2022 Lincoln Navigator vs 2023 Mazda CX-5

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator underwent subtle styling changes, including new headlights, taillights, and wheel designs, with a restyled front end that featured an Audi-esque grille. While the grille's design was less elegant than previous models, the rest of the updates were well-received. Inside, the Navigator dazzled with quality materials and a mid-century modern design, featuring the Constellation instrumentation and infotainment display theme. The new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen display was a significant upgrade, keeping the Navigator competitive in the screen size race. The Navigator was available in standard and long-wheelbase styles, with the Reserve trim level in Canada starting at $107,500.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5, despite its age, remained a stylish and high-quality choice in the compact crossover SUV segment. It looked and felt more like a small luxury SUV, with high-quality materials and an available turbocharged engine providing impressive power. The CX-5 was redesigned and renamed as the CX-50, but the 2023 model continued to offer quality, refinement, and sophistication. The CX-5's lineup included six versions, with prices ranging from $31,250 to $44,250, making it a competitive option in the compact crossover segment. The 2.5 Turbo Signature test vehicle featured premium Nappa leather upholstery and a high price tag of $46,755, but it was considered worthy of its cost.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. It featured a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive in Canada. The Navigator's towing capacity ranged from 3,674 to 3,765 kilograms, depending on the configuration. The adaptive-damping suspension with Road Preview technology improved ride quality, and the new electronic brake booster enhanced brake pedal feel. The Navigator's fuel consumption was rated at 13.2 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, with an observed average of 12.6 L/100 km during testing.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 offered a choice between a standard 187-horsepower four-cylinder engine and a 256-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The turbo engine provided 320 pound-feet of torque on premium fuel and 310 lb-ft on regular gas. The CX-5's fuel economy was rated at 9.8 L/100 km in combined driving for the turbo model, with an observed average of 11.0 L/100 km during testing. The CX-5's updates included improved structural rigidity, suspension dampening, and reduced interior noise, enhancing its driving dynamics. The turbocharged engine delivered quick acceleration, and the CX-5's handling was praised for its sporty and connected feel.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator offered exceptionally comfortable front seats with 30-way power adjustment, heating, ventilation, and optional massaging functions. The second-row captain's chairs were also heated, ventilated, and massaging, providing a luxurious experience. The third-row seat was spacious and comfortable, thanks to the independent rear suspension design. The Navigator's cargo space was generous, with 546 litres behind the third row and up to 2,925 litres with the second-row seats folded down.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 featured improved front seats for better comfort and support, with power adjustment available on higher trims. The Signature trim included Nappa leather upholstery and a range of comfort features. However, the CX-5's interior space was limited, with smaller storage areas, cramped rear-seat space, and less cargo capacity compared to rivals. The cargo area offered 871 litres behind the rear seat and 1,680 litres with the back seat folded down.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator's new Sync 4 infotainment system featured a 13.2-inch touchscreen display with a user-friendly interface and voice recognition. The system supported Bluetooth, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay, with over-the-air update capability. The upgraded Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system included Amazon Fire TV, providing access to streaming services. The optional 28-speaker Revel 3D audio system delivered exceptional sound quality.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5's Mazda Connect infotainment system had a 10.25-inch display with sophisticated graphics but was criticized for its awkward controls and lack of a voice recognition system. The system required memorization and focus to operate, making it less user-friendly. Despite these drawbacks, the CX-5 offered features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Bose premium audio system on higher trims. The test vehicle also included a front-facing camera and a surround-view camera system for easier parking.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced new driver assistance systems, including Intersection Assist, Active Park Assist 2.0, and ActiveGlide. The surround-view camera system became standard. ActiveGlide, a semi-autonomous driving technology, allowed hands-free driving on approved highways but required driver attention. The system performed well within its limits but required human intervention in certain situations.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 offered a comprehensive suite of driver assistance technologies under the i-Activsense banner. Most features were standard, with additional options on higher trims. The CX-5's safety systems operated smoothly and accurately, with features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The CX-5 received top safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, earning a Top Safety Pick ranking for 2023.