2023 Lincoln Navigator vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 53 Coupe presented a design that was neither offensive nor particularly striking, with its Selenite Gray paint and 22-inch forged aluminum wheels. The SUV's styling, reminiscent of an athletic sneaker, was complemented by polished brightwork. Inside, the GLE 53 Coupe offered a luxurious experience with high-end materials, including Nappa premium leather and a Dinamica simulated suede headliner. The dual-screen instrumentation and infotainment design added a high-tech touch, though the lack of traditional controls required some acclimatization for new users.

In contrast, the 2023 Lincoln Navigator maintained its imposing presence without significant updates since its last redesign in 2018. The triple-black Navigator Reserve model featured the Monochromatic Package, adding black 22-inch wheels and body-colour trim. The interior, predominantly black with real wood trim and chrome accents, exuded an upscale feel. However, the chrome plastic on some switchgear detracted from the overall luxury. The ambient lighting in the 201A package added character to the cabin, enhancing the Navigator's premium appeal.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 53 Coupe was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-6 engine, delivering 429 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and 384 pound-feet of torque from 1,800 to 5,800 rpm. The EQ Boost 48-volt mild-hybrid system provided additional power and improved fuel efficiency, with a tested consumption of 12.7 L/100 km. The AMG GLE 53 Coupe featured a SpeedShift nine-speed automatic transmission and an AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system, offering various driving modes such as Comfort, Sport, and Sport+. The adaptive damping control air suspension and AMG Active Ride Control suspension enhanced performance, while the speed-sensitive variable-ratio power steering facilitated urban manoeuvrability.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator was equipped with a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and 4WD drivetrain, the Navigator had a fuel economy rating of 13.2 L/100 km, though it averaged 15.0 L/100 km during testing. The Navigator offered five Lincoln Drive Modes, including Conserve and Excite, with an adaptive damping suspension featuring Road Preview. While Excite mode improved handling on mountain roads, it negatively impacted fuel efficiency. The Navigator's size and weight posed challenges in urban settings, with its steering and brakes struggling on demanding roads.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe accommodated up to five passengers, though it was more comfortable for four. The sport-bolstered, multi-contour front seats offered numerous adjustments, including heating, ventilation, and massage. The back seat provided ample legroom, and the cargo hold offered 655 litres of space, expandable to 1,790 litres with the rear seats folded. Additional comfort features included a four-zone automatic climate control system and an Air Balance in-cabin fragrance system.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator excelled in functionality, with spacious seating across three rows and an available extended body style. The power-deploying running boards facilitated cabin access, while the 30-way Perfect Position front seats offered heating, ventilation, and massage. The second-row captain’s chairs provided a pass-through to the third row, which accommodated taller adults comfortably. The Navigator's storage options were generous, and the long-wheelbase Navigator L model offered significantly more cargo space, with up to 3,403 litres available.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the MBUX infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch screens, offering navigation, satellite radio, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system's natural voice recognition technology was a highlight, though the touchpad on the centre console was prone to accidental activation. Optional features included an MBUX Interior Assistant and an augmented video feature for navigation.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator's technology suite included a 12-inch digital instrumentation display and a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system with the Sync 4 system. It offered Bluetooth, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a navigation system with enhanced voice recognition. The digital assistant performed well, and the 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D Audio System provided excellent sound quality. The Lincoln Play system, however, was underutilized by rear-seat passengers.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe came equipped with numerous safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Intelligent Drive Package added 13 additional systems, such as Active Lane Change Assist and Active Emergency Stop Assist. While crash-test results for the GLE Coupe were unavailable, the standard GLE received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator featured the Co-Pilot360 suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control. The BlueCruise hands-free driving assist system operated on designated highways, though it required frequent driver intervention. The Navigator received a 5-star side-impact protection rating and a 4-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA.