2021 Lexus RX vs 2022 Lincoln Navigator

The 2021 Lexus RX showcased a modern design aesthetic that was emblematic of the brand's styling cues. It featured a large grille, angular headlamps, and a shapely body with a floating roof. Inside, the RX offered sumptuous seating with perforated leather upholstery, although the center console design was considered bland and somewhat dated. The RX was available in five variants, including the RX, RX F Sport, RXL, RX Hybrid, and RXL Hybrid, each catering to different preferences, from performance-focused to extended body options with a third row of seating. The exterior boasted standard 18-inch aluminum wheels and LED lighting, with available upgrades like 20-inch wheels and triple-beam LED headlights. The interior was well-appointed, even in the base model, with features like NuLuxe-trimmed seats and a power tilt/telescoping steering wheel, though the infotainment system's design was seen as functional but outdated.

In contrast, the 2022 Lincoln Navigator received subtle styling updates, including new headlights, taillights, and wheel designs, along with a restyled front end. The changes aimed to enhance the SUV's elegance, though the new grille design drew mixed reviews. Inside, the Navigator continued to impress with quality materials and a mid-century modern design, featuring Lincoln's Constellation instrumentation and infotainment display theme. The new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen was a significant upgrade, offering improved functionality and user-friendliness. The Navigator was available in standard and long-wheelbase styles, with trim levels including Standard, Reserve, and Black Label. The Black Label trim, in particular, offered luxurious features like heated, ventilated, and massaging captain's chairs, contributing to a premium driving experience.

The 2021 Lexus RX was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. While the transmission generally performed smoothly, it occasionally struggled to find the right gear under acceleration. The RX's fuel efficiency was commendable, with the FWD RX 350 achieving 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. The RX Hybrid models, equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 and three electric motors, offered 308 horsepower and managed up to 31 mpg in the city. The RX's handling was enhanced by tuning adjustments made in 2020, providing a more dynamic driving experience, especially with the F Sport Handling package, which added adaptive variable suspension and other performance features. The RX's acceleration was respectable, with a 0-60 mph time of 7.7 seconds for the FWD model.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator retained its twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing a robust 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Navigator's towing capacity ranged from 8,100 to 8,700 pounds, depending on the configuration, and it featured Trailer Reverse Guidance technology for easier towing. The SUV's adaptive-damping suspension was updated with Road Preview, which prepared the suspension for road imperfections. The Navigator's performance was impressive, effortlessly handling various driving conditions, including snow and mud, thanks to its 4WD system and 9.7 inches of ground clearance. The Navigator's fuel economy was rated at 18 mpg combined, and during testing, it achieved 18.6 mpg.

The 2021 Lexus RX offered a functional interior with seating for five in the two-row models and six or seven in the three-row RXL variants. Front-seat occupants enjoyed ample space, while the second row was comfortable for adults. However, the third row in the RXL was tight for passengers of any age. Cargo space was limited compared to traditional SUVs, with 18.4 cubic feet behind the second row and 56.3 cubic feet with the seats folded in the two-row models. The three-row RXL provided just 7.5 cubic feet behind the third row and 58.5 cubic feet with all seats folded. A power liftgate was standard, with a hands-free option available.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator excelled in interior comfort, featuring 30-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The second-row captain's chairs were also heated, ventilated, and massaging, providing a luxurious experience. The third row offered roomy accommodations, thanks to the independent rear suspension design. The Navigator's cargo space was generous, with 19.3 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 103.3 cubic feet with the second-row seats folded. The long-wheelbase Navigator L variant offered even more space, with 34.3 cubic feet behind the third row and 120.2 cubic feet with all seats folded.

The 2021 Lexus RX came equipped with a range of standard technology features, including an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a nine-speaker sound system. Upgrades included a 12.3-inch touchscreen, a 15-speaker Mark Levinson surround-sound system, and a panoramic roof. The infotainment system, while functional, was criticized for its dated design and lack of wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Remote Touch controller, designed to minimize touchscreen interaction, was not as refined as competitors' systems.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced a new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen, offering improved functionality and user-friendliness. The system supported Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, with a voice recognition system that performed well in most scenarios. The Navigator also featured an upgraded Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV, providing access to popular streaming services. The test vehicle included a 28-speaker Revel 3D audio system, delivering an exceptional audio experience.

The 2021 Lexus RX received the IIHS Top Safety Pick designation, with Good marks in crashworthiness tests. The NHTSA rated the RX 350, RX 350L, and RX 450h with four out of five stars overall. Standard safety features included a rearview camera, 10 airbags, and Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, which offered a suite of driver-assist technologies. However, the RX lacked the advanced hands-off piloting systems found in some competitors.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced several new driver assistance systems, including Intersection Assist, Road Edge Detection, Active Park Assist 2.0, and ActiveGlide, a semi-autonomous driving technology. ActiveGlide allowed for hands-free driving on approved highways, though driver attention was still required. The Navigator's safety features aimed to enhance driver confidence, though the technology was not infallible and required driver vigilance.