2021 Lincoln Navigator vs 2022 Land Rover Range Rover

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator was a testament to elegance and understatement, a feat not easily achieved by a three-ton vehicle. While it shared some design elements with the Ford Expedition, the Navigator stood out with its unique features, such as the body-color grille and sweeping LED running lights. The Pristine White model, with its black wheels and illuminated Lincoln logo, was particularly striking during winter tests. Inside, the Navigator impressed with its seven color palettes and modern design elements like the floating center console and minimalist digital instrument panel. The materials used were of high quality, and the Black Label trims offered even more luxurious textures and softer leather.

In contrast, the 2022 Land Rover Range Rover was more of an evolution than a complete redesign. Its exterior maintained the broad, rounded face and unadorned sheet metal of its predecessor, with subtle changes like the vertical accent strip under the mirrors. The most significant update was the rear, which featured thin LED strips integrated into a darker trim element. Inside, the Range Rover simplified its design with fewer buttons and a larger touchscreen, giving it a modern look. The materials used were premium, with leather and rich wood trim elements enhancing the luxurious feel. The Range Rover's solid build quality was evident, with no creaks even on rough roads.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a formidable twin-turbo V6 engine, borrowed from the Ford Raptor, producing 450 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, provided a sprightly performance for such a large SUV. The Navigator's 4WD system was smooth and efficient, offering a towing capacity of up to 8,700 pounds with the RWD model. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, averaging in the teens, aligning with the EPA-estimated 17-mpg combined rating. While the Navigator's adaptive dampers were standard, its suspension felt rudimentary compared to competitors, and the steering and brakes lacked the precision found in the Cadillac Escalade.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover offered two powertrains: the base P400 with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six and a mild hybrid component, producing 395 horsepower, and the P530 with a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8, delivering 523 horsepower. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD. The P400's acceleration was impressive, reaching 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, while the V8 provided even more power. The Range Rover's handling was surprisingly agile for its size, with well-managed body roll and standard rear-wheel steering aiding maneuverability. Its off-road capabilities were enhanced by the Terrain Response system, and the ride quality was smooth and quiet.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator offered ample space, with a boxy design that accommodated six adults comfortably. It was technically a seven-passenger SUV, but the third row's middle seat was best suited for children. The cargo space was generous, with 19 cubic feet behind the third row, 57 behind the second, and 103 in total. The Navigator Reserve featured heated rear seats and a three-zone climate system, but lacked some features offered by German competitors. The front seats were highly adjustable and comfortable, with a high driving position providing excellent visibility.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover provided a spacious interior, enhanced by large windows and a panoramic sunroof. The front seats were cushioned for long-distance comfort, with available massage functions. Storage options were plentiful, with two glove boxes, a wireless charging pad, and a large center console bin. The second row offered ample space for taller passengers, with power recline and sliding adjustments. The optional third row was accessible with a button, though headroom was limited for adults. Cargo space was 17.1 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 93 cubic feet with the seats folded. The split tailgate and air suspension height adjustment aided loading.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator featured a 10-inch touchscreen, which felt small compared to newer models. Its infotainment system was intuitive, though it lacked wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 20-speaker Revel Ultima stereo was good, but not exceptional. The Navigator offered 4G WiFi, wireless device charging, and a smartwatch app, with remote app functions included for five years. The rear entertainment system included Roku media streaming and other connections, while drive mode animations added a touch of flair.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover boasted a larger 13-inch touchscreen with the new Pivi Pro system, offering sharper graphics and quicker responses. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, complementing the wireless charging pad. The Meridian audio system delivered impressive sound quality, with an optional 35-speaker upgrade available. Other tech features included Amazon Alexa integration, remote automated parking, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and remote control via a smartphone app.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator received five stars overall from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, with four stars for rollover resistance in 4WD models. It lacked knee airbags, but offered optional inflatable rear seat belts. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and auto high beams. Adaptive cruise control was optional, though it didn't match competitors in self-steering capabilities.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover had not been crash-tested by major safety organizations. It came standard with frontal collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, parking sensors, and a surround-view camera system. While adequately equipped, it lacked some advanced features offered by rivals, such as advanced high beams and emergency stop functions.