2023 Lincoln Navigator vs 2022 Ford Explorer

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered a diverse lineup with eight models ranging from $33,745 to $54,495, excluding a $1,495 destination charge. The Explorer King Ranch, our test vehicle, featured 4WD, Rapid Red paint, a Premium Technology package, and a twin-panel sunroof, bringing its MSRP to $59,880. Despite its King Ranch emblems and shiny 20-inch wheels, the top-trim Explorer didn't visually stand out from other models. Its rear-drive platform allowed for a sleek, athletic design with a long hood and tapering greenhouse, while the interior boasted exclusive Del Rio leather seating with King Ranch branding. However, the cabin's mix of quality and questionable materials sometimes fell short of its near $60,000 price tag.

In contrast, the 2023 Lincoln Navigator, though not significantly updated since its 2018 redesign, maintained its luxurious appeal. Our test vehicle, a triple-black Navigator Reserve model, featured a Monochromatic Package with black 22-inch wheels and body-color trim, priced at $104,715, including a $1,695 destination charge. The Navigator's interior, adorned with real wood trim and chrome accents, exuded luxury, though the chrome plastic switchgear occasionally detracted from the upscale feel. The cabin's ambient lighting added character, and the Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system, though largely ignored by our teenage passengers, was a notable feature.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered three powertrains, starting with a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and available in RWD or 4WD. This engine provided a towing capacity of 5,300 pounds and up to 24 mpg in combined driving. The hybrid drivetrain, available for the Limited and Platinum trims, combined a 3.3-liter V6 engine for 318 hp and 322 lb-ft of torque, towing up to 5,000 lbs and achieving 27 mpg. The twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, standard on ST, Platinum, and King Ranch trims, delivered 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of 5,600 lbs and 21 mpg. Our King Ranch 4WD test vehicle averaged 20.6 mpg, offering robust power and satisfying acceleration, though the hybrid powertrain was deemed the best blend of power and efficiency.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator featured a sole powertrain: a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine with 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and 4WD. The test vehicle's EPA rating was 18 mpg, but it averaged 15.6 mpg on our testing loop. The Navigator offered five Lincoln Drive Modes, including Conserve, Normal, Excite, Slippery, and Deep Conditions, with an optional Hill Climb mode. The adaptive damping suspension, though standard, failed to deliver a smooth ride, with the Reserve trim's 22-inch wheels contributing to a truck-like feel over bumps. Excite mode improved handling but reduced fuel efficiency. The Navigator's size proved challenging in urban settings, with its nearly three-ton curb weight affecting brake performance on mountain roads.

The 2022 Ford Explorer provided ample comfort for families of four, with the option to carry five with a second-row bench seat. However, its third-row seat was best suited for children due to limited space. The King Ranch model featured triple-zone climate control, power-adjustable heated steering wheel, heated and ventilated front seats, and heated second-row captain's chairs. While the front seats were exceptionally comfortable, the third-row seat was difficult for adults to access. The Explorer's cabin lacked practical storage solutions, though it offered 18.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 87.8 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator excelled in functionality, offering roomy seats in all three rows and an available extended body style for increased cargo space. Power-deploying running boards facilitated cabin access, and the 30-way Perfect Position front seats provided heating, ventilation, and massage. However, the numerous adjustments proved challenging to perfect. The Navigator's storage space was generous, with large trays and covered cupholders. The extended-length Navigator L model offered significantly more cargo space, with up to 120.2 cubic feet available.

The 2022 Ford Explorer featured two versions of the Sync 3 infotainment system, with either an 8-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen. The system included FordPass Connect, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, and a navigation system. The King Ranch model added wireless charging, a surround-view camera, and a 14-speaker Bang and Olufsen sound system. However, the outdated Sync 3 system struggled with voice recognition, highlighting the need for an upgrade to Sync 4.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator, while not boasting about its screens, offered a 12-inch digital instrumentation display, 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and dual-screen Lincoln Play infotainment system. The Sync 4 system included wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM 360L, and Alexa Built-in. The digital assistant excelled in voice recognition, and the 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D Audio System provided exceptional sound quality. However, the wireless smartphone charger caused overheating issues.

The 2022 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, though NHTSA ratings were incomplete. It featured Ford Co-Pilot360 with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and more. Co-Pilot360 Assist+ added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The system operated smoothly, though steering wheel sensitivity was a minor issue.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator came equipped with Lincoln Co-Pilot360 2.0 and Co-Pilot360 2.0 Drive packages, including Evasive Steering Assist, Intersection Assist, and BlueCruise. BlueCruise allowed hands-free driving on designated highways but struggled with curves and sudden lane changes. The Navigator received a 5-star side-impact rating and a 4-star rollover resistance rating from NHTSA.