2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2022 Lincoln Navigator

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC was a testament to the brand's commitment to a timeless aesthetic, characterized by soft curves and rounded edges. While it maintained a modern aggression with its menacing LED headlights, it avoided the overly sharp and aggressive styling seen in some competitors. The GLC's long hood and wide grille gave it a dramatic stance, reminiscent of a raised C-Class or E-Class sedan, emphasizing its car-like characteristics. Inside, the GLC's cabin was an automotive masterpiece, with flowing lines and a minimalist approach that elevated the interior to an art form. The GLC was available in both conventional SUV and crossover "coupe" body styles, with the latter sacrificing some cargo space for a sharper look.

In contrast, the 2022 Lincoln Navigator underwent subtle styling changes, including new headlights, taillights, and wheel designs. However, the restyled front end, with its Audi-esque grille, was a rare misstep, lacking the elegance and presence of its predecessor. 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 its larger 13.2-inch touchscreen, brought the Navigator up to date with its competitors. The Navigator continued to offer standard and long-wheelbase styles, with the Reserve trim level being the sole option in Canada.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 came equipped with a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 255 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. This power was delivered through a nine-speed automatic transmission to the 4MATIC all-wheel drive system. The GLC offered a range of drive modes, including Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+, allowing drivers to tailor the driving experience to their preferences. While the GLC 300 provided ample power for most situations, those seeking more performance could opt for the AMG GLC 43 with a twin-turbocharged V6 producing 385 horsepower or the AMG GLC 63 S with a twin-turbo V8 delivering 503 horsepower.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator retained its twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, generating a robust 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive in Canada, the Navigator offered impressive towing capacity, ranging from 3,674 to 3,765 kilograms, depending on configuration. The Navigator's adaptive-damping suspension, featuring Road Preview technology, ensured a smooth ride by preparing for road imperfections in advance. The new electronic brake booster improved brake pedal feel and response, addressing previous concerns. Despite its size and weight, the Navigator handled various road conditions with ease, thanks to its four-wheel drive and ample ground clearance.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC offered 1,600 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded in the conventional SUV format, while the GLC Coupe's fastback profile reduced this to 1,400 litres. With the rear seats up, the GLC provided 550 litres of cargo space, compared to the Coupe's 500 litres. The GLC's interior featured a well-designed centre console, deep door pockets, and retractable cupholders, making efficient use of space. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed adequate legroom and headroom, although the Coupe's low roofline compromised headroom slightly.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator continued to impress with its spacious and comfortable interior. The front seats were heated, ventilated, and offered 30-way power adjustments, ensuring exceptional comfort. The second-row captain's chairs, with available massaging, heating, and ventilation, provided a luxurious experience. The third-row seat remained roomy and supportive, thanks to the independent rear suspension design. The Navigator offered generous storage and cargo space, with 546 litres behind the third row, 1,627 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 2,925 litres with the second row collapsed. The long-wheelbase Navigator L increased these figures significantly.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC featured the MBUX infotainment system with a 10.25-inch touchscreen, centre console touch controller, and advanced voice-control system. The system was intuitive, offering both touch and controller options for navigating menus. The steering wheel's touch-sensitive pads allowed customization of the digital instrument panel and infotainment screen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were included, although switching between the GLC's radio and smartphone apps required navigating through menus.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator received a significant technology upgrade with the new Sync 4 infotainment system and a 13.2-inch touchscreen display. The system supported Bluetooth, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay, and allowed users to save personalized settings to a user profile. The voice recognition system was improved, though not perfect, and the Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system now included Amazon Fire TV, providing access to popular streaming services. The optional 28-speaker Revel 3D audio system delivered an exceptional listening experience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC offered advanced safety features through the $2,700 Intelligent Drive Package, which included automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, dynamic cruise control, and lane departure warning. Parking sensors and hands-free parking assist were part of the Premium Plus Package, though the sensors were noted to be overly sensitive.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced new driver assistance systems, including Intersection Assist, Active Park Assist 2.0, and ActiveGlide. A surround-view camera system became standard. Intersection Assist could automatically brake to prevent unsafe movements, while Active Park Assist 2.0 allowed the Navigator to park itself. ActiveGlide, Lincoln's semi-autonomous driving technology, enabled hands-free driving on approved highways, though drivers needed to remain attentive. The system performed well within its limits but required human oversight for unexpected situations.