2022 Lincoln Navigator vs 2021 Chevrolet Suburban

The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban's front-end design was polarizing, with a mix of small headlights and large, busy grilles that didn't quite complement its massive frame. Chevy designers seemed to have borrowed elements from the Camaro, which didn't translate well to the Suburban's larger size. Despite the exterior's divisive look, the interior remained familiar and functional, with controls in their usual places and a user-friendly layout. The High Country trim, which we tested, offered upscale features but fell short of true luxury, with hard plastics and less-than-premium materials.

In contrast, the 2022 Lincoln Navigator made subtle yet impactful styling changes, including new headlights, taillights, and a restyled front end. While the new grille design was less elegant than before, the overall update was successful. Inside, the Navigator dazzled with high-quality materials and a mid-century modern design. The new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen and the Constellation display theme added a touch of modern sophistication. The Black Label trim we tested featured a luxurious Central Park theme, complete with heated, ventilated, and massaging second-row captain’s chairs.

The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban offered three engine options: a standard 5.3-liter V8 with 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, a 6.2-liter V8 with 420 hp and 460 lb-ft, and a newly available 3.0-liter Duramax turbodiesel inline-six producing 277 hp and 460 lb-ft. All engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, with rear-wheel drive (RWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD) options. The diesel engine provided excellent pickup and V8-level torque, making it a strong performer. The Suburban's independent rear suspension improved ride quality, but it still exhibited some truck-like handling characteristics.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator continued with its twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering a robust 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, offered impressive towing capabilities ranging from 8,100 to 8,700 pounds. The Navigator's adaptive-damping suspension with Road Preview technology provided a smooth ride, even on imperfect pavement. The new electronic brake booster improved pedal feel and response, making the Navigator a confident performer in various driving conditions. Fuel economy for the 4WD model was rated at 18 mpg combined, and our test drive confirmed this efficiency.

The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban excelled in cargo space, offering 144.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, 93.8 cubic feet with the second row in use, and 41.5 cubic feet behind the third row. Passengers enjoyed ample head- and legroom, with the second-row captain's chairs providing impressive comfort. The control layout was similar to GM's pickup trucks, but the button shifter design was less intuitive. The power-sliding center console was a cumbersome feature, overshadowed by the Suburban's overall spaciousness.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator's interior was a haven of comfort, with 30-way power-adjustable front seats that were heated, ventilated, and massaging. The second-row captain's chairs also offered heating, ventilation, and massaging functions, making long trips enjoyable. The third-row seats were roomy and supportive, thanks to the independent rear suspension. Cargo space was generous, with 19.3 cubic feet behind the third row, 57.5 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 103.3 cubic feet with the second row collapsed. The long-wheelbase Navigator L offered even more cargo space.

The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban came standard with a 10.2-inch touchscreen running GM's intuitive infotainment system, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The available navigation system and rear entertainment system with large touchscreens added convenience. The head-up display provided clear, easy-to-read graphics, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced the new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen, offering a modern and user-friendly interface. The system supported Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and the voice recognition system was improved, though not perfect. The upgraded Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV provided access to popular streaming services. The new 28-speaker Revel 3D audio system delivered exceptional sound quality.

The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban was equipped with automatic emergency braking, forward-collision avoidance with pedestrian detection, automatic high beams, and rear parking sensors. Optional safety features included adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic assist, front parking sensors, and a surround-view camera system. Unique options like the rear-view camera mirror and Safety Alert Seat added to the Suburban's safety offerings.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced several new driver assistance systems, including Intersection Assist, Road Edge Detection, Active Park Assist 2.0, and ActiveGlide. A surround-view camera system became standard. Intersection Assist and Road Edge Detection provided additional safety measures, while Active Park Assist 2.0 and ActiveGlide offered advanced parking and semi-autonomous driving capabilities. ActiveGlide performed well on approved highways, though it required constant driver attention.