2021 INFINITI QX50 vs 2022 Lincoln Navigator

The 2021 INFINITI QX50 made a notable impression in the luxury compact crossover segment with its engineering prowess, particularly due to its VC-Turbo engine. Its design, while subjective, was distinctive, featuring a large honeycomb grille and a sporty, curved hood. The vehicle's rear showcased a unique chrome strip, adding character to its appearance. Inside, the QX50 offered a luxurious cabin with soft-touch materials, aluminum trim, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The front seats provided heating and cooling, enhancing comfort in varying weather conditions. However, visibility was slightly compromised by thick B-pillars and a short rear window. Despite these minor issues, the QX50's aesthetics were generally well-received.

In contrast, the 2022 Lincoln Navigator underwent subtle styling changes, including new headlights, taillights, and wheel designs. The front end, however, received mixed reviews due to its Audi-esque grille. Inside, the Navigator continued to impress with high-quality materials and a mid-century modern design. The new Sync 4 infotainment system, with a 13.2-inch touchscreen, enhanced the vehicle's technological appeal. The Navigator's adaptive-damping suspension and electronic brake booster improved ride quality and braking response. The SUV's twin-turbo V6 engine delivered 440 horsepower, providing robust performance and a towing capacity of up to 8,700 pounds. Overall, the Navigator's updates were well-received, despite the minor misstep with the grille design.

The 2021 INFINITI QX50 featured a single powertrain option: a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). This setup produced 268 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. The QX50's VC-Turbo engine was unique, offering a balance of power and efficiency by adjusting the compression ratio. While the engine operated smoothly and quietly, the CVT's artificial shift points aimed to mimic a conventional automatic transmission. The QX50 offered front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available for an additional cost. The vehicle's drive mode selector allowed for customization of engine torque, transmission shift points, and steering effort, with Sport mode providing the most engaging driving experience.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator retained its twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, the Navigator offered rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive options. The SUV's towing capacity ranged from 8,100 to 8,700 pounds, depending on configuration. The Navigator's adaptive-damping suspension, equipped with Road Preview technology, enhanced ride quality by preparing for road imperfections. The new electronic brake booster improved brake pedal feel and response. During testing, the Navigator demonstrated impressive performance, effortlessly handling various driving conditions, including snow and mud. The SUV's fuel economy was rated at 18 mpg in combined driving.

The 2021 INFINITI QX50 offered a spacious interior, with ample hip and shoulder room in both the front and rear seats. The panoramic moonroof did not compromise headroom, and rear-seat passengers enjoyed 38.7 inches of legroom. The sliding second-row seats allowed for flexibility in maximizing legroom or cargo space. The cargo area provided 31.1 cubic feet of space behind the second-row seats, expanding to 64.4 cubic feet with the seats folded. The QX50 was equipped with numerous storage options, including cupholders, storage bins, and charging ports.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator continued to impress with its comfortable and adjustable 30-way power front seats. The second-row captain's chairs offered heating, ventilation, and massage functions, enhancing passenger comfort. The third-row seats provided ample space and support, making them suitable for adults. The Navigator's cargo space was generous, with 19.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 57.5 cubic feet with the third row folded. The long-wheelbase Navigator L offered even more cargo capacity, with a maximum of 120.2 cubic feet.

The 2021 INFINITI QX50 featured the InTouch infotainment system with dual display screens, offering voice recognition and a suite of connected services. The system supported Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, with a 16-speaker Bose audio system providing excellent sound quality. The QX50 also included ProPilot Assist, an advanced driving assistance system combining adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced the Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen, supporting Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The system offered user-friendly controls and voice recognition, with the ability to save personalized settings. The upgraded Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system included Amazon Fire TV, providing access to popular streaming services. The Navigator also featured a 28-speaker Revel 3D audio system, delivering exceptional sound quality.

The 2021 INFINITI QX50 boasted a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including blind-spot warning, forward-collision warning, and lane-departure warning. The QX50 received favorable ratings from the IIHS for crash protection and front crash prevention. The NHTSA awarded the QX50 four out of five stars for rollover resistance.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced new driver assistance systems, such as Intersection Assist, Road Edge Detection, and Active Park Assist 2.0. The SUV also featured ActiveGlide, a semi-autonomous driving technology. While ActiveGlide performed well in testing, it required driver attention at all times. The Navigator's safety features aimed to enhance driver confidence and convenience.