2022 Hyundai Palisade vs 2023 Lincoln Navigator

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade stood as Hyundai's flagship SUV, replacing the Santa Fe XL and showcasing a sophisticated design that set it apart from previous Hyundai models. Its exterior featured distinctive lines, a prominent grille, and expressive LED lighting, creating a striking presence. The interior was equally refined, with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, high-quality materials, and spacious seating for up to eight passengers. The Palisade's fit and finish were near-luxury, making it a worthy flagship for Hyundai.

In contrast, the 2023 Lincoln Navigator maintained its position as Lincoln's largest SUV, offering a luxurious and spacious interior. The Navigator Reserve model featured a monochromatic package with black 22-inch wheels and body-colour trim, giving it a sleek appearance. Inside, the cabin was adorned with high-quality materials, including real wood trim and chrome accents. However, some chrome plastic switchgear detracted from the overall luxury feel. The Navigator's ambient lighting added character, but its ride quality was inconsistent, with a truck-like feel over smaller bumps.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade was powered by a naturally aspirated 3.8-litre V6 engine, producing 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a four-wheel independent suspension, provided a smooth and responsive driving experience. The Palisade's fuel economy was estimated at 12.3 L/100 km in the city, 9.6 on the highway, and 11.1 combined. It could tow up to 2,267 kilograms with trailer brakes, making it a versatile choice for families.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator, on the other hand, featured a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. It came with a 10-speed automatic transmission and a 4WD drivetrain. The Navigator's fuel economy was rated at 13.2 L/100 km combined, but during testing, it averaged 15.0 L/100 km. The SUV offered multiple drive modes, including Excite, which improved performance but reduced fuel efficiency. Despite its adaptive damping suspension, the Navigator's ride quality was inconsistent, and its size posed challenges in urban environments.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade offered a spacious and versatile interior, with comfortable seating for up to eight passengers. The third row provided easy access and ample space, while the second-row captain's chairs added comfort. The Palisade's cargo capacity was impressive, with 509 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,447 litres with all seats folded. The interior featured thoughtful storage solutions and a compact shift-by-wire setup for the gear selector.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator excelled in functionality, with roomy seats in all three rows and an available extended body style for increased cargo space. The Navigator's front seats offered 30-way power adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage functions, though they could be challenging to perfect. The SUV's storage space was generous, with various compartments throughout the cabin. The long-wheelbase Navigator L model provided significantly more cargo space, making it ideal for carrying both passengers and luggage.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade showcased Hyundai's technological prowess with a standard 1920 x 720 colour touchscreen and a premium Harman Kardon audio system on higher trims. The infotainment system included wired Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, and multiple USB ports. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim added a head-up display and Hyundai's Blue Link connected car system, offering remote engine start and vehicle monitoring.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator featured a 12-inch digital instrumentation display, a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and a dual-screen Lincoln Play infotainment system for rear-seat passengers. The Sync 4 system included wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a navigation system, and Alexa Built-in. The Navigator's digital assistant performed well, but the wireless smartphone charger caused overheating issues. The Revel Ultima 3D Audio System provided impressive sound quality, and the Lincoln Way app allowed for digital key functionality.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade boasted a comprehensive suite of safety features, including seven airbags, anti-lock braking, electronic stability control, and advanced driver assistance systems like blind-spot collision avoidance and adaptive cruise control. It earned top safety ratings, including a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator was equipped with the Co-Pilot360 suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot monitoring. The BlueCruise hands-free driving assist system was available, but it struggled with certain driving conditions. The Navigator received a five-star side-impact protection rating and a four-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA.