2023 Lincoln Navigator vs 2024 Hyundai Venue

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator, despite anticipation for an electric version, remained largely unchanged from its previous iterations. The fourth-generation model, refreshed in 2022, continued to offer luxury and functionality. The test vehicle, a triple-black Navigator Reserve, featured a Monochromatic Package with black 22-inch wheels and body-color trim. Inside, the cabin was upscale with quality materials, though some chrome plastic elements fell short of luxury expectations. The Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system was included but largely ignored by passengers in favor of personal devices.

In contrast, the 2024 Hyundai Venue presented a more compact and affordable option. The Limited trim test vehicle, painted in Ecotronic Gray, offered a mature appearance. Despite its small size, the Venue's interior was thoughtfully designed with stylish details like fabric inserts and white trim. The digital instrumentation and 8-inch touchscreen infotainment display were highlights, providing a modern and user-friendly experience. The Venue's design and features made it an appealing choice for those seeking style in an affordable package.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a 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 five driving modes. However, the ride quality was inconsistent, with the SUV feeling truck-like over bumps. In Excite mode, the suspension improved, but fuel efficiency suffered. The Navigator's size was a challenge in urban settings, and its nearly three-ton weight tested the brakes on mountain roads.

The 2024 Hyundai Venue, with its 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine producing 121 horsepower, was more suited for city driving. Weighing just 2,612 pounds, it handled nimbly with a CVT maximizing power. The Venue's suspension struggled on rough roads, but it performed adequately on highways. Lacking AWD, it relied on front-wheel drive, but its 6.7 inches of ground clearance offered some versatility. The Venue achieved an EPA rating of 31 mpg in combined driving, slightly underperforming during testing.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator excelled in functionality, offering spacious seating across three rows and a generous cargo area. The test vehicle featured 30-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. Storage was ample, with various compartments throughout the cabin. The extended-length Navigator L model provided even more cargo space, making it ideal for carrying both passengers and luggage.

The 2024 Hyundai Venue, despite its compact size, offered decent comfort and practicality. The front seats included manual height adjustment and heated cushions. The back seat was better suited for two passengers, with limited storage and no rear air vents. Cargo space was comparable to a compact car, with 18.7 cubic feet available, expanding to 31.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator featured a 12-inch digital instrumentation display and a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The Sync 4 system included wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, along with a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D Audio System. The Lincoln Way app allowed for digital key access. However, the wireless charger overheated phones, and the rear-seat entertainment system was underutilized.

The 2024 Hyundai Venue's 8-inch touchscreen infotainment display was user-friendly, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Limited trim added a navigation system and SiriusXM satellite radio. However, the switch to wired connectivity for smartphone integration was a drawback. Despite this, the Venue's infotainment system was sophisticated, with effective voice recognition.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator came equipped with Lincoln Co-Pilot360 2.0, offering advanced driving assistance systems like Evasive Steering Assist and BlueCruise. However, BlueCruise struggled with certain driving conditions and lacked lane-change assist. The Navigator received a 5-star side-impact rating and a 4-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA.

The 2024 Hyundai Venue included Hyundai SmartSense, featuring forward-collision warning and lane-keep assist. The Limited trim added cyclist detection. While some systems issued inaccurate alerts, the Venue generally performed well. The IIHS rated it Good in crash tests, with an Acceptable rating for its headlights. The NHTSA awarded it a four-star overall rating.