2022 Lincoln Navigator vs 2022 Kia Sorento

The 2022 Kia Sorento, particularly in the X-Line trim, presented a stylish and rugged appearance. This midsize SUV was enhanced with rugged bumpers, matte-finish wheels, black lower body cladding, and robust roof rails, which added a sense of purpose to its already attractive design. In the U.S., the X-Line was a package applied to the top trim, while in Canada, it was a standalone mid-grade package. All-wheel drive was standard across all Sorento models in Canada, including the hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions, with pricing ranging from $34,595 to $48,085 for the gas-only powertrain, and starting from $36,695 for the hybrid and $44,995 for the plug-in hybrid, excluding a $1,900 destination charge.

Inside, the Sorento exuded quality, with leather upholstery and simulated wood trim on the dashboard. The cabin reflected rock-solid construction, with nothing appearing flimsy. Kia's attention to design detail was evident even in the most affordable LX+ model. The Sorento's interior style and traditional cable-operated transmission shifter did not compromise practical storage space. Buyers of the Sorento likely felt they got an excellent deal, even at sticker price.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator underwent subtle styling changes, including new headlights, taillights, and wheel designs. The front end was restyled, featuring an Audi-esque grille with the Lincoln star and chrome detailing, which some felt reduced its elegance and presence. Despite this, the Navigator's updates were largely successful. 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 display was a significant upgrade, offering ample display acreage.

The Navigator continued in standard and long-wheelbase styles, with Reserve as the sole trim level in Canada, starting at $107,500, excluding a $2,395 destination charge. The U.S.-spec Navigator Black Label in the Central Park theme featured a unique Manhattan Green exterior and matching interior, with second-row heated, ventilated, and massaging captain's chairs. The Navigator's updates, including the adaptive-damping suspension with Road Preview and a new electronic brake booster, enhanced its performance and comfort.

The 2022 Kia Sorento's standard engine was a 191-horsepower 2.5-litre four-cylinder, which took nearly 9.5 seconds to accelerate the SUV to 60 mph. This sluggish performance led to recommendations for the Sorento's other engine options, including a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder, a turbocharged hybrid powertrain, and a turbocharged plug-in hybrid powertrain. The turbo 2.5-litre engine generated 281 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque, offering a more satisfying driving experience. With this engine, Kia replaced the standard 8-speed automatic transmission with an eight-speed dual-clutch automated manual transmission, allowing the Sorento to reach 60 mph in about 7.5 seconds. The Sorento's suspension provided an excellent blend of compliance and composure, making it feel more like a sports sedan than an SUV. Fuel consumption was higher than expected, averaging 11.5 L/100 km during testing.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator retained its twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. The Navigator's towing capacity ranged from 3,674 to 3,765 kg, depending on wheelbase and drivetrain selections. The adaptive-damping suspension with Road Preview improved ride quality, and the new electronic brake booster enhanced brake pedal feel and response. The Navigator's 4WD system, combined with 24.5 cm of ground clearance, allowed it to handle snow and mud with ease. Fuel consumption was rated at 13.2 L/100 km in combined driving, with the SUV averaging 12.6 L/100 km during testing.

The 2022 Kia Sorento's interior felt luxurious, with Burgundy leather and heated and ventilated front seats. Second-row captain's chairs were standard from the EX trim, with heated options in the EX+ and SX. The third-row seat was less comfortable, with limited legroom and head restraints flush against the rear window. Cargo space was expandable from 357 litres to 1,274 litres with the third-row seat folded, and up to 2,139 litres with the second-row seats down. The Sorento's "smart" power tailgate added convenience.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator offered exceptionally comfortable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massaging functions. The second-row captain's chairs were also heated, ventilated, and massaging, with the updated Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system providing access to streaming services. The third-row seat was roomy and supportive, benefiting from the independent rear suspension design. The Navigator's cargo space was generous, with 546 litres behind the third row, 1,627 litres with the third row folded, and 2,925 litres with the second row collapsed. The long-wheelbase Navigator L offered even more cargo capacity.

The 2022 Kia Sorento featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system on lower trims, while higher trims received a 10.25-inch display with navigation, satellite radio, and smartphone integration. The infotainment system was intuitive, though the font style and graphics might not appeal to everyone. The Sorento SX included a 12-speaker Bose premium surround-sound system, and a wireless phone charger was standard from the LX Premium trim.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator's new Sync 4 infotainment system featured a 13.2-inch touchscreen display, offering a user-friendly interface with Bluetooth, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. The system allowed for extensive customization, with about 80 individual vehicle settings. The voice recognition system was improved, though not perfect. The Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system, now with Amazon Fire TV, provided access to streaming services. The optional 28-speaker Revel 3D audio system delivered exceptional sound quality.

The 2022 Kia Sorento offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including a rear-seat reminder system, Junction Assist, and a Blind View Monitor system. Highway Driving Assist provided Level 2 semi-autonomous driving capabilities. The Sorento received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, with a four-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA.

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 provided semi-autonomous, hands-free driving on approved highways. The system performed well within its operational limits, though drivers were required to remain attentive.