2022 Acura RDX vs 2021 Lincoln Navigator

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator was a testament to elegance and understatement, a feat not easily achieved by a three-ton SUV. While it shared some design elements with the Ford Expedition, the Navigator stood out with its unique features, such as the body-color grille and illuminated Lincoln logo. Its Pristine White exterior, complemented by black wheels, made it a striking presence during winter tests. Inside, the Navigator impressed with its seven color palettes and modern design elements like the floating center console and minimalist digital instrument panel. The materials used were of high quality, and the Black Label trims offered even more luxurious textures and softer leather.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura RDX featured subtle styling changes inspired by its larger sibling, the MDX. The RDX's design updates included a revised grille surround, new bumper styling, and updated wheel designs. The limited-production PMC Edition, with its exclusive Long Beach Blue Pearl paint, added a touch of exclusivity. Inside, the RDX offered a sporty driving position and a unique control layout, including the True Touchpad Interface infotainment system. The interior materials were of high quality, and the RDX provided a quieter ride than previous models, thanks to enhanced sound insulation.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a formidable twin-turbo V6 engine, borrowed from the Ford Raptor, producing 450 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, delivered impressive acceleration and a satisfying engine note. The Navigator's 4WD system was smooth and responsive, offering a towing capacity of up to 8,700 pounds. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, averaging in the teens, with an EPA-estimated 17 mpg combined. The Navigator's adaptive dampers provided a decent ride, but it lacked the refinement of competitors like the Cadillac Escalade.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, generating 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. This engine, combined with a 10-speed automatic transmission, offered a lively driving experience. The RDX's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system provided excellent traction and handling, especially on winding roads. The RDX's fuel economy was slightly better, averaging 20.6 mpg during testing. The revised Integrated Dynamics System and adaptive-damping suspension improved ride comfort and responsiveness, making the RDX a well-rounded performer.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator offered a spacious interior, capable of accommodating six adults comfortably. Its boxy shape provided ample cargo space, with 19 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 103 cubic feet in total. The Navigator's front seats were highly adjustable and luxurious, offering a range of features like massage programs and separate thigh extensions. However, parking the Navigator was challenging due to its size, despite the presence of 360-degree cameras.

The 2022 Acura RDX, while a compact SUV, provided sufficient space for four adults and their luggage. The interior featured a standard panoramic sunroof and a sporty design. The RDX's control layout required some acclimation, but the standard 12-way power-adjustable front seats were comfortable and supportive. The rear seats, however, lacked support and comfort for adults. The RDX offered 29.5 cubic feet of cargo space, with additional hidden storage compartments beneath the load floor.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator's technology felt somewhat dated, with a 10-inch touchscreen and a lack of wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 20-speaker Revel Ultima stereo was good but not exceptional. However, the Navigator offered intuitive software, voice recognition, and features like onboard 4G WiFi and wireless device charging. The rear entertainment system included Roku media streaming and various connectivity options.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, which required a learning curve due to its unique touchpad controller. However, the RDX included Amazon Alexa Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad. The RDX offered three premium sound systems, with the top-tier ELS Studio 3D surround-sound audio system providing an impressive audio experience. The RDX also included a 10.5-inch head-up display in higher trims.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with four stars for rollover resistance in 4WD models. It offered standard safety features like automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. However, adaptive cruise control was optional, and the Navigator lacked knee airbags.

The 2022 Acura RDX aimed to maintain its Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS with structural upgrades for improved side-impact safety. It introduced new safety features like a rear seatbelt reminder system and enhanced AcuraWatch driver-assist systems. The RDX received a five-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA, with four-star frontal-impact and rollover resistance ratings.