2022 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2022 Lincoln Navigator

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse was a practical choice for those who needed an SUV but didn't want to break the bank on a larger, less fuel-efficient vehicle. It offered a range of trims, starting with the base LS at $39,498 in Canada, with all-wheel drive as standard. The Traverse underwent a light restyle for 2022, featuring new headlights, taillights, and grille designs, along with updated colour choices. The RS trim, which we tested, showcased blacked-out trim and 20-inch wheels, making it one of the more appealing vehicles in its segment. Inside, the Traverse RS boasted black leather upholstery with contrast stitching, though the use of hard plastics on upper door panels was a downside. The interior layout was simple and logical, with easy-to-use controls for stereo and climate functions.

In contrast, the 2022 Lincoln Navigator received subtle styling updates, including new headlights, taillights, and a restyled front end. However, the new grille design was less elegant than before. 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 a 13.2-inch touchscreen was a significant upgrade, offering ample display space. The Navigator continued to offer standard and long-wheelbase styles, with the Reserve trim starting at $107,500 in Canada. Our test vehicle, a U.S.-spec Black Label, featured a unique Central Park theme with a green interior. The Navigator's second-row captain's chairs were heated, ventilated, and massaging, providing a luxurious experience for passengers.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse was powered by a 3.6-litre V6 engine, producing 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. It had a tow rating of 2,268 kilograms and offered various driving modes, including Tow/Haul, Snow, and Off-Road. The V6 engine provided adequate power for the Traverse's size, and the SUV returned a fuel economy of 11.3 L/100 km during testing. The Traverse offered a firm yet compliant ride, though it was prone to scraping the front air dam on larger road anomalies. On the highway, it was a capable cruiser, albeit with more road and wind noise than desired. In mountainous terrain, the Traverse felt athletic, with its V6 drivetrain, steering, and brakes performing well. However, the RS trim's all-season tires were not ideal for spirited driving.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator featured a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque, mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. It had a towing capacity of up to 3,765 kilograms with the maximum tow package. The Navigator's adaptive-damping suspension, updated with Road Preview, provided a smooth ride, even on imperfect pavement. The new electronic brake booster improved brake pedal feel and response. The Navigator handled snow and mud with ease, thanks to its 4WD system and 24.5 centimetres of ground clearance. Fuel consumption was rated at 13.2 L/100 km, with the SUV achieving 12.6 L/100 km during testing. The Navigator's adaptive suspension and 22-inch wheels provided excellent grip and ride comfort on mountain roads.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse offered seating for seven in RS, Premier, and High Country trims, with captain's chairs in the second row. The RS trim featured power-adjustable and heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and triple-zone climate control. The second-row Smart Slide function and long rear doors made accessing the third row easier. The Traverse's interior provided generous legroom and headroom, though the captain's chairs lacked leg support. Cargo space was abundant, with 651 litres behind the third row, 1,637 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 2,781 litres. The Traverse also had hidden storage compartments for added convenience.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator continued to offer exceptionally comfortable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massaging functions. The second-row captain's chairs were also heated, ventilated, and massaging, providing a luxurious experience. The third-row seat was 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. The long-wheelbase Navigator L provided even more cargo capacity.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system in the LS model, while other trims received an 8-inch display. The system offered Bluetooth connectivity for two smartphones, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The RS trim featured a Bose premium sound system, though it was not particularly impressive. The Traverse's voice recognition system was excellent, quickly responding to commands. Visibility was good, with a digital rearview mirror and surround-view camera available for added convenience.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator received a significant upgrade with the new Sync 4 infotainment system and a 13.2-inch touchscreen display. The system supported Bluetooth, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay, with a user-friendly interface. The voice recognition system was improved, though not perfect. The Navigator's rear-seat entertainment system was enhanced with Amazon Fire TV, providing access to popular streaming services. The optional 28-speaker Revel 3D audio system delivered sensational sound quality.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came standard with Chevy Safety Assist, which included forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and automatic high-beam headlights. A new Safety Package was optional for the LS trim, adding rear parking assist sensors, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims offered adaptive cruise control and a rear pedestrian alert system. The Traverse received Good ratings from the IIHS in most categories but was rated Poor for its LED headlights and seatbelt reminders.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced new driver assistance systems, including Intersection Assist, Active Park Assist 2.0, and ActiveGlide. The surround-view camera system was newly standard. ActiveGlide, Lincoln's semi-autonomous driving technology, allowed for hands-free driving on approved highways. The system performed well within its operational limits, though drivers needed to remain attentive. These systems represented steps toward fully autonomous driving but required drivers to remain vigilant.