2023 Lincoln Navigator vs 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport was crafted by removing the third row from the standard seven-passenger Atlas model, lowering the roofline by nearly 6 centimetres for a sleeker, coupe-like appearance, and shortening the SUV’s length by 13.2 cm. Despite these changes, the wheelbase remained the same, ensuring a spacious interior for five passengers. However, the Cross Sport’s design adjustments resulted in reduced cargo space, offering 1,141 litres behind the second-row seat and a maximum of 2,203 litres. The Execline trim, with its 21-inch machined-finish wheels, added a bold and upscale look, although the base Comfortline trim's 18-inch wheels appeared undersized. The interior offered various colour combinations, but the presence of hard, glossy plastics detracted from the overall quality impression.

In contrast, the 2023 Lincoln Navigator maintained its imposing presence without significant updates since its last redesign in 2018. The Navigator Reserve model, with its triple-black exterior and Monochromatic Package, exuded a sophisticated aura. The interior, adorned with real wood trim and chrome accents, provided a luxurious feel, although some chrome plastic switchgear fell short of conveying true luxury. The ambient lighting added character to the cabin, enhancing the upscale atmosphere. Despite its size, the Navigator's design allowed for excellent outward visibility, making it feel more manageable on the road.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine delivering 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.6-litre V6 engine producing 276 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. The V6 engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and VW’s 4Motion all-wheel-drive system, provided a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. However, the V6's aging design and occasional lack of refinement were noted, with a fuel economy rating of 12.2 L/100 km in combined driving. The suspension, while keeping body roll in check, was criticized for its harshness at lower speeds and excessive softness at higher speeds.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator, equipped with a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivered an impressive 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and 4WD drivetrain, the Navigator averaged 15.0 L/100 km on the testing loop. The adaptive damping suspension, featuring Road Preview, aimed to enhance ride quality but was found lacking, with the SUV exhibiting a truck-like ride over smaller bumps and a floating sensation over larger undulations. The Excite driving mode improved handling on winding roads but negatively impacted fuel efficiency. Despite its size, the Navigator felt more agile on mountain roads, though its weight challenged the brakes.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport shared its wheelbase and interior dimensions with the larger seven-passenger model, offering ample space for five adults. The test vehicle featured 10-way power-adjustable front seats, heated rear seats, and a dual-zone automatic climate control system. The panoramic sunroof and rear side-window sunshades added to the interior's spacious feel. Storage space was abundant, though the lack of lining in storage areas led to potential rattling. The cargo area, while reduced compared to the seven-passenger model, still provided sufficient space for luggage and other items.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator excelled in functionality, offering roomy seats in all three rows and an available extended body style for increased cargo capacity. The test vehicle featured Lincoln’s 30-way Perfect Position power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The second-row captain’s chairs provided a pass-through to the third-row seat, accommodating taller adults comfortably. Storage space was generous, with various trays and compartments throughout the cabin. The Navigator L model offered significantly more cargo space, making it ideal for carrying both passengers and luggage.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport came standard with the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit, featuring a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The system included Bluetooth pairing, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and wireless charging. However, user experience issues with the touchscreen and voice recognition technology were noted. The Execline trim added a 12-speaker Fender premium audio system, praised for its sound quality.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator featured a 12-inch digital instrumentation display, a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and an available widescreen head-up display. The Sync 4 infotainment system included Bluetooth, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM 360L satellite radio, and Alexa Built-in. The digital assistant performed well, accurately responding to commands. The test vehicle also included a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D Audio System, delivering exceptional sound quality. The Lincoln Play system, with dual touchscreens for rear-seat passengers, was available but underutilized by teenagers during testing.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The Travel Assist system, combining adaptive cruise control with lane-centring assist, was generally accurate but occasionally lacked refinement. The Atlas Cross Sport received favourable crash-test ratings, though not the highest accolades from safety organizations.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator was equipped with the Co-Pilot360 suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. The BlueCruise hands-free driving assist system, designed for use on designated highways, faced challenges with curves and construction zones. The Navigator received a 5-star side-impact protection rating and a 4-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA.