2022 Lincoln Navigator vs 2023 Volvo XC90

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 with Lincoln star and chrome detailing, which some felt reduced the vehicle's elegance. Despite this, the Navigator's updates were generally successful, maintaining its luxurious appeal. Inside, the Navigator dazzled with quality materials and a mid-century modern design, highlighted by Lincoln’s Constellation instrumentation and infotainment display theme. The new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen added to the vehicle's tech-savvy appeal.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 showcased a significant departure from Volvo's boxy past, presenting a purposeful yet understated design. The front end was solid without being ostentatious, and the grille was assertive without being flashy. The recognizable “Thor’s Hammer” headlights added a modern touch. The XC90's dimensions and shape remained somewhat rectilinear but far from the toaster-like designs of the past. The test vehicle featured 21-inch wheels and Platinum Gray paint with brown undertones, adding depth and richness. Inside, the XC90 boasted an elegant design with two-tone leather, metal speaker covers, a crystal shift knob, and luxurious Nappa leather upholstery, complemented by wood deco inlays.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator retained its twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and available in RWD or 4WD. 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 and a new electronic brake booster enhanced the driving experience. The Navigator handled various terrains effortlessly, including snow and mud, thanks to its 4WD, 9.7 inches of ground clearance, and adaptive suspension. The Navigator 4WD achieved an average fuel economy of 18.6 mpg during testing.

For 2023, Volvo introduced the B5 and B6 engines in the XC90, both featuring mild-hybrid technology. The B5 engine produced 247 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, while the B6 engine delivered 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. The mild-hybrid system improved fuel efficiency and smoothness, though the gains were minimal. The XC90's driving experience was enjoyable, with quick acceleration, a responsive eight-speed automatic transmission, and excellent insulation from road and wind noise. The brakes provided a solid pedal feel, and the XC90 handled well despite its size. The XC90's simplicity in driving dynamics was appreciated, though some drivers might find it underwhelming.

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 were also heated, ventilated, and massaging, providing a luxurious experience. The third-row seat offered roomy accommodations, 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 a maximum of 103.3 cubic feet with the second row collapsed. The long-wheelbase Navigator L offered even more space.

The 2023 Volvo XC90's interior was elegant but had some space and storage limitations. The front seats were comfortable, but the lack of dedicated storage for small items, such as cell phones, was a drawback. The second row was reasonably spacious but challenging to adjust. The standard seven-passenger seating could be configured to six-passenger seating with captain’s chairs, though this required an upgrade. The third row was difficult to access and offered limited space. Cargo capacity was 12.5 cubic feet with the third row in place, 41.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 65.5 cubic feet, which was less than some competitors.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator featured a new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen display, offering a user-friendly interface with support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Physical controls for volume, stereo tuning, and climate functions were easy to use. The voice recognition system was improved but not perfect. 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 an exceptional listening experience.

The 2023 Volvo XC90's tech offering included a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment display running Google OS, with built-in Google Maps, Spotify, NPR, and Google Assistant. The 12.3-inch driver information display also featured Google Maps. Natural-language recognition was excellent, and owners could issue commands via Google Home devices. However, many key functions were buried within the touchscreen interface, leading to some frustration. The minimalist design was appealing, but the lack of physical buttons for certain functions was a drawback.

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. Intersection Assist and Road Edge Detection were designed to enhance safety, though they were not experienced during testing. Active Park Assist 2.0 worked well, and ActiveGlide provided semi-autonomous, hands-free driving on approved highways. However, the driver still needed to remain attentive, as the system did not always identify threats.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 continued Volvo's legacy of safety, earning a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. The XC90 featured adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and Pilot Assist technology, which helped maintain distance and lane position. These safety features were standard, making the XC90 a compelling choice for safety-conscious buyers.