2023 Lincoln Navigator vs 2022 Cadillac Escalade

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade made a bold statement with its imposing size and distinctive design elements. Its massive grille, LED daytime running lights, and taillights were scaled to match its substantial frame, reminiscent of classic Cadillac tailfins. The front end, with its tall hood and vertical running lights, gave the impression of a diesel locomotive. The Escalade's styling set it apart from other GM full-size SUVs, emphasizing its bulk. The vehicle offered different trim pieces for "sport" and "luxury" models, with the Luxury and Premium Luxury trims featuring bright exterior trim, while the Sport trim had darkened elements. Despite sharing its body-on-frame architecture with other GM SUVs and trucks, the Escalade maintained its luxury appeal, although its interior lacked a cohesive design theme. Leather upholstery, wood trim, and a panoramic sunroof were available, but the interior design didn't match the midcentury-modern-inspired look of the Lincoln Navigator.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator, on the other hand, continued to impress with its luxurious and functional design. Although it hadn't undergone significant updates since its 2018 redesign, the Navigator remained a top choice in Lincoln's lineup. The test vehicle, a triple-black Navigator Reserve model, featured the Monochromatic Package, adding black 22-inch wheels and body-colour trim. The interior, predominantly black with real wood trim and chrome accents, exuded an upscale feel. The ambient lighting added character at night, enhancing the cabin's appeal. While the chrome plastic on some switchgear didn't convey luxury, the overall interior quality was commendable. The Navigator's cabin offered comfort and utility, with power-deploying running boards and 30-way Perfect Position power-adjustable front seats. The second-row captain's chairs provided ample space, and the third-row seat accommodated taller passengers comfortably. The Navigator's cargo space was generous, especially in the long-wheelbase Navigator L model, making it a practical choice for those needing extra room.

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade offered two powertrain options, both shared with other GM SUVs and trucks. The standard 6.2-litre gasoline V8 delivered 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, while the optional Duramax 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six diesel engine produced 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and a standard four-wheel-drive (4WD) drivetrain in Canada. The Escalade's diesel engine impressed with its smooth power delivery and low torque peak, making it suitable for various driving situations. However, the Escalade's ride quality was less than luxurious, with an unsettled feel and vibrations from pavement imperfections. Its towing capacity was slightly lower than the Lincoln Navigator's, with a maximum of 3,629 kilograms (8,000 pounds) for the gasoline engine.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator featured a single powertrain option: a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and a 4WD drivetrain, the Navigator offered a fuel economy rating of 13.2 L/100 km in combined driving. The Navigator's adaptive damping suspension, with Road Preview, aimed to enhance ride quality, but the SUV's ride was less than agreeable, especially with the 22-inch wheels. The Excite driving mode improved the ride by stiffening the suspension and quickening the powertrain's response, but it negatively impacted fuel efficiency. The Navigator's size posed challenges in urban environments, making it feel cumbersome in tight spaces.

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade shared its body shell and chassis with other GM full-size SUVs, resulting in a spacious cabin. It offered the most first-row and third-row legroom among full-size luxury SUVs, although the Lincoln Navigator provided more second-row headroom. The Escalade's cargo capacity was impressive, with 722 litres with all seats in place, 2,064 litres with the third-row seats folded, and 3,426 litres with all rear seats folded. However, the raised centre console limited storage space, and the front seats, while adjustable, lacked the comfort expected in a luxury vehicle.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator excelled in functionality, offering roomy seats in all three rows and a cavernous cargo area. Power-deploying running boards facilitated easy entry and exit, while the 30-way Perfect Position power-adjustable front seats provided comfort for long journeys. The second-row captain's chairs were spacious, and the third-row seat accommodated taller passengers comfortably. The Navigator's storage space was generous, with various trays and compartments throughout the cabin. The long-wheelbase Navigator L model offered even more cargo space, making it ideal for carrying both passengers and luggage.

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade boasted an elaborate infotainment display with a 38-inch curved OLED screen comprising three screens. The 14.2-inch digital instrument cluster, 16.9-inch touchscreen, and 7.2-inch screen provided a visually appealing and functional interface. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot were standard. The Escalade's OLED screens offered excellent resolution for the 360-degree camera system, and the rearview camera mirror eliminated blind spots. However, the infotainment system's carousel format for changing radio stations was awkward, and the rotary controller felt like an afterthought.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator featured a 12-inch digital instrumentation display, a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and an available widescreen head-up display. The Sync 4 infotainment system included Bluetooth, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a navigation system with enhanced voice recognition. The digital assistant performed well, understanding commands accurately. The Navigator's 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D Audio System delivered impressive sound quality. However, the wireless smartphone charger caused the phone to overheat, leading to its discontinuation. The Lincoln Play infotainment system for rear-seat passengers was available but went unused by teenagers in the test vehicle.

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade came equipped with standard driver-assistance technology, including cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard on higher trims. Super Cruise, a sophisticated driver-assist system, was available as an option, offering hands-free driving on pre-mapped highways. However, safety ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) were not available for this model year.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator featured the Co-Pilot360 suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. BlueCruise, a hands-free driving assist system, was available for designated Hands-Free Blue Zones. However, BlueCruise struggled with curves, mixed pavement surfaces, and construction zones, requiring driver intervention. The Navigator received a 5-star side-impact protection rating and a 4-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA.