2022 Lincoln Navigator vs 2021 Mazda CX-30

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo was a visual treat for those who appreciated black wheels and sleek design elements. It featured exclusive shiny black 18-inch wheels, a shiny black grille, and side mirror housings, along with thick matte black body cladding. This combination gave the CX-30 Turbo a unique, almost floating appearance, as if it were perpetually cresting a sharp hill. The elevated stance of the CX-30, both perceptually and in reality, set it apart from the Mazda3 hatchback on which it was based. Inside, the cabin mirrored the Mazda3’s upscale vibe with quality materials, complementary tones, and stitched chocolate brown surfaces. Minor updates included a chrome accent around the engine start button and a standard frameless rearview mirror. The price for the 2021 CX-30 Turbo ranged from about $31,000 to $35,745, depending on the trim and options.

In contrast, the 2022 Lincoln Navigator received subtle styling updates, including new headlights, taillights, and a restyled front end with an Audi-esque grille. While the grille design was a rare misstep, the rest of the updates were successful. Inside, the Navigator dazzled 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 display was a significant upgrade, offering ample display acreage. The Navigator continued to be available in standard and long-wheelbase styles with Standard, Reserve, and Black Label trim levels. The starting MSRP was $78,405, with the Black Label trim reaching $106,530.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo featured a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing between 227 and 250 horsepower depending on the fuel octane. Torque was impressive, measuring 310 lb-ft at 2,000 rpm or 320 lb-ft at 2,500 rpm. The six-speed automatic transmission and standard i-Activ all-wheel-drive system contributed to its performance. The CX-30 Turbo’s EPA rating was 25 mpg in combined driving, though real-world testing averaged 24.1 mpg. The SUV’s G-Vectoring Control Plus technology and revised front suspension tuning enhanced driving dynamics, though the added height and weight made it less agile than the Mazda3. The CX-30 Turbo also featured an Off-Road mode, providing confidence in muddy and rough terrains.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator retained its twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. The 10-speed automatic transmission and available four-wheel drive ensured robust performance. Towing capacity ranged from 8,100 to 8,700 pounds, depending on the configuration. The Navigator’s adaptive-damping suspension with Road Preview technology and new electronic brake booster improved ride quality and braking response. Fuel economy for the 4WD model was 18 mpg in combined driving, with real-world testing averaging 18.6 mpg. The Navigator’s performance was impressive, effortlessly handling snowy and muddy conditions, thanks to its 9.7 inches of ground clearance and appropriate driving modes.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo offered exceptional comfort for the driver, with eight-way power adjustment and heated front seats. The cabin’s organic shapes and minimalism contributed to a sense of spaciousness, though the rear seat was cramped for adults. Storage space was generous, but the location of the wireless smartphone charger in the center console storage bin was inconvenient. Cargo space was 20.2 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 45.2 cubic feet with them folded down.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator’s 30-way power-adjustable front seats were exceptionally comfortable, with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The second-row captain’s chairs also offered heating, ventilation, and massage, making long trips enjoyable. The third-row seat provided roomy accommodations, thanks to the independent rear suspension design. Storage and cargo space were generous, with the Navigator L offering up to 120.2 cubic feet of cargo volume with the second-row seats collapsed.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo featured an 8.8-inch infotainment display operated via physical controls and voice commands. While the system required acclimation, it included standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Premium trims added SiriusXM satellite radio, a navigation system, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. The Active Driving Display projected useful data onto the windshield, enhancing safety.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator’s new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen was a significant upgrade. It supported Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, with a user-friendly interface. The voice recognition system was improved, though not perfect. The Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV provided access to popular streaming services. The 28-speaker Revel 3D audio system delivered sensational sound quality.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover resistance rating. It came with a full suite of i-ActiveSense advanced driving assistance systems, including adaptive front lighting, parking sensors, rear automatic braking, a surround-view camera, and Traffic Jam Assist.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced new driver assistance systems, including Intersection Assist, Road Edge Detection, Active Park Assist 2.0, and ActiveGlide. The surround-view camera system was newly standard. ActiveGlide, Lincoln’s semi-autonomous driving technology, performed well on approved highways but required constant driver attention.