2023 Lincoln Navigator vs 2023 Honda Pilot

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator continued to impress with its luxurious design and spacious interior, despite not undergoing significant updates since its last refresh in 2022. The test vehicle, a triple-black Navigator Reserve model, showcased the Monochromatic Package, which included black 22-inch wheels and body-color trim. The interior, adorned with real wood trim and chrome accents, exuded an upscale feel, although some chrome plastic elements fell short of conveying true luxury. The cabin's ambient lighting added character, and the Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system, though largely ignored by younger passengers, was a notable feature. The Navigator's MSRP reached $104,715, reflecting its premium positioning.

In contrast, the 2023 Honda Pilot underwent a complete redesign, emerging with a more rugged and substantial appearance. The new model was larger, with an increase in length, width, and height, enhancing its road presence. The TrailSport model, in particular, benefited from off-road enhancements, including a taller ride height, all-terrain tires, and underbody skid plates. Inside, the Pilot's interior took a more conventional approach, prioritizing functionality and versatility. The materials met class expectations, and the overall design emphasized practicality without sacrificing attractiveness. The Pilot's utilitarian aesthetic and focus on function over form made it a preferred choice for those seeking a family-friendly SUV.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a robust 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 drivetrain, the Navigator offered a range of driving modes, including Conserve, Normal, Excite, Slippery, and Deep Conditions. Despite its adaptive damping suspension, the Navigator's ride quality was inconsistent, with a tendency to feel truck-like over smaller bumps. In Excite mode, the suspension stiffened, improving the ride but impacting fuel efficiency. The Navigator's nearly three-ton curb weight challenged the brakes, especially on winding roads, and its size proved cumbersome in urban settings.

The 2023 Honda Pilot featured a new 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. While not as powerful as the Navigator, the Pilot's acceleration was quick and responsive, with a pleasant engine note. The SUV prioritized comfort over performance, with light steering and noticeable body roll in corners. The TrailSport model offered increased ground clearance and all-terrain tires, enhancing its off-road capabilities without sacrificing on-road composure. The Pilot's family-friendly design made it a versatile choice for daily driving and outdoor adventures.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator excelled in functionality, offering spacious seating across all three rows and a generous cargo area. The test vehicle featured Lincoln's 30-way Perfect Position power-adjustable front seats, providing comfort with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. However, the multitude of adjustments proved challenging to perfect. Storage space was ample, with various trays and compartments throughout the cabin. The extended-length Navigator L model offered even more cargo space, making it ideal for carrying both passengers and luggage.

The 2023 Honda Pilot's interior was designed with practicality in mind, featuring a conventional layout with a handy dash shelf for the front passenger. The infotainment system varied by trim, with higher trims offering larger touchscreens and additional features. The Pilot's standout feature was its stowable second-row center seat, providing a pass-through to the third row. The second row offered ample space for adults, while the third row was suitable for shorter trips. The Pilot's cargo capacity was impressive, with flexible storage options and a maximum capacity of 114.3 cubic feet.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator boasted 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 host of other features. The Navigator's digital assistant performed well, understanding commands accurately. The Revel Ultima 3D Audio System provided exceptional sound quality, and the Lincoln Way app allowed for digital key functionality. However, the wireless smartphone charger tended to overheat devices, limiting its usability.

The 2023 Honda Pilot's technology suite was comprehensive, especially in higher trims. The EX-L trim and above offered a larger infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless phone charger. The Pilot's infotainment system was user-friendly, with quick responses and a logical layout. Additional features included Honda's CabinTalk PA system, a navigation system, and a Bose premium audio system. The TrailSport and Elite trims featured the multi-view TrailWatch camera system, enhancing off-road awareness.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator came equipped with a suite of advanced driving assistance systems, including Evasive Steering Assist, Intersection Assist, and BlueCruise hands-free driving assist. While BlueCruise offered hands-free driving on designated highways, it struggled with certain conditions and required 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 Honda Pilot was expected to receive top safety scores, having already earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. Standard Honda Sensing features included forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims added low-speed automatic braking and parking sensors. The Pilot's safety features performed reliably, with no false alarms during testing. The TrailSport and Elite trims offered additional camera systems for enhanced visibility.