2022 Lincoln Navigator vs 2023 Acura RDX

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator underwent subtle styling changes, including new headlights, taillights, and wheel designs, with a restyled front end. The updated Lincoln Embrace nighttime welcome illumination sequence added a touch of elegance. However, the new Audi-esque grille, reminiscent of a 2006 Audi A4, was less elegant than intended. Despite this, the Navigator's interior continued to impress with quality materials and a mid-century modern design, featuring the Constellation instrumentation and infotainment display theme. The new Sync 4 infotainment system with a larger 13.2-inch touchscreen display kept the Navigator competitive in the screen size race.

The 2023 Acura RDX boasted a sharp, angular style, with a signature Acura grille that seemed to be showing its age. The sleek wraparound headlights and deep creases in the bodywork gave it a sporty look. The side featured a distinctive character line, while the rear was more conventional. Inside, the RDX had a vertical cockpit layout, with a centre stack of controls flowing into the centre console. The 10.2-inch infotainment display and digital centre display with analog gauges emphasized Acura's focus on performance. The interior, while not as modern as some rivals, offered a familiar feel for those averse to new glass cockpits.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. It featured a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive in Canada. The Navigator's towing capacity ranged from 3,674 to 3,765 kilograms, depending on the configuration. The adaptive-damping suspension with Road Preview technology and a new electronic brake booster improved ride quality and braking response. The Navigator handled snow and mud effortlessly, thanks to its 24.5 cm ground clearance and appropriate driving modes. Fuel consumption was rated at 13.2 L/100 km in combined driving, with the test vehicle averaging 12.6 L/100 km.

The 2023 Acura RDX was equipped with a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. It came with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive, known as "super-handling all-wheel drive" or "SH-AWD." The RDX accelerated to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds, with immediate throttle response and a pleasing engine and exhaust sound. The transmission provided smooth gear changes, and the brake pedal offered reassuring firmness. The RDX's handling inspired confidence, with well-managed body roll and abundant traction. The adaptive dampers on the Platinum Elite A-Spec trim ensured a comfortable ride, even on rough roads.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator offered exceptionally comfortable heated, ventilated, and available massaging front seats with 30-way power adjustments. The second-row captain's chairs were also heated, ventilated, and massaging, providing a comfortable ride. The third-row seat was spacious and supportive, thanks to 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 a maximum of 2,925 litres with the second row collapsed. The long-wheelbase Navigator L offered even more cargo space.

The 2023 Acura RDX provided ample space in the front seats, with additional power adjustments for side bolsters and thigh extension in the top trim. The rear seats accommodated average-sized adults comfortably, though taller passengers might find headroom limited. The panoramic sunroof enhanced the cabin's sense of space. The RDX offered 835 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 1,668 litres with the rear seats folded. The deep bin under the cargo floor featured a centre drain plug for added utility. Front passengers had various storage options, though the centre stack's design could be more space-efficient.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator featured a new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen display, offering easy access to navigation and music details. The system supported Bluetooth, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay, with a user-friendly interface. The voice recognition system was improved but not perfect. 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 2023 Acura RDX's infotainment system used a touchpad controller, which was challenging to use while driving. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity improved the experience, allowing for easier navigation. The system featured sharp graphics, quick responses, and logically arranged menus. Standard features included Bluetooth, SiriusXM satellite radio, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and remote monitoring via the Acuralink app. The 16-speaker ELS Studio premium audio system provided excellent sound quality.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced new driver assistance systems, including Intersection Assist, Active Park Assist 2.0, and ActiveGlide. A surround-view camera system was also standard. ActiveGlide, a semi-autonomous hands-free driving technology, worked well on approved highways but required driver attention. The system performed well within its limits, but drivers needed to remain vigilant.

The 2023 Acura RDX received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and more. The Platinum Elite A-Spec package added a surround-view camera system and a head-up display. The adaptive cruise control was smooth, but the lane-keep assist could be improved for gentle curves.