2022 Lincoln Navigator vs 2022 INFINITI QX80

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 bore a strong resemblance to the Nissan Armada, sharing its platform, mechanicals, and general layout. This wasn't necessarily a drawback, as both SUVs were considered good-looking. The QX80's size was deemed just right, not too big or too small. Its front-end styling was unique, thanks to the distinctive Infiniti grille, which was prominent but not overdone. LED lighting and conservative use of chrome added to its upscale look, and the 22-inch dark chrome alloy wheels on higher trims further enhanced its exterior appeal.

Inside, the QX80 featured more upscale materials compared to the Armada, though Nissan's design theme was still evident. The Sensory-trim test vehicle boasted tasteful wood trim and attractive quilted semi-aniline Saddle Brown leather seats. However, despite these luxurious touches, the QX80's interior style was seen as outdated. While the cabin was comfortable and upscale, it fell short of the high standards set by its premium full-size SUV competitors.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator underwent subtle styling changes, including new headlights, taillights, and wheel designs, with a 20-inch design becoming standard. The front end was restyled, featuring an Audi-esque grille with Lincoln star and chrome detailing, which some felt reduced its elegance and presence. Despite this, the rest of the updates were successful, making the grille a minor footnote.

Inside, the Navigator continued to impress with quality materials and a mid-century modern design. The new Constellation instrumentation and infotainment display theme added a unique touch, resembling a twilight sky. The updated Sync 4 infotainment system featured a larger 13.2-inch touchscreen, enhancing the Navigator's tech appeal. The Navigator was available in standard and long-wheelbase styles, with the Black Label trim offering luxurious features like heated, ventilated, and massaging second-row captain's chairs. The test vehicle, painted Manhattan Green, had a matching green interior and a total sticker price of $106,530.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 was powered by a robust 400-horsepower, 5.6-liter V8 engine, delivering 413 lb-ft of torque. This engine was one of the QX80's strengths, providing strong performance and a pleasing exhaust note. However, it was also thirsty, with Infiniti recommending premium fuel. The seven-speed automatic transmission offered smooth and seamless shifts, distributing power effectively. The QX80's off-road capability was notable, thanks to its Nissan Patrol-based platform, with 4WD available for an additional $3,100. The SUV had a maximum towing capacity of 8,500 pounds and managed to control body lean well during cornering, thanks to the Hydraulic Body Motion Control system.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator featured a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. This engine provided robust performance and a pleasing note under acceleration. Towing capacity ranged from 8,100 to 8,700 pounds, depending on the configuration. The Navigator's adaptive-damping suspension, updated with Road Preview, handled bumps and imperfections well, even with the heavy 22-inch wheels. The new electronic brake booster improved brake pedal feel and response. The Navigator's 4WD system, combined with 9.7 inches of ground clearance, handled snow and mud effortlessly. Fuel economy for the 4WD model was rated at 18 mpg combined, with the test vehicle averaging 18.6 mpg during the evaluation.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 required a climb to enter, with a step-in height of nearly two feet. Inside, the cabin felt spacious and airy, with good front-seat head- and legroom. Forward visibility was commendable, though the sideview mirrors were a bit small. The power-sliding moonroof was smaller than panoramic designs found in other models. The QX80 could seat up to eight passengers with the optional second-row bench seat, but the third row was cramped for adults. Cargo space was limited compared to competitors, with 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 49.6 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 95.1 cubic feet with all seats folded.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator's front seats were exceptionally comfortable, with 30-way power adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The second-row captain's chairs also offered heating, ventilation, and massage, making long trips comfortable. The third-row seat was roomy and supportive, thanks to the independent rear suspension design. The Navigator offered generous storage and cargo space, with 19.3 cubic feet behind the third row (34.3 cubic feet for the long-wheelbase version), 57.5 cubic feet with the third row folded (73.3 cubic feet for the long-wheelbase version), and a maximum of 103.3 cubic feet (120.2 cubic feet for the long-wheelbase version).

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 featured a new 12.3-inch Infiniti InTouch display, offering Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The display also included navigation with lane guidance and voice recognition. A Bose 13-speaker premium sound system was standard, with a 17-speaker Performance Series Bose system available on the top trim. The QX80 also had a wireless smartphone charger and a dual-screen rear entertainment system. However, it lacked Infiniti's ProPilot Assist advanced driving-assistance system due to its older vehicle systems architecture.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator received a new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen display. The system supported Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and featured a user-friendly interface. Physical controls for volume, stereo tuning, and climate functions were easy to use. The voice recognition system was improved but not perfect. The upgraded Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system included Amazon Fire TV, providing access to streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+. The test vehicle also had a new 28-speaker Revel 3D high-end audio system, delivering exceptional sound quality.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 came with a range of standard safety features, including forward automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring with lane-departure prevention, forward-collision warning, backup collision intervention, a smart rearview mirror, and adaptive cruise control. Additional safety features for 2022 included driver attention alert, front knee airbags, and seat belt pre-tensioners for second-row outboard passengers. The QX80 had not been rated by the NHTSA for 2022, but the structurally similar 2021 model received four stars for overall crash protection.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced several new driver assistance systems, including Intersection Assist, Road Edge Detection, Active Park Assist 2.0, and ActiveGlide. A surround-view camera system was also newly standard. Intersection Assist could automatically brake to prevent unsafe movements, while Road Edge Detection helped steer the SUV away from road edges. Active Park Assist 2.0 allowed the Navigator to park itself, and ActiveGlide provided semi-autonomous, hands-free driving on approved highways. During testing, ActiveGlide performed well but required the driver to remain attentive.