2023 Lincoln Navigator vs 2022 INFINITI QX80

The 2022 INFINITI QX80, with its family resemblance to the Nissan Armada, presented a balanced aesthetic that was neither too large nor too small. Its unique front-end styling, characterized by the distinctive Infiniti grille, set it apart from its sibling. The tasteful integration of LED lighting and conservative use of chrome added an upscale touch, while the 22-inch dark chrome alloy wheels enhanced its exterior appeal. Inside, the QX80's cabin, though furnished with upscale materials like wood trim and quilted semi-aniline leather seats, still bore a resemblance to the Armada's design. Despite its attractive and comfortable interior, the QX80's style was considered somewhat outdated compared to its premium full-size SUV competitors.

In contrast, the 2023 Lincoln Navigator maintained its luxurious appeal without significant updates since its last redesign in 2018. The Navigator Reserve model, with its triple-black exterior and Monochromatic Package, exuded a sophisticated look. The interior, featuring real wood trim and chrome accents, was upscale, though some chrome plastic elements fell short of conveying true luxury. The ambient lighting in the Reserve I package added character to the cabin. Despite its size, the Navigator felt smaller on the road, thanks to excellent outward visibility and impressive grip from its large wheels and tires. However, its substantial curb weight challenged the brakes during mountain descents, and its size proved cumbersome in tight urban spaces.

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 a highlight, offering strong performance and an appealing exhaust note. Paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission, the QX80 provided smooth and seamless power delivery, though it was thirsty for premium fuel. The QX80's off-road capabilities were notable, with a computer-controlled transfer case and ample ground clearance. It could tow up to 8,500 pounds, making it suitable for hauling large trailers or boats. Despite its size, the QX80 managed body lean well, thanks to the Hydraulic Body Motion Control system.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator featured a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and 4WD. It offered five drive modes, including an optional Hill Climb mode with the towing package. The Navigator's adaptive damping suspension, with Road Preview, aimed to enhance ride quality, though it struggled over smaller bumps and dips. In Excite mode, the suspension stiffened, improving handling but reducing fuel efficiency. The Navigator's size was a liability in urban settings, making parking and maneuvering challenging.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 required a climb to enter due to its tall ride height, aided by a grab handle for shorter drivers. Inside, the cabin felt spacious, with good front-seat head- and legroom. The QX80 could seat up to eight passengers, though the third row was cramped for adults. Cargo space was limited compared to competitors, with 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row and 95.1 cubic feet with all seats folded. The power-operated liftgate and third-row seats were slow to operate, but illuminated kick plates and welcome lighting added a premium touch.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator excelled in functionality, offering roomy seats in all three rows and an extended body style for more cargo space. Power-deploying running boards facilitated entry, and the 30-way Perfect Position front seats provided comfort, though they required frequent adjustments. Storage space was generous, with various trays and covers to maintain a clean interior look. The Navigator L model offered significantly more cargo space, making it ideal for carrying both passengers and luggage.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80, though based on an older design, featured a new 12.3-inch Infiniti InTouch display with Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. A Bose 13-speaker sound system was standard, with a 17-speaker system on the Sensory trim. The QX80 lacked Infiniti's ProPilot Assist due to its outdated architecture, but it included a dual-screen rear entertainment system, though HDMI adapters were missing.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator boasted a 12-inch digital instrumentation display, a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and a widescreen head-up display. The Sync 4 system offered wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM 360L, and Alexa Built-in. The digital assistant performed well, and the 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D Audio System provided excellent sound. The Navigator's wireless smartphone charger, however, overheated devices. Lincoln Play offered rear-seat entertainment, though it was underutilized by passengers.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 came with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including forward automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. It also included driver attention alert and front knee airbags. The NHTSA rated the QX80 with three stars for rollover resistance, while the structurally similar 2021 model received four stars for overall crash protection.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator was equipped with Lincoln Co-Pilot360 2.0 and Co-Pilot360 2.0 Drive packages, featuring advanced driving assistance systems like Evasive Steering Assist and Intersection Assist. BlueCruise, a hands-free driving assist system, was available but required frequent driver intervention. The NHTSA rated the Navigator with a 5-star side-impact protection rating and a 4-star rollover resistance rating.