2022 Lincoln Navigator vs 2022 Mazda CX-5

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 underwent subtle yet significant updates, including new LED headlights and taillights that provided more distinctive illumination. The exterior also featured redesigned bumpers, a revised grille, and a new rear liftgate, with the top Signature trim boasting body-colour lower exterior trim to enhance its premium appeal. Inside, the CX-5 retained its luxurious feel, especially in the Signature trim, with premium Nappa leather upholstery, real wood trim, and polished metallic accents. The new seats offered improved comfort, addressing previous complaints about the seating. The CX-5 was available in various trims, with prices ranging from $30,500 to $43,650, excluding destination charges.

In contrast, the 2022 Lincoln Navigator received subtle styling changes, including new headlights, taillights, and wheel designs. The front end was restyled with an Audi-esque grille, which some felt diminished its elegance. Inside, the Navigator continued to impress with high-quality materials and a mid-century modern design, featuring the new Constellation instrumentation and infotainment display theme. The SUV offered a new Sync 4 infotainment system with a larger 13.2-inch touchscreen display, enhancing its tech appeal. The Navigator was available in standard and long-wheelbase styles, with prices starting at $107,500, excluding destination charges.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 offered a base Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, paired with a revised 6-speed automatic transmission for improved responsiveness. All CX-5 models came with standard all-wheel drive, and the fuel consumption was rated at 9.3 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. For those seeking more power, the turbocharged engine option delivered 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque on premium gas, with a fuel consumption of 9.8 L/100 km. The CX-5 featured the new Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive) with Normal, Sport, and Off-Road settings, enhancing its driving dynamics and ride quality.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator retained its twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque, paired with 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 featured an updated adaptive-damping suspension with Road Preview, which prepared the suspension for bumps and potholes. The Navigator's fuel consumption was rated at 13.2 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, and during testing, it averaged 12.6 L/100 km.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 addressed previous complaints about its ride and seating with new furnishings that provided better support and comfort. The driving position was sportier, and the interior featured dual-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The back seat remained snug, but heated outboard cushions and air conditioning vents improved passenger comfort. The control layout was a source of frustration due to the lack of a touchscreen display and natural voice recognition. Cargo space was adequate, with 871 litres behind the rear seats and 1,680 litres with the seats folded.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator offered exceptionally comfortable front seats with 30-way power adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massaging functions. 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 offered generous storage and cargo space, with 546 litres behind the third row and up to 2,925 litres with the second-row seats folded. The long-wheelbase Navigator L provided even more cargo capacity.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 retained its Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 10.25-inch display and Bluetooth, but it lacked a touchscreen interface and natural voice recognition. Users had to rely on centre console and steering wheel controls, which required acclimation. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with a 10-speaker Bose premium sound system on higher trims. Mazda Connected Services offered a complimentary two-year trial subscription for new owners.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced 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, and users could save settings to a user profile. The voice recognition system was improved but not perfect. The Navigator also featured an upgraded Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV, providing access to streaming services. The optional 28-speaker Revel 3D audio system delivered exceptional sound quality.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 came equipped with the i-Activsense package, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims added features like adaptive headlights, a surround-view camera system, and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS, highlighting its strong safety credentials.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced new driver assistance systems, including Intersection Assist, Active Park Assist 2.0, and ActiveGlide. The SUV also featured a surround-view camera system. ActiveGlide, Lincoln's semi-autonomous driving technology, allowed for hands-free driving on approved highways. While the system performed well, drivers were required to remain attentive. These safety features represented steps toward fully autonomous driving but required driver engagement.