2023 Lincoln Navigator vs 2023 Ford Bronco

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator, a full-size luxury SUV, continued to impress with its elegant design and high-end features. Despite the anticipation of an electric version, the current model maintained its appeal with a few updates from previous years. The Navigator's exterior, especially in the Reserve trim with the Monochromatic Package, showcased a sleek, triple-black look with 22-inch wheels and body-color trim. Inside, the cabin exuded luxury with black leather, real wood trim, and chrome accents, although some switchgear felt less premium. The ambient lighting added a touch of sophistication, and the Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system, though underutilized by teenagers, was a notable feature. The Navigator's MSRP reached $104,715, reflecting its premium positioning.

In contrast, the 2023 Ford Bronco offered a rugged and retro-cool aesthetic that appealed to adventure enthusiasts. With nine distinct trim levels, the Bronco's design ranged from the basic, bare-bones Base trim to the top-tier Raptor with its wide stance and massive tires. The Heritage trim added nostalgic elements like a white grille and plaid seat upholstery. The Bronco's styling was not just for show; functional features like cleats above the headlights and raised fins enhanced its off-road capabilities. Inside, the Bronco's interior was designed for durability, with sealed switches, drain plugs, and marine-grade vinyl upholstery. While not as refined as typical SUVs, the Bronco's interior was practical and customizable, with options for Molle-type bags and accessories.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator was powered by 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 4WD, it offered five driving modes, including Conserve, Normal, and Excite. The Navigator's adaptive damping suspension, however, did not live up to expectations, resulting in a less-than-smooth ride. On mountain roads, the Excite mode improved handling but at the cost of fuel efficiency. The Navigator's size posed challenges in urban settings, making parking and maneuvering difficult.

The 2023 Ford Bronco offered three engine options: a 2.3-liter four-cylinder with 300 hp, a 2.7-liter V6 with 330 hp, and a 3.0-liter V6 in the Raptor with 418 hp. All engines came with 4WD and a two-speed transfer case. The Bronco excelled in off-road performance, with G.O.A.T. drive modes optimizing settings for various terrains. On-road, the Bronco's ride was bouncier than typical SUVs but more stable than a Jeep Wrangler. The Bronco's high-riding dimensions required careful handling on curving roads, but it remained confident and maneuverable, especially with its camera systems.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator excelled in functionality, offering spacious seating across three rows and an extended body style for increased cargo capacity. The power-deploying running boards and 30-way adjustable front seats added convenience and comfort, though the seats' numerous adjustments could be overwhelming. Storage was ample, with various trays and compartments throughout the cabin. The Navigator L model provided even more cargo space, making it ideal for carrying both passengers and luggage.

The 2023 Ford Bronco's boxy shape maximized interior space, with ample room in both the two-door and four-door models. The four-door model offered easier access to the rear seats and more cargo space, with up to 77.6 cubic feet available. The Bronco's interior featured practical storage solutions, like netted door pockets and a rubberized tray for phones. While the rear seats didn't fold flat, the Bronco's roof mounting points allowed for overlanding setups. The ease of removing fenders and doors added to its off-road appeal.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator featured a range of digital displays, including a 12-inch digital instrumentation display and a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The Sync 4 system offered wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, along with a navigation system and Alexa Built-in. The Navigator's digital assistant performed well, but the wireless smartphone charger overheated devices. The 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D Audio System provided excellent sound quality, and the Lincoln Way app allowed for digital key functionality.

The 2023 Ford Bronco integrated technology to enhance its off-road capabilities, with G.O.A.T. drive modes and numerous camera views for navigating challenging terrain. The Trail Turn Assist feature improved maneuverability, while the infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Most Broncos came with an eight-inch touchscreen, but a 12-inch display was available for easier use. The Bronco's tech features balanced off-road functionality with modern convenience.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator came equipped with advanced driving assistance systems, including BlueCruise for hands-free driving on designated highways. However, BlueCruise struggled with certain conditions, requiring driver intervention. The Navigator received a 5-star side-impact protection rating and a 4-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA, but lacked a full crashworthiness assessment.

The 2023 Ford Bronco received mixed safety ratings, with the four-door model earning four stars for frontal crash protection and three stars for rollover protection from the NHTSA. The IIHS rated it "Good" in most crashworthiness tests. Standard safety features included forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking, with additional options available in higher trims. While the Bronco's safety features functioned well, it lagged behind more conventional SUVs in terms of standard equipment.