2023 Lincoln Navigator vs 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator, a full-size luxury SUV, continued to impress with its imposing presence and upscale design. Despite lacking significant updates since its 2018 redesign and 2022 refresh, the Navigator maintained its appeal with features like the Monochromatic Package, which added black 22-inch wheels and body-color trim. The interior of the Navigator Reserve model was predominantly black, accented with real wood trim and chrome details, creating a sophisticated atmosphere. However, some chrome plastic switchgear detracted from the overall luxury feel. The cabin was spacious and comfortable, with ambient lighting adding character at night. The Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system, though a costly option, went largely unused by tech-savvy teenagers.

In contrast, the 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid offered a more understated yet modern aesthetic. The RX 350h Luxury test vehicle, with its Iridium silver exterior and 21-inch wheels, looked identical to the standard RX 350, save for the badge on the liftgate. The RX 500h F Sport Performance model stood out with its Copper paint, blacked-out grille, and aggressive styling. Inside, the RX adopted a minimalistic design with contemporary textures and ambient lighting. The RX 350h Luxury featured Macadamia semi-aniline leather and Ash Bamboo wood trim, exuding luxury, while the RX 500h F Sport Performance had a sportier all-black interior with artificial suede and dark gray aluminum trim. The RX's new design, though not groundbreaking, offered a refined and comfortable environment.

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 five drive modes, including Conserve, Normal, and Excite. Despite its power, the Navigator's ride quality was less than ideal, with the Reserve trim's 22-inch wheels contributing to a truck-like ride over bumps. In Excite mode, the suspension stiffened, improving handling but reducing fuel efficiency. The Navigator's size posed challenges in urban environments, and its nearly three-ton curb weight tested the brakes on mountain roads.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid offered two distinct hybrid powertrains. The RX 350h, with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, produced 246 hp and 233 lb-ft of torque, achieving an estimated 36 mpg in combined driving. The RX 500h F Sport Performance, with a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine, delivered 366 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, reaching 60 mph in 5.9 seconds. Despite its power, the RX 500h's fuel economy was lower, averaging 20.9 mpg. The RX 500h's adaptive damping suspension and Dynamic Rear Steering system provided a sporty driving experience, while the RX 350h offered a quieter, more efficient ride. The RX 350h's lower center of gravity and electric assist motor enhanced stability and comfort.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator excelled in functionality, offering spacious seating across three rows and a generous cargo area. The Navigator's 30-way Perfect Position front seats, with heating, ventilation, and massage, provided comfort for long journeys, though their numerous adjustments could be overwhelming. The second-row captain's chairs and third-row seats accommodated adults comfortably. Storage 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 Lexus RX Hybrid prioritized comfort and efficiency. The RX 350h Luxury's ten-way power-adjustable front seats, premium leather, and three-zone climate control created a pleasant environment. The RX 500h F Sport Performance featured sportier seats with larger bolsters and a thicker steering wheel. The RX's battery placement under the rear seat improved leg support but reduced headroom. Cargo space was improved over the previous model, with 29.6 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 46.2 cubic feet with the seat folded down, though it still lagged behind some competitors.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator featured a suite 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, SiriusXM 360L, and Alexa Built-in. The digital assistant performed well, understanding commands accurately. However, the wireless smartphone charger overheated devices. The 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D Audio System provided excellent sound quality. Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment screens were available but underutilized by passengers.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid introduced a new infotainment system, requiring subscription services for full functionality. The Lexus Interface included Drive Connect with cloud-based navigation and an Intelligent Assistant. While the assistant generally performed well, it occasionally misinterpreted requests. The touchscreen's single-menu view and lack of a tuning knob were drawbacks. The available head-up display, with dual-function steering wheel controls, was challenging to use with polarized sunglasses. Despite these issues, the RX's technology represented a significant upgrade.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator came equipped with Lincoln Co-Pilot360 2.0 and Co-Pilot360 2.0 Drive packages, offering advanced driving assistance systems like Evasive Steering Assist and Intersection Assist. BlueCruise, a hands-free driving system, was available but required frequent driver intervention. The Navigator received a 5-star side-impact protection rating and a 4-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid featured Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, and intersection turn assistance. Proactive Driving Assist maintained safe distances and recharged the battery through regenerative braking. While the system generally performed well, issues with the front cross-traffic alert and curve-speed reduction features were noted. Traffic Jam Assist and Advanced Park were available but not tested.