2022 Lincoln Navigator vs 2022 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas carried forward with minimal changes from its predecessor, offering a range of trims in Canada: Trendline, Comfortline, Highline, and Execline. The Execline trim, which was the top-tier option, featured R-Line design elements, including 21-inch alloy wheels that enhanced its upscale appearance. Despite its bold exterior styling, the interior of the Atlas was a mix of simplicity and premium flair, though it was let down by the use of low-cost materials and hard plastics, which detracted from the overall quality feel expected in a vehicle nearing the $60,000 mark.

In contrast, the 2022 Lincoln Navigator underwent subtle styling updates, including new headlights, taillights, and a restyled front end. While the new grille design was reminiscent of an Audi, it did not quite match the elegance of previous models. 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 introduction of the Sync 4 infotainment system with a larger 13.2-inch touchscreen display was a significant upgrade, enhancing the Navigator's technological appeal.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered a choice between a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and a 3.6-litre V6 engine. The turbocharged engine produced 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, requiring premium fuel for optimal performance. It had a towing capacity of 907 kilograms and a fuel consumption rating of 10.6 litres per 100 kilometres. The V6 engine, standard on the Execline trim, delivered 276 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, with a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. However, its performance was considered leisurely, and the engine's design felt outdated. The Atlas featured various driving modes and an AWD system with Active Control calibrations, but its ride quality was criticized for being busy and noisy.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator, powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivered an impressive 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. It offered a towing capacity between 3,674 and 3,765 kilograms, depending on the configuration. The Navigator's adaptive-damping suspension with Road Preview technology provided a smooth ride, even on imperfect pavement. The SUV's fuel consumption was rated at 13.2 litres per 100 kilometres, and during testing, it averaged 12.6 litres per 100 kilometres. The Navigator's performance was further enhanced by its 4WD system, which handled various road conditions with ease.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in interior space and comfort, seating seven passengers with ample head and legroom, even in the third row. The SUV's low step-in height made it easy to access, and it offered numerous storage areas, though many were unlined, leading to unwanted noise. Cargo space was generous, with 583 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,572 litres with the third row folded, and 2,741 litres with the second row down.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator offered exceptional comfort with its 30-way power-adjustable front seats, which were heated, ventilated, and available with a massaging function. The second-row captain's chairs were also heated, ventilated, and massaging, providing a luxurious experience. The third row was spacious and comfortable, thanks to the independent rear suspension design. The Navigator's cargo space was substantial, with 546 litres behind the third row, 1,627 litres with the third row folded, and 2,925 litres with the second row down. The long-wheelbase Navigator L offered even more cargo capacity.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas came standard with the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit instrument cluster, featuring an 8-inch display that expanded to 10.25 inches on higher trims. The Trendline trim had a basic 6.5-inch touchscreen, while other trims featured the MIB3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 12-speaker Fender premium audio system on the Execline trim. However, the user experience was hindered by slow loading times and a cumbersome interface.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced the Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen display, offering a user-friendly experience with support for Bluetooth, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. The system featured a voice recognition system that, while not perfect, was an improvement over the previous model. The Navigator also offered an upgraded Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV, providing access to popular streaming services. The optional 28-speaker Revel 3D audio system delivered an exceptional listening experience.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic post-collision braking, Front Assist, Side Assist, and Rear Traffic Alert. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, parking sensors, and a surround-view camera system. However, the Atlas's Lane Assist technology was criticized for its inability to ignore old construction markings, and its crash-test ratings were not class-leading.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced new driver assistance systems, such as Intersection Assist, Active Park Assist 2.0, and ActiveGlide, a semi-autonomous driving technology. The surround-view camera system was standard, and ActiveGlide allowed for hands-free driving on approved highways. While the system performed well, it required constant driver attention, and the lack of complete trust in the technology could increase stress.