2022 Lincoln Navigator vs 2021 Volkswagen ID.4

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 was crafted as a distinct electric vehicle, diverging from the traditional styling of Volkswagen's gasoline models. It showcased a streamlined profile with wheels pushed to the corners, setting it apart from the more rugged appearance of the Tiguan and Atlas crossovers. The ID.4 was part of Volkswagen's EV-specific MEB platform, following the ID.3 hatchback in Europe. While it offered a unique design, it didn't quite resemble an SUV, a common trait among many EV crossovers. Inside, the ID.4 combined Volkswagen's minimalist design with a tech-forward aesthetic, featuring piano black and matte plastic elements. The interior was equipped with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and cloth seats, with leatherette upholstery available in the Statement Package.

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 with Lincoln's star and chrome detailing. Despite this, the Navigator maintained its elegance and presence. Inside, it dazzled with quality materials and a mid-century modern design, highlighted by Lincoln's Constellation instrumentation and infotainment display theme. The Navigator's interior was further enhanced by a new Sync 4 infotainment system with a larger 13.2-inch touchscreen display. The SUV continued to offer standard and long-wheelbase styles, with the Reserve trim level available in Canada. The Navigator's interior was spacious and comfortable, with heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, and a roomy third-row seat.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 offered two powertrain configurations. The base rear-wheel drive (RWD) version featured a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque, powered by an 82-kilowatt-hour battery pack. An all-wheel-drive (AWD) version added a second electric motor for a total output of 295 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. The ID.4 was tuned for comfort, with a smooth ride over bumps and potholes, but it wasn't particularly sporty. It lacked aggressive regenerative braking, relying on friction brakes for a more familiar driving experience.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator retained its twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. It featured a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive in Canada. The Navigator's towing capacity ranged from 3,674 to 3,765 kilograms, depending on the configuration. The SUV's adaptive-damping suspension, equipped with Road Preview, provided a smooth ride, even on imperfect pavement. The Navigator's electronic brake booster improved brake pedal feel and response. It handled snow and mud with ease, thanks to its four-wheel drive and ground clearance of approximately 24.5 centimetres. Fuel consumption was rated at 13.2 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 offered more front and rear headroom than competitor EVs, though legroom was average for the segment. It provided 858 litres of cargo space with the rear seats in place and 1,818 litres with the seats folded. The ID.4 lacked a "frunk" for extra cargo storage, but its interior felt spacious, with good forward visibility. However, rearward visibility was hindered by thick rear pillars and a small back window. The ID.4 featured a unique twist-grip gear selector and standard heated steering wheel and front seats.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator's interior was exceptionally comfortable, with heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats. The second-row captain's chairs were also heated, ventilated, and massaging, providing a luxurious experience. The third-row seat offered roomy accommodations. The Navigator's cargo space was generous, with 546 litres behind the third-row seat, 1,627 litres with the third row folded, and 2,925 litres with the second row collapsed. The long-wheelbase Navigator L offered even more cargo space.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 featured a standard 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 5.3-inch display screen served as the instrument cluster, and haptic touchpads replaced traditional switchgear. While the setup looked modern, it was challenging to use due to the lack of tactile feedback. The ID.4 included a natural-language voice-control system and ID.Light, a light strip that communicated information to the driver. The touchscreen was well-positioned, with smart graphics and easy-to-navigate menus.

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, and allowed users to save settings to a user profile. Sync 4's voice recognition system was improved, though not perfect. The Navigator also featured an upgraded Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV, providing access to streaming services. The optional 28-speaker Revel 3D audio system delivered exceptional sound quality.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA for RWD versions. It offered a range of driver aids, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. Travel Assist and Emergency Assist were new standard features for 2021, enhancing highway driving and safety.

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. ActiveGlide, Lincoln's semi-autonomous, hands-free driving technology, was approved for use on over 200,000 kilometres of North American roads. It performed well within its operational limits, though drivers needed to remain attentive.