2022 Lincoln Navigator vs 2023 Genesis GV80

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator underwent subtle styling changes, including new headlights, taillights, and wheel designs, with a standard 20-inch design. The front end was restyled, featuring an Audi-esque grille with Lincoln's star and chrome detailing, which some felt reduced its elegance. Despite this, the Navigator's updates were largely successful, with the interior continuing to impress with quality materials and a mid-century modern design. The new Constellation instrumentation and infotainment display theme added a celestial touch, while the upgraded Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen kept the Navigator competitive in the screen size race. The Navigator was available in standard and long-wheelbase styles, with trim levels including Standard, Reserve, and Black Label, starting at $78,405. The Black Label model, tested in a Central Park theme, featured a green interior and second-row captain's chairs, with a total price of $106,530.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 exuded sophistication with its quad-lamp headlights and bold grille, presenting a stately midsize SUV just over 16 feet long. Standard 19-inch wheels were upgraded to 22-inch alloys in the Prestige trim, enhancing its elegant appearance. The rear echoed the quad lamp look with four-part taillamps above dual exhausts. Inside, the dark green quilted leather seats complemented the exterior, with a dash split by thin air vents and adorned with metal and matte wood trim. The center console featured three large dials for infotainment, transmission, and drive modes, while the two-spoke steering wheel added a unique touch. The 14.5-inch infotainment screen, though slightly awkwardly placed, offered a spacious and luxurious interior, making it a pleasant space to spend time.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator retained its twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque through a 10-speed automatic transmission. Available in rear-wheel or four-wheel drive, it offered a towing capacity between 8,100 and 8,700 pounds, depending on configuration. The adaptive-damping suspension with Road Preview technology improved ride quality by preparing for road imperfections. Despite its nearly three-ton weight, the Navigator handled various terrains, including snow and mud, with ease, thanks to its 9.7 inches of ground clearance and appropriate driving modes. The Navigator 4WD achieved an average fuel economy of 18.6 mpg during testing.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 offered all-wheel drive with a choice between a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, or a turbo 3.5-liter V6 with 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. While not particularly quick, the GV80 excelled in highway driving, with smooth power delivery and an electronically controlled suspension that adjusted for road conditions. Active noise cancellation further enhanced the quiet and comfortable ride, making it ideal for long commutes.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator featured exceptionally comfortable 30-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The second-row captain's chairs also offered heating, ventilation, and massage, enhancing passenger comfort. The third-row seat provided roomy accommodations, maintaining its reputation for comfort. The Navigator offered generous storage and cargo space, with up to 103.3 cubic feet of cargo volume in the standard model and 120.2 cubic feet in the long-wheelbase version.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 boasted luxury touches, including heated front seats and a heated steering wheel as standard, with ventilated front and rear seats in the tested model. The Ergo Motion driver's seat featured inflatable pockets to reduce fatigue. While a third row was available, its limited legroom made it suitable only for children. The GV80 offered a tri-zone climate control system, a 21-speaker stereo system, and a panoramic glass roof. Cargo space was ample, with 34.9 cubic feet behind the second row and 84 cubic feet with the seats folded. The GV80's towing capacity was 6,000 pounds with trailer brakes.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced a new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen, offering improved functionality and ease of use. The system supported Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, with a voice recognition system that showed promise but required further refinement. The upgraded Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system included Amazon Fire TV, providing access to popular streaming services. The 28-speaker Revel 3D audio system delivered exceptional sound quality.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 12.3-inch 3D digital gauge cluster. While the infotainment screen was slightly out of reach, the dial control offered a tactile experience. The system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though not wirelessly, and provided wireless charging and multiple USB ports. The GV80's remote smart parking assist allowed for maneuvering in tight spaces without the driver in the car, adding convenience to its technological offerings.

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, a semi-autonomous driving technology, allowed for hands-free driving on approved highways, though it required driver attention. While the system performed well, it highlighted the need for continued driver vigilance.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 came equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The blind-spot video feed in the digital gauge cluster provided enhanced visibility. Highway Drive Assist offered hands-on/eyes-up driving aid, with automatic lane changes and speed adjustments. The GV80 received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and high marks from the IIHS, though its headlights and LATCH system were rated as Acceptable.