2022 Volkswagen Taos vs 2021 Lincoln Navigator

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator was a departure from its predecessors, which often resembled dressed-up Ford Expeditions. While it shared some structural elements with the Expedition, such as side glass and the general shape of the rear seats, the Navigator distinguished itself with unique features, including a distinct turn signal stalk. Its elegance and understated styling were impressive, especially for a vehicle of its size, riding on 22-inch wheels. The Pristine White model with a monochromatic package, black wheels, and an illuminated Lincoln logo was particularly striking during winter tests. The interior was equally impressive, offering seven colour palettes and a modern, muted design with high-quality materials and tight panel gaps. The Perfect Position seats, adjustable in 30 different ways, added to the luxury feel, making the Navigator a formidable competitor in its class.

In contrast, the 2022 Volkswagen Taos was positioned as a compact SUV, offering a spacious cabin that belied its classification. The Highline 4Motion model featured deeply bolstered seats with ample adjustment options, including heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. The rear seat provided generous legroom and comfort, complemented by rear air conditioning vents. While storage space was plentiful, cargo capacity varied depending on the drive system, with the 4Motion model offering slightly less space due to its independent rear suspension. The Taos also featured a centre pass-through, making it ideal for ski trips. Despite some interior material criticisms, the Taos offered a practical and comfortable environment for its occupants.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a remarkable twin-turbo V6 engine, borrowed from the Ford Raptor, producing 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD in Canada, provided the Navigator with impressive acceleration and a satisfying engine note. Its towing capacity was substantial at 3,765 kilograms, although fuel efficiency was less impressive, averaging 13.8 litres per 100 kilometres combined. 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 delivery, with paddle shifters adding a touch of sportiness.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos featured a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. While the engine provided adequate power, turbo lag and delayed throttle response were noticeable. The seven-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission, paired with the 4Motion AWD system, offered spirited performance but suffered from erratic shifting. The standard 8-speed automatic transmission provided smoother driving but was limited to front-wheel drive. The Taos Highline 4Motion in Sport mode improved drivability, but turbo lag remained an issue. Despite these challenges, the Taos offered a light and responsive driving experience, with commendable road feel and handling. Fuel efficiency was respectable, averaging 8.7 litres per 100 kilometres during testing.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator boasted a spacious interior, accommodating up to eight passengers with its optional bench seat. The boxy design 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 model featured heated rear seats and a three-zone climate system, although some competitors offered more advanced features. The front seats were exceptionally comfortable, with numerous adjustments and massage programs. Visibility was excellent, but parking could be challenging due to the vehicle's size.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos offered a roomy cabin, with the Highline model providing comfortable and adjustable front seats. Rear passengers enjoyed ample legroom and air conditioning vents. Cargo space varied depending on the drive system, with the 4Motion model offering 705 litres behind the back seat and 1,705 litres with the seats folded. The Taos featured a centre pass-through, enhancing its practicality for outdoor activities. While storage space was generally sufficient, the front centre armrest bin was small due to rear air conditioning vents.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator's technology felt somewhat dated compared to newer competitors. Its 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system lacked wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the cameras were low-resolution. However, the software was intuitive, and voice recognition was fast and accurate. The Navigator offered wireless device charging and a rear entertainment system with Roku media streaming. While not as advanced as some rivals, the Navigator's technology was functional and user-friendly.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos came equipped with a Digital Cockpit instrument cluster and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system in the Comfortline and Highline trims. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and wireless smartphone charging. However, the voice-recognition technology in the test vehicle was problematic, and the user experience could be improved. The Taos Highline featured a navigation system and an eight-speaker BeatsAudio premium sound system, although the transition from Fender to BeatsAudio was not seen as a positive development.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator received a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, with four stars for rollover resistance. It offered standard safety features such as 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.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos required additional spending to access popular safety features. Forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot warning, and rear cross-traffic alert were available on the Comfortline grade and up. The Highline grade offered additional features like automatic high beams and rain-sensing wipers. Travel Assist and Emergency Assist were available as part of an extra-cost package. The Taos had not been crash-tested by major safety organizations at the time of review.