its steering was reasonably connected, and the tight turning radius made it easy to manoeuvre in urban and off-road settings. With a towing capacity of 2,720 kilograms, the Pathfinder was equipped with stabilizing trailer sway control technology, ensuring stability during towing.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator offered a spacious interior, akin to a small bedroom, accommodating six adults comfortably. While technically a seven-passenger SUV, the third row's middle seat was best suited for children. The boxy shape contributed to generous 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 rear 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, providing a luxurious experience. However, parking the Navigator was challenging due to its size, despite the assistance of 360-degree cameras.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder prioritized interior comfort and flexibility, with improved insulation reducing road noise. The design focused on accommodating families, with features like wide-opening doors, optional second-row captain's chairs, and the ability to install multiple car seats. The EZ Flex Latch and Glide technology facilitated easy access to the third row, while the removable second-row centre console added convenience. The Pathfinder offered ample cargo space, with 470 litres behind the third row, 1,274 litres with the second row up, and 2,421 litres with both rows folded flat. The front and second-row seats provided comfort on long trips, with heated and ventilated options available in higher trims. Tri-zone automatic climate control and numerous cup holders enhanced the overall experience.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator featured a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which, while functional, felt outdated compared to newer models. The system included Bluetooth and SiriusXM satellite radio but lacked wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 20-speaker Revel Ultima audio system was good but not exceptional. The software was intuitive, sharing its interface with Ford models, and voice recognition was fast and accurate. However, the Navigator lacked onboard apps and wireless software updates. It did offer wireless device charging and a rear entertainment system with Roku media streaming, providing some modern conveniences.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder was equipped with a comprehensive suite of technology features, catering to a wide range of needs. Standard features included a six-speaker audio system, 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, and satellite radio. Higher trims offered a 9-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, and a 13-speaker Bose Premium Audio system. The Pathfinder Platinum featured a fully digital 12.3-inch instrument panel and a head-up display. The vehicle's technology was user-friendly, providing essential functions without overwhelming drivers.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator received a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, with four stars for rollover resistance in 4WD models. It offered standard safety features like automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and auto high beams. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and inflatable rear seat belts for the second row, enhancing safety for passengers.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder came standard with Nissan Safety Shield 360, a suite of safety features including automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and rear automatic braking. A driver alertness monitor and forward-collision warning were also included. The Pathfinder Platinum added an additional airbag, bringing the total to 11. While crash-test ratings were not available, the comprehensive safety features provided peace of mind for drivers and passengers.