2022 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2023 Lincoln Navigator

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse was a practical choice for those who needed the utility of a minivan but preferred the styling of an SUV. It offered a range of trims starting from the base LS at $33,700, with the High Country trim reaching $53,400. The Traverse featured a modest restyle for 2022, with new headlights, taillights, and grille designs, along with updated color choices. The RS trim, which was tested, included blacked-out trim and 20-inch wheels, giving it a sporty appearance. Inside, the Traverse RS boasted black leather upholstery with contrast stitching, though the use of hard plastics was a downside. The interior was logically laid out, with user-friendly controls for the stereo and climate systems.

In contrast, the 2023 Lincoln Navigator exuded luxury and comfort, with its triple-black Reserve model showcasing a Monochromatic Package that included black 22-inch wheels. The Navigator's cabin was upscale, featuring real wood trim and chrome accents, though some switchgear failed to convey the expected luxury. The test vehicle included a Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system, though it went unused by the teenagers in the back. The Navigator's MSRP reached $104,715, reflecting its premium positioning. Despite its size, the Navigator felt smaller on the road, thanks to excellent outward visibility and impressive grip from its wide tires.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse was powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. It had a tow rating of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped and offered various driving modes, including Tow/Haul, Snow, and Off-Road. The Traverse's V6 engine provided adequate power for its size, though it could whine under acceleration. It achieved an EPA fuel economy rating of 20 mpg in combined driving, with the test vehicle returning 20.9 mpg. The Traverse offered a firm yet compliant ride, though it could scrape the front air dam on larger road anomalies. On the highway, it was a capable cruiser, though road and wind noise were noticeable.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator featured a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque, mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission and 4WD drivetrain. It had an EPA fuel economy rating of 18 mpg in combined driving, with the test vehicle averaging 15.6 mpg. The Navigator offered five driving modes, including Conserve, Normal, and Excite, with an adaptive damping suspension standard. In Excite mode, the Navigator felt more agile, though it impacted fuel efficiency. The Navigator's size was a liability in urban settings, making parking and maneuvering challenging.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse offered seating for seven with its RS trim, featuring captain's chairs in the second row. It included power-adjustable and heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and triple-zone climate control. The Smart Slide function in the second row made accessing the third row easier. The Traverse provided generous legroom and headroom, though the captain's chairs lacked leg support. Cargo space was abundant, with 23 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 98.2 cubic feet with all seats folded. The Traverse also featured hidden storage compartments for added convenience.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator excelled in functionality, with roomy seats in all three rows and an available extended body style for increased cargo space. Power-deploying running boards facilitated entry and exit, while the 30-way Perfect Position front seats offered heating, ventilation, and massage. The Navigator's storage space was generous, with various trays and compartments throughout the cabin. The extended-length Navigator L model provided significantly more cargo space, with 34.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 120.2 cubic feet with all seats folded.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came equipped with a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, depending on the trim. It offered Bluetooth connectivity for two smartphones, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a WiFi hotspot. The Traverse's voice recognition system was responsive and accurate, enhancing the user experience. The RS trim included a digital rearview mirror and a surround-view camera for improved visibility.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator featured a 12-inch digital instrumentation display and a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system with the Sync 4 interface. It included wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM 360L satellite radio, and Alexa Built-in. The Navigator's digital assistant was highly effective, easily handling various commands. The test vehicle also had a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D Audio System, providing exceptional sound quality. The Lincoln Way app allowed owners to use their smartphone as a digital key.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came standard with Chevy Safety Assist, which included forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Additional safety features were available through optional packages, including adaptive cruise control and a rear pedestrian alert system. The Traverse received top "Good" ratings in most IIHS collision tests, though it rated "Acceptable" in a new side-impact test.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator was equipped with Lincoln Co-Pilot360 2.0 and Co-Pilot360 2.0 Drive packages, offering advanced driving assistance systems. These included Evasive Steering Assist, Intersection Assist, and BlueCruise, a hands-free driving assist system. BlueCruise had limitations, struggling with curves and construction zones. The Navigator received a 5-star side-impact protection rating and a 4-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA.