2022 INFINITI QX60 vs 2021 Lincoln Navigator

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator had a distinct presence, shedding its past resemblance to the Ford Expedition. It shared some structural elements with the Expedition, but the Navigator stood out with its unique design and luxurious feel. The exterior was defined by simple rectilinear shapes, a body-color grille, and a few chrome accents, giving it an elegant yet understated look. The Pristine White model with black wheels and an illuminated Lincoln logo was particularly striking during winter tests. Inside, the Navigator impressed with its seven color palettes, layered wood trim, and minimalist digital instrument panel. The materials were high-quality, and the Black Label trims offered even more luxurious textures and softer leather.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 underwent a complete makeover, featuring a new exterior design, interior, powertrains, and technologies. The exterior changes resulted in a dramatic and attractive crossover SUV with a prominent grille, slim LED headlights, and oversized air intakes. The long hood and steeply-raked windshield added elegance, while the blacked-out pillars created a floating roof effect. The Autograph trim level enhanced this effect with a contrasting black roof. Inside, the QX60 felt wide and open, with quilted leather upholstery on the Autograph trim level. The 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display was well-placed, and the TFT instrument panel provided crisp graphics. The build quality was high, as expected from Infiniti.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a twin-turbo V6 engine, producing 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, made the Navigator feel sprightly despite its size. The 4WD system was smooth and responsive, and the towing capacity was impressive at 8,300 pounds for 4WD models and 8,700 pounds for RWD models. However, fuel economy was poor, averaging in the teens, which aligned with the EPA-estimated 17-mpg combined rating. The adaptive dampers provided a decent ride, but the suspension felt rudimentary compared to competitors. The steering and brakes were looser and softer, respectively, but the Navigator's low-end thrust and quiet cabin made it a refined and powerful highway cruiser.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 295 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. The new nine-speed automatic transmission replaced the previous CVT, providing a superior driving experience with clean and crisp shifts. The suspension, with MacPherson struts up front and an independent multilink setup in the rear, delivered a smooth and serene ride. The fuel economy was decent, with EPA estimates of 21 mpg city/26 mpg highway/23 mpg combined for FWD models and 20 mpg city/25 mpg highway/22 mpg combined for AWD models. The QX60 handled well for a large crossover, with good steering feel and minimal body roll, but it was not designed for aggressive cornering. The focus was on comfort and refinement, making it ideal for highway and suburban driving.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator offered ample interior space, with seating for up to eight passengers. The boxy shape provided generous cargo space, with 19 cubic feet behind the third row, 57 cubic feet behind the second row, and 103 cubic feet in total. The long-wheelbase Navigator L offered even more storage. The rear glass opened separately from the tailgate, adding convenience. The second-row seats were heated and had a three-zone climate control system, but they lacked electric reclining and other advanced features found in competitors. The front seats were highly adjustable and comfortable, with numerous settings and massage programs. Visibility was excellent, but parking was challenging due to the vehicle's size.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 catered to passengers with ample storage, charging ports, and comfort features. The front center console had a cubby for smartphones, cupholders, and covered storage. The second-row seats slid on rails for easy access to the third row, which was roomy enough for adults. The QX60 offered 14.5 cubic feet of luggage space behind the third row, 41.6 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 75.4 cubic feet with both rows folded. The towing capacity was 3,500 pounds, expandable to 6,000 pounds with the towing package. The interior was well-designed, with thoughtful storage solutions and comfortable seating for all passengers.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator featured a 10-inch touchscreen, which felt small compared to newer models. The infotainment system was intuitive, but it lacked wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 20-speaker Revel Ultima stereo was good but not exceptional. The Navigator offered onboard 4G WiFi, wireless device charging, and a smartwatch app. The rear entertainment system included Roku media streaming and various connections. The drive modes displayed beautiful animations on the instrument panel, and the overall simplicity of the technology was a relief compared to more complex systems.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 came with a 12.3-inch InTouch Interactive display, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto. An AT&T WiFi hotspot was standard, capable of connecting up to seven devices. The QX60 had six USB charge points, with seven in higher trims, and a wireless charging pad was standard on Sensory and Autograph models. The navigation system, powered by TomTom, was standard in all but the base trim. The QX60 also featured a color 10.8-inch head-up display, a smart rearview mirror, and a 17-speaker Bose Performance series sound system in higher trims. The technology was advanced and user-friendly, with a focus on connectivity and convenience.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator received five stars overall from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, with four stars for rollover resistance in 4WD models and three stars in RWD models. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety had not rated the Navigator in its current generation. The Navigator offered automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and auto high beams as standard features. Adaptive cruise control was optional, but the Navigator's self-steering capabilities were not as advanced as some competitors.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but the previous generation received high marks. The QX60 came with a comprehensive set of standard safety features, including multiple airbags, LATCH connectors, and advanced driver assistance systems. ProPilot Assist was standard on all but the base trim, and additional features like blind-spot intervention, lane-departure warning, and an around-view monitor were available. The QX60's safety features were extensive and designed to provide maximum protection for all occupants.