2023 Honda CR-V vs 2022 Lincoln Navigator

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 diminished the Navigator's elegance. Despite this, the updates were generally 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 adopted a cleaner, more conservative look with a blunt nose, long hood, and stretched wheelbase. The EX-L trim featured 18-inch alloy wheels and leather-wrapped seats, steering wheel, and shift knob. The interior, inspired by the latest Civic, exuded quality and simplicity, with a larger touchscreen infotainment system and added features like a power-adjustable front passenger seat and power rear liftgate. The CR-V's styling was less distinctive than its predecessor, but its conservative design was expected to age well.

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 enhanced the driving experience. Fuel consumption was rated at 13.2 litres per 100 kilometres, with an observed average of 12.6 L/100 km during testing.

The 2023 Honda CR-V retained its 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. It used a continuously variable transmission (CVT) to power the front or all four wheels. While the CVT's droning noise was a drawback, the CR-V excelled in ride and handling, with a refined suspension, steering, and brakes. Fuel efficiency was impressive, with a combined rating of 8.4 litres per 100 kilometres and an observed average of 8.1 L/100 km on a mountainous route.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator offered exceptional comfort with its heated, ventilated, and available massaging 30-way power-adjustable front seats. The second-row captain's chairs were also heated, ventilated, and massaging, providing a luxurious experience. The third-row seat was spacious and comfortable, thanks to the independent rear suspension. 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 claimed to be the roomiest yet, with a comfortable and supportive interior. The second row felt more spacious than the first, offering ample legroom and adjustable seatback recline positions. Storage options were plentiful, with a large centre armrest bin and various trays and bins throughout the cabin. The cargo area provided 1,113 litres of space with the rear load floor panel in its lowest position, expanding to 2,166 litres with the back seat folded.

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 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 2023 Honda CR-V came with a 7-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with larger displays and additional features on higher trims. The EX-L trim offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and an upgraded eight-speaker sound system. While the technology was improved over the previous generation, it did not surpass competitors in terms of features or innovation.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced new driver assistance systems, including Intersection Assist, Active Park Assist 2.0, and ActiveGlide, a semi-autonomous hands-free driving technology. A surround-view camera system was also standard. ActiveGlide performed well within its operational limits, but drivers were advised to remain attentive.

The 2023 Honda CR-V featured the Honda Sensing suite of driver assist systems, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. New features included a seatbelt reminder system, rear-seat reminder system, and traffic sign recognition. The CR-V was built with Honda's Advanced Compatibility Engineering body structure and received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.