2023 Lincoln Navigator vs 2022 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas carried over with minor modifications from the previous year, simplifying its lineup to six trim levels. The SEL Premium R-Line trim, which we tested, featured 21-inch wheels and a new Aurora Red paint option, giving it an upscale look. However, the interior, while designed with simplicity and premium flair, fell short due to the use of low-cost materials and hard plastics, which detracted from the overall quality.

In contrast, the 2023 Lincoln Navigator, last redesigned in 2018 and freshened up in 2022, rolled into 2023 without significant updates. Our test vehicle, a triple-black Navigator Reserve model, featured a Monochromatic Package with black 22-inch wheels and body-color trim. The interior, adorned with real wood trim and chrome accents, looked upscale and used quality materials. However, the chrome plastic on the switchgear occasionally failed to convey luxury.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.6-liter V6 engine generating 276 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. The turbo-four had a maximum towing capacity of 2,000 pounds and an EPA fuel economy rating of 22-23 mpg in combined driving. The V6, with a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, had a fuel economy rating of 19-20 mpg in combined driving. The Atlas featured various driving modes and an optional 4Motion AWD system with Active Control calibrations.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator came with a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and a 4WD drivetrain. The test vehicle had an EPA fuel economy rating of 18 mpg in combined driving, but averaged 15.6 mpg during testing. The Navigator offered five Lincoln Drive Modes and an adaptive damping suspension with Road Preview. While the Excite mode improved handling, it negatively impacted fuel efficiency. The Navigator's size proved challenging in urban settings, but it felt smaller and more manageable on mountain roads.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in interior space and comfort, seating seven people comfortably, even in the third row. The step-in height was low, making it easy to enter and exit. The test vehicle featured V-Tex leatherette seating, heated front seats, and a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat. Higher trims added tri-zone automatic climate control, ambient cabin lighting, and a panoramic sunroof. Cargo space was exceptional, with 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 55.5 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 96.8 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator offered roomy seats in all three rows, with power-deploying running boards for easier access. The test vehicle had 30-way Perfect Position power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage. The second-row captain’s chairs provided a pass-through to the third row, which accommodated taller adults comfortably. Storage space was generous, and the Navigator L model offered significantly more cargo space. The standard Navigator had 19.3 cubic feet behind the third row, 57.5 cubic feet behind the second row, and 103.3 cubic feet behind the front seats, while the Navigator L provided 34.3, 73.3, and 120.2 cubic feet, respectively.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas came standard with the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit instrument cluster, featuring an 8-inch display that expanded to 10.25 inches in higher trims. The SE trim had a 6.5-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims featured the MIB3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 12-speaker Fender premium sound system. However, the user experience was hindered by slow loading times and a cumbersome tuning process.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator featured a 12-inch digital instrumentation display, a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and an available widescreen head-up display. The Sync 4 infotainment system included wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM 360L satellite radio, and Alexa Built-in. The digital assistant performed excellently, and the 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D Audio System provided lush sound. The Lincoln Way smartphone app and Phone As A Key technology allowed owners to unlock, start, and drive the SUV using a digital key.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered a comprehensive list of safety features, including automatic post-collision braking, Front Assist, Side Assist, and Rear Traffic Alert. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, front and rear parking sensors, and the full collection of IQ Drive safety features, including Lane Assist, Travel Assist, and Emergency Assist. However, the Lane Assist technology had issues with old construction markings and exit ramps. The Atlas received decent crash-test ratings but did not earn a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator came with a long list of advanced driving assistance systems, including Evasive Steering Assist, Intersection Assist, and BlueCruise. BlueCruise allowed for hands-free driving on designated highways but struggled with curves, mixed pavement surfaces, and construction zones. The Navigator received a 5-star side-impact protection rating and a 4-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA.