2022 Mazda CX-30 vs 2022 Lincoln Navigator

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 was a stylish subcompact SUV, reminiscent of a smaller CX-5 with its upright grille and smooth fenders. Built on the same platform as the Mazda3, it was essentially a raised version of the Mazda3 hatchback. The CX-30 featured a raked windshield that acted like a greenhouse, potentially causing distractions for taller drivers due to its slight curve. Inside, the cabin was comfortable and quiet, with a solid feel to all components. The interior design was one of the best among affordable cars, blending conventional and digital displays artfully. However, the infotainment system, while attractive, had a steep learning curve.

In contrast, the 2022 Lincoln Navigator underwent subtle styling changes, including new headlights, taillights, and wheel designs. 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. Inside, it dazzled with quality materials and a mid-century modern design, featuring Lincoln’s Constellation instrumentation and infotainment display theme. The new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen was a significant upgrade, offering a user-friendly experience with ample display space.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 offered a range of engine options. The base GX model featured a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 155 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque. The GS and GT models came with a 2.5-litre engine producing 186 horsepower and torque. The test model had an upgraded 2.5-litre turbocharged engine, delivering 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque on 87 octane fuel, and 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft on 93 octane. The CX-30's sporty ride was complemented by a six-speed automatic transmission, paddle shifters, and a Sport mode for enhanced throttle response. However, the ride could be rough over potholes and imperfections.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator retained its twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing a robust 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD in Canada, it offered impressive towing capacities between 3,674 and 3,765 kilograms. The Navigator's adaptive-damping suspension with Road Preview technology smoothed out rough roads, while a new electronic brake booster improved brake response. Despite its size, the Navigator handled snow and mud effortlessly, thanks to its ground clearance and traction settings. Fuel consumption was rated at 13.2 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 provided up to 1,280 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded, and 572 litres with them in use. The GT grade featured a power rear liftgate, enhancing convenience. The front seats had a sliding centre console cover, though it could get stuck when the rear seats were folded. Rear seats offered decent headroom for short-to-medium trips but were less spacious than the larger CX-5.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator excelled in comfort, with heated, ventilated, and massaging 30-way power-adjustable front seats. The second-row captain’s chairs were also heated, ventilated, and massaging, providing a luxurious experience. The third-row seats were roomy and supportive, thanks to the independent rear suspension design. Cargo space was generous, with 546 litres behind the third row, 1,627 litres with it folded, and a maximum of 2,925 litres with the second row collapsed. The long-wheelbase Navigator L offered even more space.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 featured an elegant dash design with an infotainment screen nestled into the dash, controlled by a rotary dial and toggle buttons. However, the lack of touch functionality made it challenging to use, especially with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system was inspired by luxury-car infotainment systems but lacked usability, making it frustrating for users.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator's new Sync 4 infotainment system featured a 13.2-inch touchscreen, offering a user-friendly experience with support for Bluetooth, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. The system allowed for extensive customization, with about 80 individual vehicle settings that could be saved to a user profile. The voice recognition system was improved, though 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 exceptional sound quality.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 offered several driver-assistance features, though many were not standard in Canada. Available features included forward collision avoidance, pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Standard features included rain-sensing wipers, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The CX-30 earned top safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS, with a five-star rating and a Top Safety Pick+ designation, respectively.

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 newly standard. ActiveGlide, Lincoln’s semi-autonomous driving technology, allowed for hands-free driving on approved highways. While the system performed well, it required constant driver attention. These systems represented steps toward fully autonomous driving but highlighted the importance of driver vigilance.