2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2022 Lincoln Navigator

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator underwent subtle styling changes, with new headlights, taillights, and wheel designs, alongside an updated Lincoln Embrace nighttime welcome illumination sequence. The SUV's front end was restyled, featuring an Audi-esque grille that some felt detracted from its 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 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 was redesigned, sharing a platform with the C-Class sedan, while the GLC Coupe models remained unchanged. The GLC 300's exterior changes were subtle, with narrower taillights being the most noticeable update. The interior received a significant makeover, featuring a large vertical infotainment touchscreen and a tablet-like instrument panel. The GLC maintained its reputation for excellent materials quality and solid construction, offering a simpler and cleaner cockpit design compared to its rivals. The GLC Coupe retained its first-generation interior, which aged well and offered some usability advantages over the newer model.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet 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 SUV's adaptive-damping suspension, updated with Road Preview technology, provided a smooth ride, while the new electronic brake booster improved brake pedal feel and response. 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 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 was equipped with a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, delivering 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. It featured a 9-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Matic all-wheel drive in Canada. The GLC 300 accelerated smoothly, reaching 100 km/h in approximately 6.2 seconds. The brake pedal effort was noted as soft, but effective, while the suspension favoured comfort over sporty handling. The GLC Coupe continued with its older four-cylinder turbo engine, producing 255 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque, while the AMG GLC 43 Coupe offered a sportier option with a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6, delivering 385 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator offered exceptionally comfortable front seats with 30-way power adjustments, heating, ventilation, and optional massaging functions. The second-row captain's chairs were also heated, ventilated, and massaging, providing a comfortable ride. The third-row seat was spacious and supportive, benefiting from the independent rear suspension design. The Navigator's cargo space was generous, with 546 litres behind the third row, 1,627 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 2,925 litres with the second row collapsed. The long-wheelbase Navigator L offered even more cargo space.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC's front seats were adjustable and comfortable for long-distance travel, with standard heated seats and a heated steering wheel. The synthetic leather upholstery was convincing, and real leather was available for a smoother feel. The GLC offered ample storage space, though the piano black trim attracted dust and fingerprints. The rear seats provided good legroom, but headroom was limited for taller passengers. The standard GLC had 620 litres of cargo space, while the GLC Coupe's sloping roofline reduced capacity to 500 litres.

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 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 exceptional sound quality.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC's interior was dominated by an 11.9-inch touchscreen, offering sharp graphics and immediate responses. However, its lower placement on the dash made it more distracting to use. The MBUX infotainment system featured excellent voice recognition, though it interrupted audio playback. Standard connectivity included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with an available Burmester 3D Surround Sound system for audio enthusiasts.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced new driver assistance systems, including Intersection Assist, Active Park Assist 2.0, and ActiveGlide. A surround-view camera system was also standard. ActiveGlide, a semi-autonomous driving technology, allowed for hands-free driving on approved highways, though drivers needed to remain attentive. The system performed well within its operational limits but required human intervention in certain situations.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300's crash-test results were not yet available, but the previous GLC received high ratings from NHTSA and IIHS. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and a blind-spot monitor. The optional Intelligent Drive package added adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and other advanced features. The GLC Coupe shared similar safety features, with additional cross-traffic alerts and a surround-view camera.