2022 Lincoln Navigator vs 2023 Lexus GX

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator underwent subtle styling changes, including new headlights, taillights, and wheel designs, with a 20-inch design becoming standard. The front end was restyled, featuring an Audi-esque grille that some felt reduced the vehicle's elegance. Despite this, the Navigator's updates were generally well-received, maintaining its 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 display added to the vehicle's modern feel.

The 2023 Lexus GX, with its massive spindle grille and 8.1 inches of ground clearance, had a commanding presence. The GX Black Line Special Edition returned with limited availability and exclusive paint colors. Despite its luxury badge, the GX's interior featured a disappointing amount of plastic, reflecting its low sales volume and the need for cost-effective manufacturing. However, it still offered luxury touches like heated and cooled front seats and impressive leather upholstery. The GX's design leaned sleeker compared to Toyota's blocky designs, making it easier to handle in technical driving situations.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator featured a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. It offered rear-wheel drive (RWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD) options. 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 a new electronic brake booster improved ride quality and braking response. The Navigator's fuel economy was rated at 18 mpg combined, and it performed well in various driving conditions, including snow and mud.

The 2023 Lexus GX was defined by its naturally aspirated 4.6-liter V8 engine, delivering 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque through a six-speed automatic transmission. While it didn't excel on paper compared to modern engines, the V8 provided a satisfying driving experience. The GX's towing capacity was 6,500 pounds, and its fuel economy was rated at 15 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined. The GX's weight affected its handling, but it remained predictable and controllable. The Torsen torque-sensing limited-slip differential and 4WD system enhanced its off-road capabilities.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator's interior 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 options. The third-row seat provided roomy accommodations. The Navigator's 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 cargo space.

The 2023 Lexus GX retained ample cubby space for small items, with a deep center console bin and convenient cupholders. The physical controls, including hard buttons, were user-friendly. The center console lid's sliding mechanisms allowed for adjustable armrests. The second-row captain's chairs were comfortable, but the third row was too tight for regular use. The GX's cargo space was limited, with 11.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 46.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 64.7 cubic feet with both rows folded.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced a new 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 included physical controls for volume and climate functions. The voice recognition system was improved but not perfect. 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 Lexus GX's 10.3-inch touchscreen was an improvement over the previous system, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. The Lexus Remote Touch Interface was still present but unnecessary due to the improved touchscreen. The GX included three years of Lexus Enform Remote and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson premium stereo. However, the infotainment system lagged behind newer Lexus models, with slower response times and less crisp graphics. The GX excelled in off-road technology, with a real 4WD system, Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System, and an Off-Road Package.

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 became standard. ActiveGlide, Lincoln's semi-autonomous driving technology, performed well on approved highways but required driver attention. The Navigator's safety features aimed to enhance driving convenience and safety.

The 2023 Lexus GX had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS, but it included advanced driver assistance systems such as automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, parking assist, and automatic high beams. Despite its older design, the GX's safety features were up-to-date, providing a good level of protection.