2020 Lincoln Navigator vs 2019 BMW X5

The 2019 BMW X5 was designed to offer a sedan-like driving experience despite its 5,000-pound weight and tall stature. BMW focused on providing a smooth ride on pavement rather than off-road capabilities, which was a forward-thinking move. The X5 could seat five passengers, with an optional third row that was cramped for adults. It featured two turbocharged engine options: a 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder and a 4.4-liter V8, both paired with a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission. The base xDrive40i model started at $60,700 and included a suite of safety features and luxury amenities. Various packages allowed for further customization, adding features like keyless entry, satellite radio, and advanced driver assistance systems.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator, sharing its platform with the Ford Expedition, distinguished itself with unique styling elements and the Lincoln Embrace lighting system. The Navigator featured a lattice-type grille, illuminated star logo, and full-width taillights. The new Reserve Monochromatic Package added a custom look with body-color enhancements and 22-inch black-painted wheels. The Navigator was available in standard and long-wheelbase versions, with options for rear-wheel or four-wheel drive. The test vehicle, a standard-length Navigator Reserve with 4WD, was priced at $92,385. It boasted a luxurious interior with 30-way Perfect Position front seats, digital instrumentation, a 10-inch infotainment touchscreen, and high-quality materials.

The 2019 BMW X5's xDrive40i model featured a turbocharged inline 6-cylinder engine producing 335 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in just over 5 seconds. The xDrive50i's 4.4-liter V8 delivered 456 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, reaching 60 mph in around 4 seconds. The 8-speed ZF automatic transmission provided smooth and efficient gear changes. The X5's Cluster Architecture platform, combining steel, aluminum, and carbon fiber, contributed to its strength and performance. The optional air suspension allowed for adjustable ride height and improved bump absorption, making for a smooth yet sporty ride.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine generating 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Navigator offered multiple drive modes, including Conserve, Normal, Excite, Slippery, and Deep Conditions. It had a maximum towing capacity of 8,700 pounds with rear-wheel drive and 8,300 pounds with four-wheel drive. The Pro Trailer Backup Assist system made towing easier. The Navigator's adaptive damping suspension provided excellent body motion control, though impact harshness was noticeable with 22-inch wheels. The SUV averaged 16.4 mpg on the testing loop, slightly below the EPA's combined estimate of 18 mpg.

The 2019 BMW X5's interior featured aggressive angles and dual 12.3-inch screens for the updated iDrive infotainment interface. However, the materials could feel cheap without expensive upgrades. The seats were somewhat uncomfortable, with limited thigh support and no ventilation. The X5 offered ample space, with 33.9 cubic feet of cargo room expandable to 72.3 cubic feet. The air suspension made loading easier, and the X5 could tow up to 7,200 pounds.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator required a climb to enter, but once inside, it offered plenty of room for all passengers. The 30-way Perfect Position front seats were exceptionally comfortable, though finding the right settings took time. The second row could be configured with a bench or captain's chairs, and the third row provided ample legroom and thigh support. Cargo space was class-leading, with 19.3 cubic feet behind the third row, 57.5 cubic feet behind the second row, and 103.3 cubic feet in total. The longer Navigator L offered even more space.

The 2019 BMW X5's technology was disappointing. Gesture control was unreliable, screens were less customizable than competitors, and voice controls were picky. The iDrive interface was well-designed but took time to learn. The Driving Assistance Plus package offered limited hands-off driving but was not very effective at high speeds. The Extended Traffic Jam Assistant worked well in stop-and-go traffic. Other options included Parking Assistant Plus, a night-vision system, and a rear-seat entertainment system. The Harman Kardon stereo provided excellent sound, with an optional Bowers & Wilkins system available.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator's Sync 3 infotainment system was slow to load but offered Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The voice recognition system worked reasonably well but was not as advanced as some competitors. The Reserve's Luxury Package included a 20-speaker Revel Ultima audio system with three listening profiles. Additional technologies included a surround-view camera system and a head-up display. The optional Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system added dual 10-inch displays and wireless headphones.

The 2019 BMW X5 featured a new brake-by-wire setup, providing a nearly natural feel with some unfamiliar feedback during the last moments of braking. The X5 received a 4-star rating from the NHTSA, with 5-star ratings in side crash tests. The IIHS named it a Top Safety Pick+ with top scores in all tests.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator came with the Lincoln Co-Pilot360 collection of advanced driving assistance systems, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, blind-spot warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Navigator's adaptive cruise control operated with refinement, and the lane-keeping assistance system was subtle yet effective. The Navigator received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, though the RWD model had a three-star rollover resistance rating. The IIHS had not tested the 2020 model.