2022 Lincoln Navigator vs 2023 Land Rover Defender

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 with Lincoln's star and chrome detailing, which some felt reduced the vehicle'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, enhancing the overall luxurious feel. The introduction of the Sync 4 infotainment system with a larger 13.2-inch touchscreen display kept the Navigator competitive in the tech department.

In contrast, the 2023 Land Rover Defender maintained its rugged, boxy design reminiscent of the classic LR4, which appealed to customers seeking a traditional Land Rover look. The Defender's design was characterized by its square-jawed face, rectangular hood, and steeply angled fittings, creating a classic truck aesthetic. Tasteful nods to the original 1980s Defender included dome and faux-metal step plates on the hood, skylights along the roof, and a full-size wheel and tire mounted on the hatch. The Defender offered a variety of accessory packages and body styles, providing unmatched customization options. Inside, the Defender prioritized function and durability, with a mix of rubbers and plastics, exposed screws, and a basic yet unique interior that stood out against more opulent models.

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 a robust performance. Its towing capacity ranged from 3,674 to 3,765 kilograms, depending on the configuration. The adaptive-damping suspension with Road Preview technology enhanced ride comfort by preparing for road imperfections. The Navigator's electronic brake booster improved brake pedal feel, and its four-wheel drive system, combined with 24.5 centimetres of ground clearance, ensured confident handling in various conditions. 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 Land Rover Defender excelled off-road, with impressive grip, wheel articulation, and clearance. Its air suspension and Terrain Response 2 system adapted the vehicle to different surfaces, while permanent four-wheel drive provided stability. On-road, the Defender's performance was less refined, with noticeable body roll, slow steering, and wind noise. The Defender offered a range of engines, including a turbocharged inline-six and a supercharged V8. The V8 produced 518 horsepower and 461 pound-feet of torque, delivering exhilarating performance. The six-cylinder engine, part of a mild hybrid powertrain, offered 395 hp and 406 lb-ft, balancing performance and efficiency. Fuel economy varied, with the V8 returning 16.4/12.7/14.7 L/100 km, while the six-cylinder achieved 12.9/10.4/11.8 L/100 km.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator offered exceptional comfort with its heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, adjustable in 30 ways. The second-row captain's chairs were also heated, ventilated, and massaging, providing a luxurious experience. The third-row seat was spacious and comfortable, benefiting from the independent rear suspension design. The Navigator's cargo space was generous, with 546 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,925 litres with seats folded. The long-wheelbase Navigator L offered even more space, with up to 3,403 litres of cargo volume.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender provided unmatched seating configurations, with the Defender 90 offering a jump seat for three across the front. The Defender 110 had an optional third row, while the 130 featured a standard third row, accommodating up to eight passengers. The interior offered ample visibility with large glass areas and alpine lights. Cargo space varied by model, with the Defender 130 offering 2,180 litres with seats folded. The Defender's versatility extended to off-road capabilities, with options like a metal roof rack, console refrigerator, and power-deployable side steps.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator featured a new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen display, offering improved functionality and ease of use. The system supported Bluetooth, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay, with a voice recognition system that was better than its predecessor. 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 Land Rover Defender offered two touchscreen infotainment systems running Pivi Pro software. The standard 10-inch screen was integrated into the dashboard, while the optional 11.4-inch screen provided greater legibility. Both screens supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a voice assistant and connected apps. The Defender's technology package included heated front seats, keyless entry, and heated power-folding mirrors. Higher trims added features like air suspension, a head-up display, and a rearview mirror with a camera display.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced new driver assistance systems, including Intersection Assist, Active Park Assist 2.0, and ActiveGlide. The surround-view camera system was standard, enhancing safety. ActiveGlide, a semi-autonomous driving technology, allowed hands-free driving on approved highways, though driver attention was still required. The system performed well within its limits, but complete trust in the technology was not yet warranted.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender received a five-star rating in Euro NCAP crash testing, praised for its solid structure. It came equipped with six airbags, though more could be desired. Standard safety features included lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. The Defender offered a 360-degree camera system, head-up display, and automatic steering for trailer reversing, though a self-steering highway assist was not available.