2022 Lincoln Navigator vs 2023 Honda Pilot

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 that some felt diminished 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 to the interior, enhancing the overall luxurious feel. The introduction of the Sync 4 infotainment system with a larger 13.2-inch touchscreen display kept the Navigator competitive in the screen size race.

In contrast, the 2023 Honda Pilot was fully redesigned with a more rugged and substantial appearance. It grew in size, with a 3.4-inch increase in length, up to 1.5 inches in width, and 0.8 inches in height. These changes complemented the all-terrain-capable TrailSport model, which gained legitimate off-road parts like a taller ride height and underbody skid plates. The interior took a more conventional styling route, remaining attractive and functional. The Pilot emphasized function over form, offering a tidy and utilitarian aesthetic that appealed to those seeking practicality without sacrificing style.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. It came with a 10-speed automatic transmission and offered rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. The Navigator's towing capacity ranged from 8,100 to 8,700 pounds, depending on the configuration. The adaptive-damping suspension with Road Preview technology enhanced ride quality by preparing for road imperfections. The Navigator's electronic brake booster improved brake pedal feel, and its four-wheel drive, 9.7 inches of ground clearance, and appropriate driving modes ensured confident handling in various conditions. The Navigator 4WD achieved an average fuel economy of 18.6 mpg during testing.

The 2023 Honda Pilot featured an all-new 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a new 10-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available on all models and standard on the Elite and TrailSport trims. The Pilot offered quick acceleration and a pleasant engine note, though it prioritized comfort over sporty driving. The TrailSport model increased ground clearance by an inch and added all-terrain tires, enhancing its off-road capabilities. Despite its off-road prowess, the Pilot maintained on-road composure and comfort, making it a versatile family SUV.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator's interior boasted heated, ventilated, and massaging 30-way power-adjustable front seats, providing exceptional comfort. The second-row captain's chairs offered similar features, and the third-row seat remained spacious and supportive. The Navigator excelled in storage and cargo space, with 19.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 103.3 cubic feet with the second row folded. The long-wheelbase Navigator L offered even more cargo capacity.

The 2023 Honda Pilot's interior was more conventional, with a handy dash shelf for the front passenger. The entry-level trims featured a seven-inch infotainment touchscreen, while higher trims upgraded to a nine-inch display. The Pilot offered clever storage solutions, including a stowable second-row center seat and ample space for adults in the second row. The third row was less accommodating but suitable for short trips. Cargo capacity reached 22.4 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 114.3 cubic feet with the second row folded.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced a new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen display, offering improved functionality and user-friendly controls. The system supported Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, with voice recognition capabilities. The upgraded Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system featured Amazon Fire TV, providing access to popular streaming services. The 28-speaker Revel 3D audio system delivered exceptional sound quality.

The 2023 Honda Pilot's EX-L trim and above offered a larger infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless phone charger. Higher trims included a multi-view camera system, head-up display, and digital instrument panel. The infotainment system was responsive and user-friendly, with features like Honda's CabinTalk and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The TrailSport and Elite trims added the TrailWatch camera system for enhanced off-road awareness.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced new driver assistance systems, including Intersection Assist, Road Edge Detection, Active Park Assist 2.0, and ActiveGlide. A surround-view camera system became standard. ActiveGlide, a semi-autonomous driving technology, performed well on approved highways but required driver attention. The system represented a step toward fully autonomous driving but highlighted the need for driver vigilance.

The 2023 Honda Pilot received a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. Standard Honda Sensing safety features included forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and more. Higher trims added low-speed automatic braking and parking sensors. The Pilot's safety features functioned effectively, with adaptive cruise control providing smooth operation. Off-road settings required disabling some proximity warnings to prevent false alarms.