2022 Kia Seltos vs 2022 Lincoln Navigator

The 2022 Kia Seltos was positioned between the smaller Soul and the larger Sportage, offering five trim levels: LX, S, EX, Nightfall Edition, and SX. Most trims, except the Seltos S, included standard all-wheel drive (AWD), with prices ranging from $22,590 to $28,080, excluding a $1,255 destination charge. The Nightfall Edition, our test vehicle, featured matte-black 18-inch alloy wheels, a turbocharged engine, a dual-clutch transmission (DCT), a black grille, added body cladding, and robust roof rails, priced at $28,045 with the destination charge. The Seltos was a small SUV with an appealing design, though the headlights and intricate wheels had mixed reviews. Inside, it showcased a stylish interior with contrast-color dashboard panels and metallic accents, though the abundance of shiny hard plastic detracted from its overall quality. The controls were logically arranged, but the purple accent color for the infotainment system was not universally liked.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator underwent subtle styling changes, including new headlights, taillights, and wheel designs, with a restyled front end. The changes were generally well-received, except for the front end, which featured an Audi-esque grille that some felt reduced its elegance. Despite this, the Navigator's updates were considered successful. Inside, it continued to impress with quality materials and a mid-century modern design, featuring Lincoln’s Constellation instrumentation and infotainment display theme. The new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen display was a significant upgrade, offering ample display space. The Navigator was available in standard and long-wheelbase styles with Standard, Reserve, and Black Label trims, starting at $78,405, including a $1,695 destination charge. Our test vehicle, a Navigator Black Label in the Central Park theme, was priced at $106,530, including the destination charge.

The 2022 Kia Seltos offered a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 146 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque for the LX, S, and EX trims, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The Nightfall Edition and SX trims featured a more powerful turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 175 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT). The turbo-DCT combination made the Seltos more engaging to drive, with driving modes including Normal, Sport, and Smart. The AWD system had a Lock function for power distribution, and the Seltos was capable in light off-roading conditions. However, the suspension tuning was less appealing, with noticeable body motion and limited bump isolation. The Seltos returned 27 mpg in combined driving during testing.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator retained its twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. It offered rear-wheel drive (RWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD), with a towing capacity between 8,100 and 8,700 pounds. The Navigator's adaptive-damping suspension featured Road Preview technology, enhancing ride quality. The new electronic brake booster improved brake pedal feel and response. During testing, the Navigator handled various road conditions with ease, including snow and mud, thanks to its 9.7 inches of ground clearance and appropriate driving modes. The Navigator 4WD achieved 18.6 mpg in combined driving during evaluation.

The 2022 Kia Seltos excelled in form and function, offering a roomy interior with easy access due to its ride height and large door openings. The Nightfall Edition featured a six-way manually adjustable driver’s seat and a tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel. The rear seat accommodated adults comfortably, with generous legroom and footroom. Cargo space measured 26.6 cubic feet behind the back seat and 62.8 cubic feet with the rear seat folded down.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator provided exceptional comfort with its 30-way power-adjustable front seats, offering heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The second-row captain’s chairs were also heated, ventilated, and massaging, enhancing passenger comfort. The third-row seat offered roomy accommodations, and the Navigator's independent rear suspension design contributed to its comfort. Storage and cargo space were generous, with the Navigator L offering even more capacity. Cargo volume ranged from 19.3 cubic feet behind the third-row seat to 103.3 cubic feet with the second-row seats collapsed.

The 2022 Kia Seltos expanded the availability of its 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, standard on the EX, Nightfall Edition, and SX trims. It included Bluetooth, navigation, satellite radio, and a six-speaker stereo, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto requiring a cable connection. The system was intuitive, with physical controls for primary functions, but lacked a native conversational voice recognition system.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced a new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen display, offering improved functionality and user experience. It supported Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, with physical controls for volume and climate functions. The voice recognition system was improved, though not perfect. The upgraded Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system included Amazon Fire TV, providing access to streaming services. The test vehicle featured a 28-speaker Revel 3D audio system, delivering exceptional sound quality.

The 2022 Kia Seltos was equipped with numerous driving assistance systems, including forward-collision avoidance, pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping assist. The Seltos EX added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, while the SX offered adaptive cruise control and Highway Driving Assist. The Seltos SX received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, while the NHTSA awarded it an overall rating of four stars.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced new driver assistance systems, including Intersection Assist, Road Edge Detection, and Active Park Assist 2.0. ActiveGlide, a semi-autonomous driving technology, was also available. The surround-view camera system became standard. ActiveGlide performed well during testing, though it required driver attention. These systems represented steps toward fully autonomous driving.