2022 Kia Sportage vs 2022 Lincoln Navigator

The 2022 Kia Sportage presented a mixed bag in terms of design. While Kia's signature tiger-nose grille was a hit on models like the Stinger and Sorento, it seemed out of place on the Sportage, resembling a Halloween party fake mustache. Despite this, the Sportage excelled in other design aspects, with its four-dot running light signature reminiscent of the Porsche Macan and a Volkswagen-style symmetry at the rear. The SX trim's 19-inch alloy wheels added to its stylish and planted stance. Inside, the Sportage boasted a Germanic design with a black dashboard, polished metallic accents, and user-friendly buttons and knobs, contributing to an upscale feel.

In contrast, the 2022 Lincoln Navigator underwent subtle styling changes, including new headlights, taillights, and wheel designs. The front end, however, adopted an Audi-esque grille that some felt lacked the elegance of its predecessor. 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 and the updated Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV added to the luxury experience. The Navigator's interior was spacious, with comfortable seating and ample cargo space, especially in the long-wheelbase configuration.

The 2022 Kia Sportage offered two engine options: a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine producing 181 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque, and a more robust 2.0-litre turbocharged engine in the SX trim, delivering 237 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, and the Dynamax all-wheel-drive system was standard on all trims except the entry-level LX FWD. The Sportage SX provided quick acceleration, with maximum torque available from 1,450 to 3,500 rpm, and a sporty driving experience, although it lacked the refinement of some competitors.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator featured a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. In Canada, the Navigator came standard with four-wheel drive. The SUV boasted impressive towing capacity, ranging from 3,674 to 3,765 kilograms, depending on the configuration. The Navigator's adaptive-damping suspension with Road Preview technology and new electronic brake booster enhanced the driving experience, providing a smooth ride even on imperfect roads. The SUV's fuel consumption was rated at 13.2 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving.

The 2022 Kia Sportage, though compact, offered a surprisingly roomy passenger compartment. The SX trim featured perforated leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, and heated and ventilated front seats. Rear passengers enjoyed generous legroom, air conditioning vents, and a USB charging port. However, the Sportage's cargo space was limited, with a maximum of 1,703 litres when the second-row seats were folded down. The smart liftgate technology provided hands-free access to the cargo area.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator excelled in comfort and space, with 30-way power-adjustable front seats that were heated, ventilated, and available with a massaging function. The second-row captain's chairs offered similar features, and the third-row seat provided ample room. The Navigator's cargo space was generous, with up to 2,925 litres available when the second-row seats were folded. The long-wheelbase Navigator L offered even more cargo capacity, making it ideal for large families or those needing extra space.

The 2022 Kia Sportage came equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The SX trim added UVO Intelligence connected services, satellite radio, wireless smartphone charging, and an 8-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. While the infotainment system was user-friendly, it lacked some advanced features, such as a WiFi hotspot and wireless smartphone mirroring.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator featured a new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen display, offering a modern and intuitive user experience. The system supported Bluetooth, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay, and allowed users to save personalized settings. 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 an exceptional listening experience.

The 2022 Kia Sportage offered a range of safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assistance. The SX trim also included adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability. The Sportage received favourable crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, with the SX trim earning an Acceptable headlight rating, qualifying it for an IIHS Top Safety Pick.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced new driver assistance systems, such as Intersection Assist, Active Park Assist 2.0, and ActiveGlide, a semi-autonomous driving technology. The SUV also came with a surround-view camera system. ActiveGlide allowed for hands-free driving on approved highways, although drivers were required to remain attentive. These systems represented steps toward fully autonomous driving, but drivers were still responsible for monitoring the road.