2023 Kia Telluride 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 received a restyle, featuring an Audi-esque grille with Lincoln's star and chrome detailing, which some felt reduced the SUV's elegance. 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 Kia Telluride received fresh front and rear styling, updated headlights and taillights, and new wheel designs. The X-Line and X-Pro models introduced a raised suspension and unique design elements, enhancing their off-road appeal. Inside, the Telluride featured a new digital instrumentation panel and a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, housed under a curved 24-inch glass panel. Interior changes included new colours, minor trim updates, and a more functional centre console. The Telluride's spacious interior and thoughtful design elements, such as embossed trim names on the front seatbacks, contributed to its modern and comfortable feel.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive in Canada, the Navigator offered impressive towing capacities between 3,674 and 3,765 kilograms, depending on configuration. The adaptive-damping suspension with Road Preview technology and a new electronic brake booster enhanced the driving experience, providing a smooth ride even on imperfect roads. Fuel consumption was rated at 13.2 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, with the test vehicle averaging 12.6 L/100 km.

The 2023 Kia Telluride retained its 3.8-litre V6 engine, producing 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The Telluride offered multiple driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Smart, Sport, and Snow, with an AWD system featuring a low-speed Lock setting. The X-Line averaged 9.8 litres per 100 kilometres, while the X-Pro returned 11.5 L/100 km, including off-roading. The Telluride's raised suspension, improved approach and departure angles, and new Downhill Brake Control system enhanced its off-road capabilities, while its smooth ride quality and quiet interior made it a pleasure to drive on highways.

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, with optional massaging, heating, and ventilation, provided a luxurious experience, while the third-row seat remained roomy and supportive. The Navigator's cargo space was generous, with 546 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,925 litres with the second-row seats folded. The long-wheelbase Navigator L offered even more space, with up to 3,403 litres of cargo volume.

The 2023 Kia Telluride accommodated seven or eight passengers, with premium Nappa leather upholstery and power-adjustable front seats. Heated and ventilated front and second-row captain's chairs added to the comfort, while the second row featured manual sunshades, USB ports, and storage pockets. The third-row seat was more comfortable than many competitors, though not as spacious as the Volkswagen Atlas. Cargo space was ample, with 601 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,455 litres with both rear rows folded. The Telluride's smart power tailgate and automatic closing function added convenience.

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 voice recognition system that 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 an exceptional listening experience.

The 2023 Kia Telluride came standard with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Kia Connect services. The voice recognition system performed well, though climate control adjustments required manual input. Over-the-air updates kept the system current, and six USB charging ports ensured power for all passengers. Features like Driver Talk, Quiet Mode, and a wireless phone charger added convenience, while the optional head-up display and Leading Vehicle Departure Alert system enhanced safety and usability.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced new driver assistance systems, including Intersection Assist, Active Park Assist 2.0, and ActiveGlide, a semi-autonomous driving technology. The surround-view camera system became standard, and ActiveGlide was approved for use on over 200,000 kilometres of North American roads. While the system performed well, it required driver attention and did not react to all potential threats, highlighting the need for human oversight.

The 2023 Kia Telluride offered an extensive list of standard safety features, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian and cyclist detection, and a new junction turning system. Advanced driving assistance systems like adaptive cruise control, Highway Drive Assist, and Intelligent Speed Limit Assist were also included. The Telluride's safety features performed well during testing, with the forward collision warning system providing timely alerts. The IIHS rated the 2023 Telluride as a Top Safety Pick+, though NHTSA ratings were unavailable at the time of review.