2023 Lincoln Navigator vs 2024 Mazda CX-5

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator, a full-size luxury SUV, continued to impress with its imposing presence and luxurious features. Despite the anticipation of an electric version, the current model remained largely unchanged since its last refresh in 2022. The test vehicle, a triple-black Navigator Reserve model, showcased the Monochromatic Package with black 22-inch wheels and body-color trim, although keeping it clean proved challenging. Inside, the cabin exuded an upscale feel with quality materials, though some chrome plastic elements fell short of conveying true luxury. The Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system, despite its advanced features, was largely ignored by younger passengers in favor of their smartphones.

In contrast, the 2024 Mazda CX-5 maintained its sleek and modern design, a testament to its enduring appeal since the second-generation model's debut in 2017. The test vehicle, a new Carbon Turbo trim, featured Zircon Sand paint and exclusive Terracotta leather seats, adding a touch of sophistication. Mazda's focus on improving fuel economy and adding wireless charging and connectivity options enhanced the CX-5's appeal. The interior, though compact, offered a premium feel with quality materials and thoughtful design, making it a standout in the compact crossover segment.

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, it offered a range of driving modes, including Conserve, Normal, and Excite. However, the ride quality was less than ideal, with the SUV feeling truck-like over smaller bumps and floating over larger dips. The Excite mode improved handling but at the cost of fuel efficiency, with the Navigator averaging 15.6 mpg on a Southern California test loop. Despite its size, the Navigator felt surprisingly nimble on mountain roads, though its nearly three-ton weight challenged the brakes.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Turbo, with its turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, offered 256 horsepower on premium gas and 227 on regular, with torque figures of 320 lb-ft and 310 lb-ft, respectively. The powertrain was more rewarding with a gradual acceleration approach, though fuel efficiency was a concern, with an observed 22.9 mpg. The CX-5's handling was refined, thanks to a re-tuned suspension and G-Vectoring Control Plus technology, providing a smooth and responsive ride. The SUV excelled in various driving conditions, from city streets to twisty mountain roads, and offered a decent 7.9 inches of ground clearance for off-road trails.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator excelled in functionality, offering spacious seating across 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 could be overwhelming. Storage was ample, with various trays and compartments throughout the cabin. For those needing more cargo space, the extended-length Navigator L model offered significantly more room behind the third-row seat, making it ideal for carrying both passengers and luggage.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5, while smaller in interior space, provided a comfortable and supportive environment for four adults. The redesigned heated front seats offered six-way power adjustment for the driver, and the rear seats were supportive with a proper sitting position. The cabin's design and quality materials elevated the CX-5 above many of its competitors, with thoughtful touches like padded console sides and rear air conditioning vents. Cargo space was adequate, with 30 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 59.3 cubic feet with them folded, though less than some rivals in the compact segment.

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, along with a navigation system and Alexa Built-in. The digital assistant performed well, understanding commands accurately. However, the wireless smartphone charger caused overheating issues. The 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D Audio System provided excellent sound quality, and the Lincoln Way app allowed for digital key functionality. The rear-seat Lincoln Play system, though advanced, was underutilized by passengers.

Mazda's approach in the 2024 CX-5 focused on minimizing driver distraction, with traditional switchgear for essential controls. The 10.25-inch display allowed touchscreen operation for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with wireless connectivity available in several trims. The infotainment system was navigated via a console-mounted knob, a design reminiscent of luxury brands. While the native voice interface could be improved, Mazda Connected Services offered remote engine starting and other features. The 10-speaker Bose sound system, standard in the Carbon Turbo, added to the premium feel of the interior.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator came equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) through the Lincoln Co-Pilot360 2.0 packages. Notable features included Evasive Steering Assist, Intersection Assist, and BlueCruise, a hands-free driving assist system. However, BlueCruise had limitations, struggling with curves and construction zones, and requiring driver intervention in certain situations. The Navigator received a 5-star side-impact protection rating and a 4-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA, though a full crashworthiness assessment was unavailable.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 offered a robust set of ADAS, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added features like adaptive headlights and Traffic Jam Assist. The standard safety systems performed well, with the lane departure and lane-keeping systems being particularly effective. The CX-5 had previously earned a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS, though it did not receive this accolade in 2024. The NHTSA awarded the CX-5 five-star ratings across most categories, with a four-star rollover resistance rating.