2020 Lincoln Corsair vs 2019 INFINITI QX50

The 2019 INFINITI QX50 was wider and taller than its predecessor, offering two extra inches of ground clearance and more interior space, including a trunk with 31.4 cubic feet of space behind modular rear seats. Despite the increased cargo capacity, rear legroom remained generous, accommodating even taller passengers comfortably, although the panoramic sunroof slightly compromised headroom. The redesigned interior was spacious and attractive, featuring high-quality materials and a new infotainment system. The cabin was notably quiet, thanks to a noise-cancelling system, allowing for easy conversations at highway speeds. The QX50's base "Pure" trim started at $36,550, offering a range of standard features, while the "Luxe" and "Essential" trims added more luxury and technology options, with the top-tier trim priced at $43,350. The "Essential" trim allowed for additional packages, such as the $7,500 Sensory package, which included advanced tech and luxury features, and the ProPilot assist system for semi-autonomous driving.

The 2020 Lincoln Corsair distinguished itself with a unique design that never felt like a Ford, despite sharing some components with the Escape. Its refined appearance featured a low hood line, restrained chrome grille, and teardrop headlights, with J-shaped LED running lamps reminiscent of a Jaguar. The Corsair's tall roof gently sloped to a Land Rover-like edge, and the clamshell tailgate was elegantly designed. The body sat low on optional 20-inch wheels, with "Lincoln" spelled out wide on the tailgate, exuding confidence. Inside, the Corsair's dashboard was rich with materials and details, featuring curved matte-finish wood, leather with contrast stitching, and chrome trim. The center stack appeared to float, with gear-selector buttons and horizontal air vents. While the lower dash had some hard plastic, the overall feel was luxurious, with fashion-forward color combinations.

The 2019 INFINITI QX50 featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, boasting the world's first mass-produced variable-compression engine. This innovative engine could adjust its compression ratio between 8:1 and 14:1 for power or efficiency, producing 268 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. Despite the advanced technology, the engine's performance was underwhelming, with a 0-60 time of 6.4 seconds, slower than the previous V6 model. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) struggled to manage the power, resulting in a less-than-smooth driving experience, especially in city driving. The QX50's fuel economy was EPA-estimated at 24 city and 31 highway mpg, with a combined rating of 27 mpg, but real-world tests showed lower efficiency. The ride prioritized comfort over sportiness, but the Direct Adaptive Steering system lacked consistency and feel, detracting from the driving experience.

The 2020 Lincoln Corsair offered two turbocharged 4-cylinder engines paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The 2.0T trim featured a 2.0-liter engine with 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, while the 2.3T trim had a 2.3-liter engine with 295 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. The transmission occasionally hiccupped in lower gears but generally provided a smooth ride. The Corsair's steering lacked road feel, but the suspension offered excellent control and composure, even at high speeds. The adaptive dampers in the 2.3T trim firmed up the ride in Excite mode, but the overall driving experience was more about comfort than sportiness. Fuel economy for the 2.3T was EPA-estimated at 21 city, 28 highway, and 24 combined mpg, with the 2.0T AWD rated similarly. A plug-in hybrid trim was also on the way, promising an electric range of over 25 miles.

The 2019 INFINITI QX50's interior was a mix of high-quality materials and a somewhat cluttered design. While the fit and finish were impressive, the abundance of technology and controls made the dashboard appear busy. The infotainment system suffered from input delays, particularly in the navigation system, leading to frustration. The shifter's design, with a separate "PARK" button, was unconventional and could lead to confusion. Despite these issues, the QX50 offered ample interior space and comfort, with a focus on luxury.

The 2020 Lincoln Corsair provided a comfortable and airy driving experience, with seat controls conveniently located on the doors. The Perfect Position seats offered 24 ways of adjustment, including massage settings, and rear passengers enjoyed sliding and reclining seats. Cargo space was somewhat limited, with 28 cubic feet behind the seats and 58 when folded. The Sync 3 infotainment system was user-friendly, with logical menu organization. However, the engine auto stop-start control was not easily accessible, and the digital instrument panel could become crowded with information. The center console was spacious, with a sliding storage bin and a wireless phone charger.

The 2019 INFINITI QX50 offered a range of advanced safety technologies, but many were only available with the top-tier Essential trim. The $2,000 ProActive package included intelligent cruise control, blind-spot intervention, and lane-departure warning, along with ProPilot assist. While the base model was well-equipped, accessing the full suite of safety features required a higher starting price. The infotainment system, despite its frustrations, offered a comprehensive list of standard features in the Essential trim.

The 2020 Lincoln Corsair featured innovative technology, including the option to use a smartphone as an ignition key through the Lincoln Way app. The head-up display was wide and information-rich, displaying directions and controls for the semi-automated driving feature. The Co-Pilot360 Plus system provided advanced safety features, including lane-keep assist and evasive steering assist. The instrument panel was minimalist, with voice recognition and destination searches being fast and accurate. In-car WiFi was available, but software updates required an external WiFi connection.

The 2019 INFINITI QX50's safety features were limited by trim level, with some systems unavailable on the base model. The vehicle had not been tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety at the time.

The 2020 Lincoln Corsair received a Top Safety Pick rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, with top scores in all crash tests and for its forward emergency braking system. The Co-Pilot360 system included a range of standard safety features, while the Co-Pilot360 Plus added semi-automated functionality. Rear side airbags and knee airbags for both driver and passenger were standard, enhancing safety.