2022 Lincoln Navigator vs 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator underwent subtle styling changes, including new headlights, taillights, and wheel designs, with a standard 22-inch design in Canada. The front end was restyled, featuring an Audi-esque grille that some felt lacked the elegance of previous models. Despite this, the Navigator's updates were largely successful, with the interior continuing to impress with quality materials and a mid-century modern design. The new Constellation instrumentation and infotainment display theme added a celestial touch, while the upgraded Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen kept the Navigator competitive in the screen size race.

In contrast, the 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid marked a significant departure from its predecessors with a more assertive and truck-like design. It was longer and wider, with a muscular stance and modernized taillights. The Hybrid Touring trim featured sport elements like black roof rails and mirrors, dual chrome exhaust finishers, and 19-inch wheels. Inside, the CR-V Hybrid followed the design direction of the 2022 Civic and 2023 HR-V, with a premium feel and high-quality materials. The honeycomb grille on the dash and contrast stitching added to its appeal.

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 improved ride quality, while the new electronic brake booster enhanced braking performance. The Navigator's fuel consumption was rated at 13.2 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, with an observed average of 12.6 L/100 km during testing.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid offered a new hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors to produce 204 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque. It featured a continuously variable transmission and four drive modes, including a new Snow mode. The CR-V Hybrid's Real Time AWD system could send up to 50% of engine torque to the rear wheels, and it was equipped with a hill-descent control system. The "B" shifter position allowed for increased regenerative braking, contributing to a fuel consumption rating of 6.4 litres per 100 kilometres combined.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator offered exceptional comfort with its 30-way power-adjustable front seats, while the second-row captain's chairs provided heating, ventilation, and optional massaging functions. The third-row seat was spacious and comfortable, thanks to the independent rear suspension design. The Navigator's cargo space was generous, with 546 litres behind the third row and up to 2,925 litres with the second-row seats folded.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid's larger exterior translated to more interior space, with 1,028 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 2,030 litres with them folded. The Touring model featured a hands-free power tailgate, and wide-opening rear doors improved access. Rear seat legroom increased to 1,042 millimetres, and the reclining rear seats offered eight positions. The CR-V Hybrid's interior included a cubby for smartphones and eight cupholders, with a console providing best-in-class storage.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator's new Sync 4 infotainment system featured a 13.2-inch touchscreen display, offering easy access to navigation and music details. Physical controls for volume and climate functions were retained, and the voice recognition system was improved. The Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system included Amazon Fire TV, providing access to streaming services. The optional 28-speaker Revel 3D audio system delivered exceptional sound quality.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid featured a standard 7-inch touchscreen infotainment display, with a 9-inch screen available on higher trims. It included physical volume and tuning knobs, along with Home and Back buttons. The CR-V Hybrid was well-equipped with USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity, dual-zone climate control, and heated seats. The Touring trim added a wireless charging pad, a 12-speaker Bose audio system, and Honda's smart navigation system.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced new driver assistance systems, including Intersection Assist, Active Park Assist 2.0, and ActiveGlide. The surround-view camera system became standard. ActiveGlide, a semi-autonomous driving technology, allowed for hands-free driving on approved highways, though driver attention was still required.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid came with the Honda Sensing suite of advanced driver-assistance technologies, including improved collision mitigation, road-departure mitigation, and lane-keeping assist systems. New features included traffic jam assist, traffic sign recognition, and low-speed braking control. The CR-V Hybrid earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS and five stars from the NHTSA, with new airbags and a stiffer structure enhancing safety.