2022 Lincoln Navigator vs 2022 Kia Sorento

The 2022 Kia Sorento, especially with the X-Line treatment, was a stylish midsize SUV that commanded attention. Rugged bumpers, matte-finish wheels, black lower body cladding, a lifted suspension, and robust roof rails added a sense of purpose to its already attractive design. Our test vehicle, equipped with the X-Line package, featured all-wheel drive as standard and came with extra-cost Wolf Gray paint, Rust-colored leather, floor mats, and a cargo net, bringing the total MSRP to $45,310, including the $1,215 destination charge. Even without spending that much, the Sorento exuded quality, from its leather upholstery and simulated wood trim to the solid feel of its door releases and transmission shifter.

In contrast, the 2022 Lincoln Navigator received subtle styling updates, including new headlights, taillights, and wheel designs, with a 20-inch design now standard. The front end was restyled, featuring an Audi-esque grille that some felt reduced its elegance. Inside, the Navigator dazzled with quality materials and a mid-century modern design, highlighted by Lincoln’s Constellation instrumentation and infotainment display theme. The new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen display and a 28-speaker Revel 3D audio system added to its appeal. The Navigator continued to offer standard and long-wheelbase styles with a starting MSRP of $78,405, including the $1,695 destination charge.

The 2022 Kia Sorento's base engine was a 191-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder, which took nearly 9.5 seconds to reach 60 mph. This sluggish performance made the turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder, generating 281 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque, a more appealing option. This engine, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automated manual transmission, powered the front wheels or an optional torque-vectoring AWD system. With AWD, the turbo Sorento could reach 60 mph in about 7.5 seconds. Despite the X-Line’s raised suspension, the Sorento drove more like a sports sedan, offering a blend of compliance and composure. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, averaging 20.7 mpg during our week-long test.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator retained its twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and available in RWD or 4WD. This powertrain allowed the Navigator to tow between 8,100 and 8,700 pounds, depending on the configuration. The adaptive-damping suspension with Road Preview and a new electronic brake booster improved ride quality and braking response. During our test drive from Scottsdale to Payson, the Navigator handled snow and mud effortlessly, thanks to its 4WD, 9.7 inches of ground clearance, and appropriate driving modes. The Navigator averaged 18.6 mpg, slightly better than the EPA’s combined rating of 18 mpg.

The 2022 Kia Sorento’s interior felt luxurious, with 14-way power-adjustable driver’s seats, 10-way power-adjustable front passenger seats, and heated and ventilated front seats. The second-row captain’s chairs, standard from EX trim, were heated in the SX Prestige X-Line. However, the third-row seat was cramped and uncomfortable for adults. Cargo space was limited to 12.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 38.5 cubic feet with the third row folded and 75.5 cubic feet with the second row down. The smart power tailgate was a convenient feature, though it could open unintentionally.

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, now with massaging, heating, and ventilation, provided a luxurious experience. The third-row seat remained 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, 57.5 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 103.3 cubic feet with the second row down. The long-wheelbase Navigator L provided even more cargo space.

Starting in 2022, the Kia Sorento featured a 10.25-inch touchscreen display with navigation, satellite radio, Kia Connect services, and both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, except for the base LX trim, which retained an 8-inch screen. The infotainment system was intuitive but had a unique design that might not appeal to everyone. The SX Prestige X-Line included a 12-speaker Bose premium surround-sound system, while wireless smartphone charging was standard from EX trim.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced the Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen display, offering a user-friendly interface and support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The system featured physical controls for volume, stereo tuning, and climate functions, making it easy to use. The voice recognition system was improved but not perfect. The upgraded Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system, now with Amazon Fire TV, provided access to popular streaming services. The 28-speaker Revel 3D audio system delivered an exceptional listening experience.

The 2022 Kia Sorento came standard with Kia Drive Wise, offering a range of safety features depending on the trim level. Our test vehicle included a rear-seat reminder system, Junction Assist, Blind View Monitor, Intelligent Speed Limit Assist, and Highway Driving Assist. The Sorento received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, with the highest rating for its LED headlights on the SX and SX Prestige trims. The NHTSA awarded the Sorento a four-star overall crash-test rating.

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 became standard. ActiveGlide, Lincoln’s semi-autonomous driving technology, performed well on approved highways but required the driver’s attention. These systems represented steps toward fully autonomous driving but still required responsible driving.