2022 Lincoln Navigator vs 2023 Land Rover Defender

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator received subtle styling updates, including new headlights, taillights, and wheel designs, with a standard 20-inch option. The front end was restyled, featuring an Audi-esque grille that some felt diminished the SUV's elegance. Despite this, the rest of the updates were well-received, maintaining the Navigator'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, keeping it competitive in the luxury SUV market.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender, with its boxy design reminiscent of the old LR4, was a hit among customers, outselling the Land Rover Discovery by more than four to one. The Defender's design was consistent and classic, with square-jawed features and steep angles. Tasteful accents paid homage to the original 1980s Defender, and the vehicle was available in three body styles: 90, 110, and 130. The interior, while functional and durable, lacked the opulence of other luxury SUVs, sticking to a mission of practicality. Despite its high price, the Defender's build quality and fit were excellent, maintaining its hardcore character.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, offered a robust performance, with a towing capacity ranging from 8,100 to 8,700 pounds. The Navigator's adaptive-damping suspension, updated with Road Preview, provided a smooth ride, even on imperfect pavement. The new electronic brake booster improved brake pedal feel and response. During testing, the Navigator handled various driving conditions effortlessly, including snow and mud, thanks to its four-wheel drive and 9.7 inches of ground clearance. The Navigator 4WD achieved an average fuel economy of 18.6 mpg during the test drive.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender excelled off-road, with impressive grip, wheel articulation, and clearance. The Defender's turbocharged inline-six and supercharged V8 engines provided strong performance, with the V8 producing 518 horsepower and 461 pound-feet of torque. The six-cylinder engine, part of a mild hybrid powertrain, offered 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. The Defender's on-road performance was less impressive, with excessive body roll, slow steering, and noticeable wind noise. The V8 model's fuel economy was poor, rated at 14/19/16 mpg, while the six-cylinder achieved 18/23/20 mpg. Despite its shortcomings, the Defender's engines and off-road capabilities made it a formidable vehicle.

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 for rear passengers. The third-row seat was roomy and supportive, making the Navigator a great choice for families. Cargo space was generous, 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 collapsed. The long-wheelbase Navigator L offered even more space, with 34.3, 73.3, and 120.2 cubic feet, respectively.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender offered unmatched seating configurations, with the Defender 90 seating six with a jump seat, the 110 offering an optional third row, and the 130 seating up to eight. The third row in the 130 included a separate moonroof, air vents, cupholders, USB ports, and armrests. Cargo space varied by model, with the 130 offering 77 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded, and the 110 providing up to 79 cubic feet. The Defender's versatility extended to its off-road capabilities, with options for off-road or all-season tires, a metal roof rack, and various accessories for outdoor adventures.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator featured a new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen display, offering a modern and user-friendly interface. The system supported Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and included a voice recognition system that, while not perfect, was an improvement over the previous model. The upgraded Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system included Amazon Fire TV, providing access to popular streaming services. The test vehicle also featured a 28-speaker Revel 3D audio system, delivering an exceptional audio experience.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender came with two touchscreen infotainment systems running Pivi Pro software. The standard 10-inch screen and optional 11.4-inch touchscreen were both quick and easy to operate. The Defender included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a voice assistant, and connected apps. Higher trims offered additional features such as heated 12-way power seats, a Meridian stereo, adaptive cruise control, and a head-up display. The X trim included air suspension, a locking rear differential, and an upgraded Terrain Response 2 system.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced several new driver assistance systems, including Intersection Assist, Road Edge Detection, Active Park Assist 2.0, and ActiveGlide. A surround-view camera system was also newly standard. ActiveGlide, Lincoln's semi-autonomous driving technology, performed well during testing but required the driver to remain attentive. The Navigator's safety features aimed to enhance driver confidence and convenience.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender had not been rated by U.S. safety organizations but received a five-star rating in Euro NCAP crash testing. Standard safety features included lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. Optional features included a digital instrument panel, head-up display, and a 360-degree camera system. The Defender's safety equipment was comprehensive, though it lacked some advanced features like a self-steering highway assist.