2022 Lincoln Navigator vs 2022 Subaru Ascent

The 2022 Subaru Ascent introduced a new Onyx Edition trim level, which featured a trendy blacked-out exterior trim. This edition sat in the middle of the Ascent lineup, offering a sporty appearance that was previously absent. Buyers could choose from various trim levels, including Convenience, Touring, Onyx Edition, Limited, and Premier, with prices ranging from $37,295 to $51,795, excluding a $1,875 destination fee in Canada. The Onyx Edition, priced at $44,995, included unique design elements such as black 20-inch aluminum wheels, a distinctive grille, and water-repellant StarTex synthetic leather seats. While the blacked-out look added a sporty touch, the interior's gray two-tone scheme with metallic trim set a suitable mood. However, the StarTex material had a tendency to trap sweat, making ventilated seats a desirable feature, though only available on the Premier trim.

In contrast, the 2022 Lincoln Navigator underwent subtle styling changes, including new headlights, taillights, and wheel designs, along with an updated Lincoln Embrace nighttime welcome illumination sequence. The front end received a restyling, featuring an Audi-esque grille with Lincoln star and chrome detailing, which some felt reduced the SUV's elegance. Despite this, the Navigator's interior continued to impress 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 display was a significant upgrade, offering ample display space. The Navigator was available in standard and long-wheelbase styles, with the Reserve trim level starting at $107,500, excluding a $2,395 destination charge. The U.S.-spec Navigator Black Label, tested in a new Central Park theme, featured a unique green interior and second-row heated, ventilated, and massaging captain's chairs.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. It featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive (AWD). The Ascent's fuel consumption was rated at 10.5 litres per 100 kilometres combined, with our testing averaging 11.5 L/100 km. The flat-four engine design contributed to a lower centre of gravity, enhancing handling. The CVT offered eight programmed ratios and manual shift control, providing brisk acceleration and commendable passing power. The Ascent's towing capacity reached up to 2,270 kilograms, and its X-Mode off-road traction control system, hill descent control, and 22 centimetres of ground clearance added off-roading capability. While the Ascent felt nimble and maneuverable in urban settings, its lane-keeping and lane-centring assistance technologies sometimes created an unstable feel on highways.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator retained its twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive in Canada, the Navigator offered a towing capacity between 3,674 and 3,765 kilograms, depending on configuration. The Navigator's adaptive-damping suspension, featuring Road Preview, prepared the suspension for bumps and potholes, ensuring a smooth ride. Despite its heavy 22-inch wheels, the Navigator handled imperfect pavement with ease. The new electronic brake booster improved brake pedal feel and response. The Navigator's fuel consumption was rated at 13.2 litres per 100 kilometres combined, with our testing averaging 12.6 L/100 km. The SUV's four-wheel drive, 24.5 centimetres of ground clearance, and adaptive suspension provided confidence in various driving conditions.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent accommodated up to eight passengers with a second-row bench seat, though the third row was best suited for children. The driver's seat offered a comfortable and commanding position, and the Onyx Edition was equipped for winter weather with features like heated front seats and a wiper de-icer. The Ascent's wide rear doors facilitated easy access to the second row, and captain's chairs were available on most trims. The SUV provided ample storage, including a dashboard shelf and large cupholders. Cargo space measured 458 litres behind the third row, 1,193 litres behind the second row, and 2,061 litres with both rows folded.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator's front seats were exceptionally comfortable, with 30-way power adjustments, heating, ventilation, and available massaging functions. The second-row captain's chairs offered similar comfort, and the updated Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system provided access to streaming services. The third-row seat remained spacious and supportive, thanks to the independent rear suspension design. The Navigator's cargo space was generous, with 546 litres behind the third row, 1,627 litres with the third row folded, and 2,925 litres with the second row collapsed. The long-wheelbase Navigator L offered even more cargo capacity.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent's base trim featured a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, HD Radio, satellite radio, and a CD player. The Touring trim added an 8-inch display with Starlink connected services. While the system was user-friendly, the voice recognition technology needed improvement. The Onyx Edition used standard stereo speakers, but the optional Harman Kardon premium sound system was not available for this trim. Premier trim levels offered additional features like a digital rearview mirror and a 180-degree-view front camera.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced a new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen display, offering a user-friendly interface with Bluetooth, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. The system's voice recognition was improved, though not perfect. 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 2022 Subaru Ascent received a "Top Safety Pick+" award from the IIHS and five-star crash-test ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rating in rollover resistance. The Ascent came standard with EyeSight driver-assist technology, including adaptive cruise control and lane-centring. However, the system's performance was affected by direct sunlight, and its adaptive cruise control and lane-centring lacked refinement. Additional safety features included steering responsive LED headlights and available blind-spot monitoring.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced new driver assistance systems, including Intersection Assist, Active Park Assist 2.0, and ActiveGlide. The surround-view camera system became standard. Intersection Assist automatically braked in unsafe situations, while Active Park Assist 2.0 handled parking tasks. ActiveGlide, a semi-autonomous driving technology, allowed hands-free driving on approved highways. While ActiveGlide performed well, it required driver attention and did not always identify threats.