2022 Lincoln Navigator vs 2022 Cadillac XT5

The 2022 Cadillac XT5 presented a unique blend of design elements, sitting somewhere between the futuristic angularity of the Lexus NX and the more traditional styling of the Audi Q5, BMW X3, and Mercedes-Benz GLC. It featured Cadillac’s signature design cues, such as a bold grille and distinctive lighting elements, but its compact footprint and tall profile created an awkward aesthetic. The Premium Luxury and Sport trims offered distinct styling cues, with the former showcasing bright chrome for a classic Cadillac look, while the latter embraced darker trim and a mesh grille for a sportier appearance. Inside, the XT5's interior felt luxurious, especially with the optional Platinum Package, but lacked a strong design theme, failing to make a statement like its competitors.

In contrast, the 2022 Lincoln Navigator underwent subtle styling changes, including new headlights, taillights, and wheel designs, along with an updated front end. While the new grille design drew comparisons to an older Audi model, the rest of the updates were well-received. Inside, the Navigator continued to impress with high-quality materials and a mid-century modern design, enhanced by the new Constellation instrumentation and infotainment display theme. The introduction of the Sync 4 infotainment system with a larger 13.2-inch touchscreen display marked a significant upgrade, offering improved usability and functionality.

The 2022 Cadillac XT5 offered two engine options: a standard 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, and an optional 3.6-litre V6 engine delivering 310 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The V6 engine provided ample power for everyday driving, with smooth and quick shifts from the transmission. The optional Platinum Package included a performance suspension with adaptive dampers, which excelled in providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The steering was well-suited to a luxury vehicle, offering nimbleness without requiring constant corrections, and the cabin remained impressively quiet.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator retained its twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing a robust 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Navigator's towing capacity ranged from 3,674 to 3,765 kilograms, depending on the configuration. The adaptive-damping suspension, updated with Road Preview technology, effectively managed road imperfections, while the new electronic brake booster improved brake pedal feel and response. The Navigator handled various driving conditions with ease, including snow and mud, thanks to its four-wheel drive and substantial ground clearance. Fuel consumption was rated at 13.2 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, with the test vehicle averaging 12.6 L/100 km.

The 2022 Cadillac XT5 offered competitive interior space compared to German luxury crossovers, with more front headroom than the Audi Q5 and Mercedes-Benz GLC, but less than the BMW X3. It provided more legroom in both rows, although it trailed the Lincoln Corsair in front legroom. The seats were comfortable but could have benefited from additional padding. Cargo space was generous, with 850 litres available with the rear seats in place and 1,784 litres with them folded. A hands-free power liftgate was available, and the interior featured a small cubbyhole for storage.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator excelled in interior comfort, with heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats that were highly adjustable. The second-row captain’s chairs offered similar features, and the third-row seat provided ample space and support. The Navigator's cargo capacity was substantial, with 546 litres behind the third row and up to 2,925 litres with the second-row seats folded. The long-wheelbase Navigator L offered even more space, making it ideal for larger families or those needing extra cargo room.

The 2022 Cadillac XT5 came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. While usability was improved, the tech offerings were merely adequate compared to competitors. The optional Technology Package added a digital instrument cluster and head-up display. The optional Bose Performance Series 14-speaker system delivered excellent sound quality, enhanced by the quiet cabin.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced the Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen, offering improved functionality and ease of use. The system supported Bluetooth, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay, with a user-friendly interface. The voice recognition system was improved but not flawless. The upgraded Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system included Amazon Fire TV, providing access to popular streaming services. The optional 28-speaker Revel 3D audio system delivered exceptional sound quality.

The 2022 Cadillac XT5 came standard with safety features such as forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. The optional Driver Assist Package added adaptive cruise control and enhanced braking features. The XT5 received top scores in IIHS crash tests and a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, although it had a "Marginal" headlight rating.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced new driver assistance systems, including Intersection Assist, Active Park Assist 2.0, and ActiveGlide. The surround-view camera system became standard. ActiveGlide offered semi-autonomous, hands-free driving on approved highways, although driver attention was still required. The system performed well within its operational limits, but complete trust in the technology was not yet warranted.