2023 Mazda CX-30 vs 2022 Lincoln Navigator

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 was a significant upgrade, keeping the Navigator competitive in the screen size race.

In contrast, the 2023 Mazda CX-30 offered an artful design with a long hood and dramatic flanks, though its appearance was marred by excessive grey body cladding. The GT Turbo's black wheels were nearly invisible against the dark lower body. Inside, the CX-30 boasted an upscale cabin with quality materials, including off-white leather and a chocolate brown centre console. The interior exuded an entry-level luxury feel, justifying its premium pricing. However, the lack of a touchscreen display in the Mazda Connect infotainment system was a notable drawback, requiring drivers to rely on centre console controls and voice recognition, which could be distracting.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator featured a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive in Canada. It offered a towing capacity of up to 3,765 kilograms, depending on the configuration. The Navigator's adaptive-damping suspension, equipped with Road Preview technology, provided a smooth ride, even on imperfect pavement. The new electronic brake booster improved brake pedal feel and response. During testing, the Navigator averaged 12.6 L/100 km in fuel consumption, slightly better than the expected 13.2 L/100 km.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 offered three powertrains, with the GT Turbo model featuring a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing up to 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel. The six-speed automatic transmission with Sport mode and standard all-wheel drive provided robust acceleration. However, the CX-30's small 48-litre fuel tank limited its range, requiring frequent refueling stops. The suspension, while compliant, struggled with speed bumps and humps, impacting ride quality. Despite these drawbacks, the CX-30 excelled on twisty roads, offering an enjoyable driving experience with its G-Vectoring Control Plus technology.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator offered exceptional comfort with its 30-way power-adjustable front seats, which were heated, ventilated, and available with a massaging function. 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 design. The Navigator's cargo space was generous, with up to 2,925 litres of volume with the second-row seats folded down, making it ideal for families with large hauling needs.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 provided standard dual-zone automatic climate control, an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, and a power moonroof. However, the front passenger seat offered only four-way manual adjustment, limiting comfort. Rear passengers had limited legroom, though the seatbacks were padded for added comfort. The CX-30's cargo space was modest, with 572 litres available with the rear seats up and 1,280 litres with them folded down. While storage space was reasonable, the lack of underfloor storage and nooks was a drawback.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator's new Sync 4 infotainment system featured a 13.2-inch touchscreen display, offering improved functionality and ease of use. The system supported Bluetooth, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay, with voice recognition that was better than the previous model. 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 Mazda CX-30's Mazda Connect infotainment system lacked a touchscreen display, relying on centre console controls and voice recognition, which could be distracting. The system offered Bluetooth, HD Radio, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, with Turbos adding SiriusXM satellite radio and a navigation system. The 14-speaker Bose premium sound system provided adequate audio quality, but the lack of a tuning knob was a notable inconvenience.

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. The surround-view camera system was newly standard. ActiveGlide performed well on approved highways, though drivers needed to remain attentive. The system represented a step toward fully autonomous driving but required human oversight.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 received a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS, thanks to improved side-impact crash protection and standard rear side airbags. The GX trim included blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, while higher trims added adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and more. The GT and GT Turbo trims offered advanced features like a surround-view camera and traffic jam assist. The forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking system worked effectively, though it could be overly sensitive in certain situations.