2023 Lincoln Navigator vs 2022 Mazda CX-5

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 presented a refreshed exterior with new LED headlights and taillights, redesigned bumpers, a revised grille, and a new rear liftgate. These updates aimed to enhance its premium appeal, especially in the Signature trim, which featured body-color lower exterior trim. Inside, the CX-5 maintained its luxurious feel with Nappa leather upholstery, real wood trim, and polished metallic accents. The interior remained unchanged, but the new seats promised improved comfort, addressing previous complaints about the seating experience. The model also introduced a more complex trim lineup, offering choices between the 2.5 S and 2.5 Turbo, with the latter providing a turbocharged engine for those seeking more power.

In contrast, the 2023 Lincoln Navigator continued its legacy as a full-size luxury SUV without significant updates. The test vehicle, a triple-black Navigator Reserve model, featured the Monochromatic Package, adding black 22-inch wheels and body-color trim. The interior, predominantly black with real wood trim and chrome accents, exuded luxury, though some chrome plastic elements fell short of expectations. The ambient lighting in the Reserve I package added character to the cabin. Despite its upscale appearance, the Navigator's ride quality was criticized, with the adaptive damping suspension failing to deliver the expected smoothness. The SUV's size posed challenges in urban environments, making it less maneuverable in tight spaces.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options: the 2.5 S with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, and the 2.5 Turbo, which delivered 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque on premium gas. Both engines came with a revised six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The CX-5's driving dynamics were praised for their improved ride quality, reduced noise, and enhanced handling, making it a compelling alternative to entry-level luxury SUVs. The 2.5 Turbo's fuel economy was rated at 24 mpg in combined driving, though real-world testing showed 21.1 mpg.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator featured a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine generating 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and 4WD. The Navigator's fuel economy was rated at 18 mpg in combined driving, but testing revealed an average of 15.6 mpg. The SUV offered five drive modes, including Excite, which improved handling but negatively impacted fuel efficiency. Despite its size, the Navigator felt surprisingly nimble on winding roads, though its steering was criticized for being slow and lifeless. The brakes struggled with the SUV's weight, leading to a soft pedal during demanding driving.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 addressed previous complaints with new seats that provided better support and a sportier driving position. The interior featured leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, and heated and ventilated front seats. However, the back seat remained snug, and the control layout was frustrating due to the lack of a touchscreen display. Cargo space was adequate, with 30.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 59.3 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator excelled in functionality, offering spacious seating in all three rows and an extended body style for increased cargo capacity. The test vehicle featured 30-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions, though finding the perfect adjustment proved challenging. Storage space was generous, and the Navigator L model provided significantly more cargo space. The interior's clean look was maintained with covers for cupholders and the wireless charging pad.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 retained its Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 10.25-inch display, lacking touch capability and natural voice recognition. Users had to rely on center console controls and steering wheel buttons. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with a three-year trial of Mazda Connected Services. The 10-speaker Bose sound system, available from the 2.5 S Premium trim, delivered satisfactory audio quality.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator featured a 12-inch digital instrumentation display, a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and a dual-screen Lincoln Play infotainment system. The Sync 4 system included wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a navigation system, and Alexa Built-in. The digital assistant performed well, understanding commands accurately. The 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D Audio System provided excellent sound quality. However, the wireless smartphone charger caused overheating issues.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 came equipped with the i-Activsense package, offering adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. Higher trims added features like adaptive headlights and a surround-view camera system. The CX-5 received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS, highlighting its strong safety credentials.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator included the Lincoln Co-Pilot360 2.0 and Co-Pilot360 2.0 Drive packages, featuring advanced systems like Evasive Steering Assist and Intersection Assist. BlueCruise, a hands-free driving assist system, was available but had limitations in certain conditions. The Navigator received a 5-star side-impact protection rating and a 4-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA.