2021 Lincoln Navigator vs 2022 Volvo XC60

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator was a departure from its predecessors, which often resembled dressed-up Ford Expeditions. While it shared some structural elements with the Expedition, the Navigator distinguished itself with unique design features, including a distinctive turn signal stalk. Its elegance and understated luxury were evident, even on a massive three-ton frame with 22-inch wheels. The exterior design was characterized by simple rectilinear shapes, a body-color grille, and subtle chrome accents, creating a classy appearance. The Pristine White model, with its illuminated Lincoln logo, made a striking impression during winter tests. Inside, the Navigator impressed with its seven color palettes and attention to finer details, such as layered wood trim and a minimalist digital instrument panel. The materials were of high quality, and the Black Label trims offered even more luxurious textures and leather. The Perfect Position seats, with their 30-way adjustability, added to the overall comfort and refinement.

In contrast, the 2022 Volvo XC60 received subtle styling updates, including a new front fascia with "air blades" for a sportier look and a redesigned rear bumper that concealed the tailpipes. The XC60 shared its Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform with other Volvo models, ensuring a solid foundation. The interior retained its clean design, featuring a portrait-oriented touchscreen and minimal clutter. The B6 R-Design test car added flair with aluminum mesh speaker grilles and textured seats, though the overall interior felt somewhat subdued compared to other Volvo models. The Inscription trim level offered Nappa leather upholstery and a leather-wrapped steering wheel for added luxury.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a remarkable twin-turbo V6 engine, borrowed from the Ford Raptor. With 3.5 liters of displacement, it delivered an impressive 450 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque, providing a sprightly performance for a vehicle of its size. The engine's sound, characterized by intake snarl and turbo whoosh, added to the driving experience. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, the Navigator offered both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) options. Its towing capacity was substantial, with 8,300 pounds for 4WD models and 8,700 pounds for RWD models. However, fuel economy was less impressive, averaging in the teens, aligning with the EPA-estimated 17-mpg combined rating. While the Navigator's adaptive dampers were standard, the suspension felt less refined compared to competitors like the Cadillac Escalade. Despite some shortcomings in steering and braking precision, the Navigator excelled in highway refinement and power, with paddle shifters adding a touch of sportiness.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 introduced new B5 and B6 mild-hybrid powertrains, replacing the previous T5 and T6 options. Both powertrains combined a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a 48-volt electrical system and integrated starter generator, providing an additional 13 horsepower in short bursts. The B6 powertrain also featured an electric supercharger. The B5 produced 258 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque, while the B6 delivered 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. Both powertrains used an eight-speed automatic transmission, with the B5 offering front-wheel drive (FWD) and optional all-wheel drive (AWD), while the B6 was AWD-only. Although output was slightly reduced compared to the 2021 model, the XC60 B6 R-Design impressed with its smooth power delivery and calm driving experience. The XC60 Recharge plug-in hybrid offered even more power, with 400 horsepower and 472 pound-feet of torque, achieving a 0-60 mph time of 5 seconds. The Polestar Engineered variant further increased performance with 415 horsepower and 494 pound-feet of torque, reaching 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator offered an expansive interior, akin to a small bedroom, with ample space for six adults. While technically a seven-passenger SUV, the third row's middle seat was best suited for a child. The second row featured manually-reclining and tilting captain's chairs, with an optional bench for a total of eight passengers. Cargo space was generous, with 19 cubic feet behind the third row, 57 behind the second, and 103 in total. The long-wheelbase Navigator L provided even more storage capacity. The rear glass opened separately from the tailgate, adding convenience. The Navigator Reserve model included heated rear second-row seats and a three-zone climate system. However, the lack of side window shades and electrically reclining second-row seats were noted as areas for improvement. The front seats were exceptionally comfortable, with extensive adjustability and massage programs, enhancing the overall driving experience.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 maintained its competitive position in terms of passenger space, with above-average front-seat headroom. However, rear-seat headroom was limited, tying with the Audi Q5 for the lowest in its segment. Legroom in both rows was average. The mild-hybrid models offered 21.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats in place and 49.8 cubic feet with them folded. Plug-in hybrid models had slightly reduced cargo capacity. Despite the somewhat pinched roofline, the XC60 provided good forward and rear visibility, aided by large exterior mirrors. The commanding driving position added to the SUV's appeal.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator featured a 10-inch touchscreen, which felt small compared to newer competitors. While the instrument panel lacked advanced features like full-screen maps, the infotainment system was intuitive, sharing its interface with Ford but with a unique Lincoln skin. Voice recognition was fast and accurate, though there were no onboard apps or wireless software updates. The Navigator included 4G WiFi, wireless device charging, and a smartwatch app, with remote app functions available for five years. The rear entertainment system offered Roku media streaming and various connectivity options. While the technology was straightforward, it lacked the cutting-edge features found in some rivals.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 received a tech overhaul, featuring a 9-inch touchscreen running the Android Automotive operating system. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth, and a built-in WiFi hotspot were included. The system integrated Android-specific features, such as Google Assistant for voice control and Google Maps for navigation. Android users could sync their profiles with the car, and the Google Play Store provided access to third-party apps. Over-the-air software updates were also enabled. While the system offered full iPhone compatibility, Apple users might find the Google-based design less appealing. The digital instrument cluster could display a map or a "Calm" setting to minimize distractions.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator received a five-star overall rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, with five stars in most tests except for rollover resistance. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety had not rated the Navigator in its current generation. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and auto high beams. Adaptive cruise control was optional, though the Navigator's self-steering capabilities were not as advanced as some competitors.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 had not been rated by the IIHS for the 2022 model year, but the 2021 model received the "Top Safety Pick+" rating. The NHTSA had not published ratings for the 2022 model, but the 2021 version received a five-star overall rating. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, and more. New features for 2022 included a Ready to Drive Notification and Emergency Stop Assist. Volvo's Pilot Assist driver-assistance system was available, combining adaptive cruise control and automated lane centering.