2022 Acura RDX vs 2022 Lincoln Navigator

The 2022 Acura RDX underwent subtle styling changes inspired by its larger sibling, the MDX. These updates included modifications to the grille surround and front and rear bumper styling, along with new wheel designs and paint colours. The limited-production RDX PMC Edition returned, featuring exclusive Long Beach Blue Pearl paint and an Orchid white interior. This edition was named after Honda’s Performance Manufacturing Center in Ohio, where the NSX sports car is built. The RDX lineup included various trims, with starting prices ranging from $45,800 to $61,500, excluding a destination charge. The A-Spec Platinum Elite package, priced at $60,375 in Canada, offered high-quality interior materials and a quieter cabin, justifying its cost. Despite some design quirks, the RDX maintained a stylish edge over many competitors.

In contrast, the 2022 Lincoln Navigator received subtle styling updates, including new headlights, taillights, and wheel designs. The front end was restyled, featuring an Audi-esque grille with Lincoln star and chrome detailing, which some felt diminished its elegance. However, the rest of the updates were successful, with the Navigator continuing to impress with its quality materials and mid-century modern design. The interior featured Lincoln’s Constellation instrumentation and infotainment display theme, creating a visually appealing experience. The new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen display enhanced the Navigator’s tech offerings. The Navigator was available in standard and long-wheelbase styles, with the Reserve trim level starting at $107,500, excluding a destination charge. The test vehicle, a U.S.-spec Navigator Black Label, showcased the new Central Park theme with unique interior features.

The 2022 Acura RDX was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder VTEC engine, delivering 272 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 280 pound-feet of torque between 1,600 rpm and 4,500 rpm. This engine provided a spirited driving experience, although fuel consumption averaged 11.4 L/100 km, slightly above the rated 10.3 L/100 km. A 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters was standard, and the Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system was included in Canada. The RDX featured an Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) with distinct driving modes and a re-tuned adaptive-damping suspension for improved comfort and responsiveness. The cabin was quieter than before, thanks to sound control enhancements. While the RDX offered enjoyable driving dynamics, it didn’t qualify for Acura's Type S performance badge, making it less thrilling than some German rivals.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator retained its twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain provided robust performance and a pleasing engine note. Towing capacity ranged from 3,674 to 3,765 kilograms, depending on configuration. The Navigator’s adaptive-damping suspension featured Road Preview technology, enhancing ride comfort. Despite its size, the Navigator handled well, even on imperfect roads. A new electronic brake booster improved brake pedal feel, addressing previous concerns. The Navigator’s 4WD system, combined with its ground clearance, ensured confident performance in various conditions. Fuel consumption was rated at 13.2 L/100 km, with the test vehicle averaging 12.6 L/100 km.

The 2022 Acura RDX, though a compact SUV, offered ample space for four adults and their luggage, with a standard panoramic sunroof enhancing the sense of space. The interior featured a sporty design with a unique control layout, including the True Touchpad Interface infotainment system. The front seats were comfortable and supportive, with available ventilation, while the back seat lacked support for adults. The RDX provided 835 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,668 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator excelled in comfort, with heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats offering 30-way power adjustment. The second-row captain’s chairs were equally comfortable, featuring a new massaging function. The third-row seat provided roomy accommodations, thanks to the independent rear suspension design. The Navigator offered generous storage and cargo space, with the long-wheelbase version providing even more capacity. Cargo volume ranged from 546 litres behind the third row to 2,925 litres with the second-row seats folded.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, which paired a 10.2-inch display with a touchpad controller. While the system offered a direct one-to-one relationship between touchpad and screen, it was considered unnecessarily complicated compared to traditional touchscreens. The RDX included Amazon Alexa Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad. Three premium sound systems were available, with the top-tier ELS Studio 3D surround-sound audio system offering 16 speakers.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced the Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen display, offering improved functionality and ease of use. The system supported Bluetooth, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay, with voice recognition capabilities. The upgraded Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system featured Amazon Fire TV, providing access to popular streaming services. The test vehicle included a 28-speaker Revel 3D audio system, delivering exceptional sound quality.

The 2022 Acura RDX received structural upgrades for improved side-impact safety, maintaining its Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. New safety features included a rear seatbelt reminder system and enhanced AcuraWatch driver-assist systems. The RDX earned a five-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA, with four-star frontal-impact and rollover resistance ratings.

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, a semi-autonomous driving technology, allowed hands-free driving on approved highways. While the system performed well, it required driver attention and did not fully replace human oversight.