2022 Lincoln Navigator vs 2023 Subaru Forester

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 lacked the elegance of previous models. Despite this, the Navigator's updates were largely successful, with the new grille being a minor footnote. Inside, the Navigator impressed with quality materials and a mid-century modern design, highlighted by the Constellation instrumentation and infotainment display theme. The new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen added to the vehicle's appeal, offering ample display space for various functions.

In contrast, the 2023 Subaru Forester maintained its traditional, functional design, resembling previous models. The Premier trim, with its 18-inch alloy wheels and satin chrome exterior trim, was the most visually appealing. The Forester's interior featured brown leather, exposed stitching, and metallic accents, with a focus on practicality and ease of use. The control layout relied on traditional buttons and knobs, making it user-friendly. While the Forester's appearance was busy, it was designed for functionality, with robust roof rails and a spacious interior, making it a practical choice for those prioritizing utility over style.

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 enhanced ride quality, while the new electronic brake booster improved braking performance. The Navigator handled various road conditions with ease, including snow and mud, thanks to its 24.5 cm ground clearance and four-wheel drive. Fuel consumption was rated at 13.2 L/100 km, with the test drive averaging 12.6 L/100 km.

The 2023 Subaru Forester was equipped with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. It used a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with eight programmed ratios and featured Subaru's SI-Drive system for improved responsiveness. The Forester's X-Mode off-road traction control system included Deep Snow and Mud settings, enhancing its off-road capabilities. The Forester Premier, tested in challenging weather conditions, demonstrated confidence and ease in handling flooded roads and muddy trails. The Forester's driving dynamics were praised for their comfort and handling, though the engine was considered merely adequate. Fuel consumption was 9.1 L/100 km, slightly above the official rating of 8.2 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 and ventilated, with an upgraded rear-seat entertainment system. The third-row seat provided ample space and comfort, thanks to the independent rear suspension design. The Navigator's cargo space was generous, with 546 litres behind the third row and up to 2,925 litres with seats folded. The long-wheelbase Navigator L offered even more space, with 972 litres behind the third row and up to 3,403 litres with seats folded.

The 2023 Subaru Forester prioritized function over form, offering a practical and spacious interior. The Touring trim included a panoramic sunroof, power-adjustable driver's seat, and heated front seats. Higher trims featured leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, and heated rear seats. The Forester's visibility was excellent, with large windows and mirrors. However, the panoramic sunroof lacked sufficient tinting, and the rear seats were less comfortable for taller adults. The Forester's cargo area was well-designed, with 762 litres of space behind the rear seats and up to 1,957 litres with seats folded.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator featured a new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen, offering improved functionality and user-friendliness. The system supported Bluetooth, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay, with voice recognition capabilities. The upgraded Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system included Amazon Fire TV, providing access to streaming services. The optional 28-speaker Revel 3D audio system delivered exceptional sound quality.

The 2023 Subaru Forester's technology included a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. An 8-inch touchscreen with navigation and a Harman Kardon audio system was available. The Forester's user interface was simple and intuitive, with separate climate controls and easy-to-use knobs. However, the voice recognition system was unreliable, making Apple CarPlay or Android Auto preferable for navigation and other functions.

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. ActiveGlide, a semi-autonomous driving technology, performed well on approved highways but required driver attention. The system represented a step towards fully autonomous driving but required careful monitoring.

The 2023 Subaru Forester featured the next-generation EyeSight system with updated software and cameras. Adaptive cruise control was standard, and higher trims included Automatic Emergency Steering and Rear Automatic Braking. The DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System was available on Limited and Premier trims. The Forester received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, a step down from the previous year's Top Safety Pick+ award. It earned five-star ratings from the NHTSA.