2022 Mitsubishi Outlander vs 2022 Lincoln Navigator

The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander showcased a bold front styling with its “Dynamic Shield” grille and lighting concept, giving it a unique identity. Despite its daring front, the design from the front wheels to the rear bumper was balanced and appealing. The Outlander was available in ES, SE, SE Launch Edition, SEL, and SEL Launch Edition trims, all featuring handsome 20-inch wheels. Prices ranged from $25,795 to $35,345, with an additional $1,800 for AWD and a $1,195 destination charge. The test vehicle, an SEL trim with AWD, White Diamond paint, and the Touring package, totaled $39,475. The Touring Package added premium semi-aniline leather, a heated steering wheel, a HUD, a premium sound system, and a power panoramic sunroof, enhancing the interior's luxurious feel. The minimalist interior design, with black and aluminum accents, was mostly high-quality, though some plastics reminded of its compact crossover status.

In contrast, the 2022 Lincoln Navigator received subtle styling updates, including new headlights, taillights, and a restyled front end. The new Audi-esque grille, however, was less elegant than before. Despite this, the Navigator's updates were successful overall. Inside, the Navigator dazzled with quality materials and a mid-century modern design, featuring Lincoln’s Constellation display theme. The new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen, digital instrumentation, and widescreen HUD kept the Navigator competitive. Available in standard and long-wheelbase styles with Standard, Reserve, and Black Label trims, the Navigator's MSRP started at $78,405. The test vehicle, a Black Label with a Central Park theme, featured a green interior and second-row captain’s chairs, totaling $106,530.

The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander was equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 181 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 181 pound-feet of torque at 3,600 rpm. A CVT powered the front wheels, with an optional S-AWC AWD system. The Outlander offered Eco, Normal, Tarmac, Gravel, Snow, and Mud driving modes, but its performance was underwhelming. The engine felt most responsive in lower-speed environments, but acceleration on freeways and passing maneuvers left much to be desired. The steering was vague and disconnected, and the suspension was too firm, making the ride uncomfortable on anything but smooth pavement. The Outlander returned 24.9 mpg on the testing route, falling short of the EPA’s 26 mpg rating for AWD models.

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. Available in RWD or 4WD, the Navigator’s towing capacity ranged from 8,100 to 8,700 pounds. The adaptive-damping suspension with Road Preview and a new electronic brake booster improved ride quality and braking response. The Navigator handled well on various terrains, including snow and mud, thanks to its 4WD, 9.7 inches of ground clearance, and appropriate driving modes. The Navigator averaged 18.6 mpg during testing, slightly above the EPA’s 18 mpg combined rating for 4WD models.

The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander excelled in form and function, with roomy and comfortable front seats, intuitive controls, and impressive displays. The SEL trim featured an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. However, the center console had wasted space, and the third-row seat was cramped and unsafe for adults. Cargo capacity was limited to 11.7 cubic feet with the third row in use, expanding to 33.5 cubic feet with it folded, and a maximum of 78.3 cubic feet with the second row down.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator’s 30-way power-adjustable front seats were exceptionally comfortable, with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The second-row captain’s chairs also offered heating, ventilation, and massage, making long trips enjoyable. The third-row seat provided ample space and comfort, thanks to the independent rear suspension. The Navigator offered generous storage and cargo space, with 19.3 cubic feet behind the third row, 57.5 cubic feet with it folded, and a maximum of 103.3 cubic feet with the second row down. The long-wheelbase Navigator L increased these capacities to 34.3, 73.3, and 120.2 cubic feet, respectively.

The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander SEL with the Touring Package featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display, a large and detailed HUD, and a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto. The system included a two-year subscription to Mitsubishi Connect Safeguard and Remote service plans. Wireless smartphone charging and a 10-speaker Bose premium audio system were also standard. However, the voice-recognition technology struggled with road noise and tire slap.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator’s new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen was a significant upgrade, offering easy-to-use controls and support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The system featured a user-friendly interface with physical controls for volume, tuning, and climate functions. The voice recognition system was improved but not perfect. The upgraded Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV provided access to popular streaming services. The 28-speaker Revel 3D audio system delivered sensational sound quality.

The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander included Mi-Pilot Assist, a hands-on Level 2 driver-assist system similar to Nissan’s ProPilot Assist. It worked with commendable refinement but required the driver to keep their hands on the wheel. Other safety features included forward collision avoidance, safe reversing, lane-keeping assistance, and blind-spot warning. Crash-test results were unavailable at the time of review.

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, hands-free driving technology, performed well on approved highways but required the driver to remain attentive. The system represented a step toward fully autonomous driving but still required human oversight.