2022 Lincoln Navigator vs 2023 Acura RDX

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator received subtle styling updates, including new headlights, taillights, and wheel designs, with a standard 20-inch design. The front end was restyled, featuring an Audi-esque grille that some felt reduced the Navigator's elegance and presence. Despite this, the rest of the updates were well-received, maintaining the SUV's luxurious appeal. Inside, the Navigator dazzled with quality materials and a mid-century modern design, highlighted by the new Constellation instrumentation and infotainment display theme. The new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen added to the vehicle's modern feel.

The 2023 Acura RDX stood out with its sharp, angular style, though it remained conventional enough to blend in. The signature Acura grille, flanked by sleek wraparound headlights, gave the front a sporty and aggressive look. The side featured a distinctive character line, while the rear was more conventional. Inside, the RDX had a vertical cockpit layout with a center stack of controls flowing into the center console. The 10.2-inch infotainment display and digital center display with analog gauges emphasized Acura's focus on performance. The interior, while not as modern as some rivals, offered a familiar and user-friendly design.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. It came with a 10-speed automatic transmission and offered rear-wheel drive (RWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD). The Navigator's towing capacity ranged from 8,100 to 8,700 pounds, depending on the configuration. The adaptive-damping suspension with Road Preview and the new electronic brake booster improved ride quality and braking response. The Navigator's fuel economy was rated at 18 mpg combined, and it averaged 18.6 mpg during testing.

The 2023 Acura RDX featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. It was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and came standard with front-wheel drive (FWD), with all-wheel drive (AWD) available. The RDX accelerated to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds, offering a sporty yet comfortable ride. The handling was confident, with well-managed body roll and a smooth ride over road imperfections. The RDX's performance was complemented by a firm brake pedal and a responsive transmission.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator's interior was exceptionally comfortable, with 30-way power-adjustable front seats that were heated, ventilated, and massaging. The second-row captain's chairs were also heated, ventilated, and massaging, providing a luxurious experience. The third-row seat offered roomy accommodations, making the Navigator a great choice for large families. Cargo space was generous, with 19.3 cubic feet behind the third row, 57.5 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 103.3 cubic feet with the second row collapsed.

The 2023 Acura RDX provided ample space for front-seat passengers, with additional power adjustments in the top trims. The rear seats comfortably accommodated average-sized adults, though taller passengers might find headroom limited. The panoramic sunroof enhanced the cabin's open feel. Cargo space was competitive, with 31.1 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 79.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The RDX also featured a deep bin under the cargo floor and various storage options for smaller items.

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

The 2023 Acura RDX's infotainment system used a touchpad controller, which was challenging to use, especially while driving. The dashtop display was not a touchscreen, making the touchpad the primary control method. The system was easier to use with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, but it remained one of the least user-friendly interfaces. The RDX came standard with a Wi-Fi hotspot and remote monitoring via the Acuralink app. The top trim featured a 16-speaker ELS audio system with excellent sound quality.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced several 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 constant driver attention. The system represented a step toward fully autonomous driving but still required human oversight.

The 2023 Acura RDX received top safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keep assist. The Technology package added parking sensors, while the Advance package included a surround-view camera system and a head-up display. The adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist worked well, though the latter was better suited for straight highways.