2022 Lincoln Navigator vs 2023 Lincoln Aviator

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator received subtle styling changes that aimed to refine an already successful design. New headlights and taillights, updated wheel designs with a standard 20-inch option, and a redesigned front end were among the changes. The Lincoln Embrace nighttime welcome illumination sequence was also updated. These adjustments mostly enhanced the vehicle’s aesthetics, with the exception of the new Audi-esque grille reminiscent of a 2006 Audi A4, though decorated with the Lincoln star and chrome detailing, which some argued detracted from its previous elegance and presence.

Inside, the Navigator continued to impress with its luxurious materials and a mid-century modern design. The new Constellation instrumentation and infotainment display theme was a standout feature, offering a visually stunning display akin to a starlit sky 30 minutes after sunset. Additionally, the SUV boasted a new Sync 4 infotainment system with a substantially larger 13.2-inch touchscreen display, adding to its technological allure.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator, in contrast, offered a more modern and sleek execution of Lincoln’s design principles. The exterior was characterized by the successful implementation of the modern Lincoln face, although the wheel designs on the Black Label Grand Touring trim were considered rather plain. The multi-spoke machined-finish rims on the nearly ubiquitous white paint did not elevate the vehicle to its $90,000 price tag. The Lincoln Embrace lighting sequence, electric door handles, and ambient cabin lighting added to the luxurious experience.

Inside the Aviator Black Label Grand Touring, the interior was undeniably fancy, though some critics felt it was trying too hard. A mix of patterned metal trim, gloss black surfaces, chrome accents, and caramel-hued, perforated leather seats created an Art Deco vibe. High-end materials like supple leather and a simulated suede headliner added to the opulence, but some details, like less convincing chromed switchgear and plastic-like stitching, fell short of expectations.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator carried forward its twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive (RWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD). Delivering a robust 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque, the engine emitted a pleasing note under acceleration. The SUV's towing capacity ranged between 8,100 pounds and 8,700 pounds, depending on configurations, and it boasted Trailer Reverse Guidance technology for easier towing.

The new adaptive-damping suspension with Road Preview could identify road imperfections and prepare the suspension accordingly. Despite its heavy 22-inch wheels, the Navigator handled the few rough patches encountered with ease. The electronic brake booster introduced for 2022 improved brake pedal feel and response significantly.

During our drive in Arizona, including an ascent to Payson and through snow-covered roads, the Navigator’s twin-turbo V6 performed admirably, climbing effortlessly despite the SUV’s nearly three-ton curb weight. In various conditions, from highways to muddy terrain, the Navigator’s 4WD and ground clearance of 9.7 inches helped it tackle challenges without fuss. Fuel economy was respectable, with our evaluation showing an average of 18.6 mpg, slightly better than the EPA's combined figure of 18 mpg.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring, a plug-in hybrid, combined a twin-turbo V6 with a 75-kilowatt electric motor and a 13.6-kilowatt-hour battery pack. This potent setup produced an impressive 494 horsepower and 630 pound-feet of torque. The EPA estimated 21 miles of electric driving range and 23 mpg in hybrid mode.

We started our extended evaluation with 23 miles of indicated electric range, achieving 20.8 miles purely on electricity before the gas engine engaged, resulting in a fuel economy equivalent to 163.4 mpg. Over 94.7 miles, using both electric and gas power, the Aviator averaged 24.3 mpg.

However, the Aviator’s drivetrain occasionally exhibited unpredictability, with erratic acceleration and inconsistent brake pedal behavior due to its regenerative braking system. The additional 800+ pounds of curb weight were handled efficiently by the standard Dynamic Handling Package with adaptive-damping Active Glide suspension, ensuring a smooth and stable ride. Despite its impressive handling, the Aviator lacked the engaging drive of more sport-oriented SUVs.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator excelled in providing comfort across all three rows. The heated, ventilated, and massaging 30-way power-adjustable front seats required some adjustment but offered exceptional comfort once properly set. Second-row passengers enjoyed new massaging, heated, and ventilated captain’s chairs, separated by a large console, while third-row passengers benefited from spacious and supportive seating.

Cargo space was generous, offering 19.3 cubic feet behind the third-row seat and expanding to 57.5 cubic feet with the third-row folded. The long-wheelbase Navigator L variant significantly increased cargo capacity to 34.3 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 120.2 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator also prioritized comfort, featuring a four-zone automatic climate control system, a heated power tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel, and heated and ventilated front and second-row seats. The massaging 30-way Perfect Position front seats were highly comfortable, requiring some initial adjustments.

Second-row captain’s chairs were roomy and supportive, benefiting from a center console with ample storage and controls for the panoramic sunroof’s shade. However, the Aviator’s third-row seats were less accommodating, offering limited legroom and comfort, making them less suitable for adults.

Cargo capacity in the Aviator was also less than the Navigator’s, with just 18.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 41.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 77.7 cubic feet with both rear rows down.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator upgraded to a Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen, replacing the previous year’s smaller and outdated 10.1-inch screen. The new system, with its intuitive and smartphone-like user interface, supported Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Physical controls for volume, tuning, and climate functions remained user-friendly, with a matte finish for easy readability.

Sync 4’s voice recognition system performed well, though not flawlessly. Its over-the-air update capability offered potential for future improvements. The upgraded Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system now included Amazon Fire TV, providing quick access to streaming content. A new 28-speaker Revel 3D audio system delivered an exceptional sound experience.

In comparison, the 2023 Lincoln Aviator used the older Sync 3 infotainment software on its 10.1-inch touchscreen. Though the system featured modern connectivity options like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Alexa integration, its voice recognition fell short. Testing showed inaccuracies in locating destinations and handling voice prompts. The 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D audio system, however, was exceptional, and the Detroit Symphony Orchestra-recorded chimes added a unique touch.

The Aviator’s digital instrumentation, head-up display, wireless charging, and Phone As A Key system enhanced its technological appeal. However, the lack of a more advanced infotainment system like Sync 4 was noticeable.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced several new driver assistance systems, including Intersection Assist, Road Edge Detection, Active Park Assist 2.0, and ActiveGlide. The latter, Lincoln’s semi-autonomous driving technology, allowed hands-free driving on approved highways, although continuous driver attention was necessary. The Navigator also featured a standard surround-view camera system.

During our testing, ActiveGlide performed well on straight, dry highways, though it required driver intervention in curves and when other vehicles encroached on its lane.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator came equipped with Lincoln’s Co-Pilot360 safety features, including automatic high-beam adaptive headlights, adaptive cruise control, road-sign recognition, pedestrian detection, and forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking. Additional features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keeping assist, and evasive steering assist were included.

The Aviator’s safety tech performed well overall, though lane-keeping assist struggled in curves. The cluster of steering wheel controls could be confusing and required illumination to use. Despite these minor issues, the standard Aviator earned top safety ratings, including a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.