2023 Lincoln Navigator vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Volvo XC90 represented a significant evolution from the brand's earlier boxy designs, maintaining its family-friendly and safety-oriented image while moving towards a more upscale, luxury class. After Volvo's acquisition by China's Zhejiang Geely Holding in 2010, the company developed new vehicle platforms, including the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) for the XC90, which debuted as a 2016 model. The 2022 XC90 featured a sleek, aerodynamic profile with a long roofline and pronounced wheel arches, exuding athleticism. Its interior was characterized by "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury" aesthetics, with natural wood and metal trim, and options for Nappa leather or a tailored wool blend upholstery.

In contrast, the 2023 Lincoln Navigator, while awaiting a future electric version, continued to offer a luxurious and spacious experience without significant updates from its 2022 refresh. The Navigator Reserve model, available in Canada, featured a monochromatic package with black 22-inch wheels and body-colour trim. The interior boasted an all-black theme with real wood trim and chrome accents, complemented by ambient lighting. Despite its upscale appearance, some chrome plastic switchgear detracted from the luxury feel. The Navigator's cabin was spacious, with comfortable seating and a focus on functionality, although the ride quality was inconsistent, especially with the 22-inch wheels.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains, starting with the T5's turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The T6 variant added a supercharger, increasing output to 316 hp and 295 lb-ft. The Recharge model combined a supercharged/turbocharged engine with an electric motor, delivering a total of 455 hp and 523 lb-ft of torque. All models featured all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. Fuel efficiency varied, with the T5 achieving 11.5 L/100 km in the city and 8.4 on the highway, while the Recharge offered an 8.8 L/100 km combined rating in hybrid mode and a 29-kilometre EV range.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, generating 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and 4WD. It had a combined fuel economy rating of 13.2 L/100 km, though our test vehicle averaged 15.0 L/100 km. The Navigator featured five drive modes, including Excite, which improved handling but reduced fuel efficiency. Despite its size, the Navigator felt smaller on mountain roads, offering excellent visibility and grip, though the steering was slow and the brakes struggled with the SUV's weight.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 accommodated six or seven passengers, with easy access to the third row via a one-handed slide and fold of the second row. While the third row was suitable for children, adults found it lacking in legroom. Cargo capacity ranged from 357 litres behind the third row to 1,855 litres with all seats folded. The XC90 could tow up to 2,250 kilograms, making it suitable for light towing. The interior offered ample storage, a spacious cabin, and effective climate control, ensuring comfort in various weather conditions.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator excelled in functionality, with roomy seating across all three rows and an available extended body style for increased cargo space. Power-deploying running boards facilitated entry and exit, while the 30-way Perfect Position front seats offered heating, ventilation, and massage functions. However, the numerous adjustments proved challenging to perfect. The Navigator's storage options were generous, and the long-wheelbase model provided substantial cargo space, accommodating both passengers and luggage with ease.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a nine-inch touchscreen, offering tablet-like functionality and standard Bluetooth. While the system was occasionally glitchy, Apple CarPlay improved its performance. A 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and optional head-up display enhanced driver awareness. The Advanced package included a 360-degree camera system and advanced air cleaner. The XC90 also provided multiple USB ports for device charging.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator boasted a 12-inch digital instrumentation display, a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and an available widescreen head-up display. The Sync 4 system included Bluetooth, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a navigation system with voice recognition. The digital assistant performed well, and the 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D Audio System delivered impressive sound quality. However, the wireless smartphone charger overheated devices. Lincoln Play offered rear-seat entertainment, though it was underutilized by passengers.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 continued the brand's legacy of safety, featuring blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and more. The Pilot Assist system provided semi-autonomous driving assistance on highways. The XC90 earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator included the Co-Pilot360 suite of safety features, such as automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control. BlueCruise offered hands-free driving on designated highways but required frequent driver intervention. The Navigator received a 5-star side-impact protection rating and a 4-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA.