2020 Ford Expedition vs 2020 Lincoln Navigator

The 2020 Ford Expedition, last redesigned in 2018, presented a clean and somewhat understated design that some might have considered boring. However, this simplicity was likely to age well, making it a practical choice for those planning to keep their SUV for many years. The King Ranch edition stood out with its 22-inch aluminum wheels, mesh grille insert, LED headlights, and unique gray-painted lower exterior trim. The Star White metallic paint added a touch of elegance, although the taillight shape and the body-colored C-pillar were points of contention. Inside, the King Ranch featured Del Rio leather in Mesa over Ebony, adorned with King Ranch logos, though the presence of hard plastic in lower trims was a drawback, especially given the price point.

In contrast, the 2020 Lincoln Navigator differentiated itself with luxurious styling elements, including a lattice-type grille and an illuminated Lincoln star. The Lincoln Embrace lighting system added a welcoming touch, while black roof pillars created a wraparound glass effect. The Navigator offered a new Reserve Monochromatic Package, enhancing its custom look with body-color enhancements and 22-inch black-painted wheels. Inside, the Navigator boasted a Dark Slate leather interior with 30-way Perfect Position front seats, a 10-inch infotainment touchscreen, and high-quality materials throughout. The panoramic glass roof and digital instrumentation further emphasized its luxury status, making it a convincing flagship SUV.

The 2020 Ford Expedition was powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, delivering 375 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 470 lb-ft of torque at 2,250 rpm. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, provided ample power and a pleasant exhaust note. The Expedition offered a towing capacity of up to 9,300 pounds with rear-wheel drive and 9,200 pounds with 4WD. Its independent rear suspension contributed to improved ride and handling, although the oversized wheels sometimes resulted in a busy ride. Fuel economy averaged 17.7 mpg, slightly below the EPA rating of 19 mpg.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator featured a more powerful twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. This engine, also mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission, offered strong acceleration and multiple drive modes for various conditions. The Navigator's towing capacity reached 8,700 pounds with rear-wheel drive, aided by Pro Trailer Backup Assist. Despite its size, the Navigator's adaptive damping suspension provided excellent body motion control, though impact harshness was noticeable on imperfect roads. Fuel economy averaged 16.4 mpg, slightly below the EPA's 18 mpg estimate.

The 2020 Ford Expedition excelled in towing, cargo, and passenger capacity. Power running boards facilitated entry, and the interior offered comfortable seating, especially in the front with heated and ventilated seats. The second-row captain's chairs provided first-class accommodations, and the third-row seat was genuinely comfortable for adults. Cargo space in the standard-length model was 19.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 57.5 cubic feet with the third row folded. The Expedition MAX offered even more space, with 34.3 cubic feet behind the third row and 121.5 cubic feet with all seats folded.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator required a climb to enter, but once inside, it offered ample space and comfort. The 30-way Perfect Position front seats, part of the Luxury Package, were exceptionally comfortable, and the second row could be configured with captain's chairs and a center console. The third-row seat provided class-leading legroom and thigh support. Cargo volumes were impressive, with 19.3 cubic feet behind the third row in the standard model, expanding to 103.3 cubic feet with all seats folded. The Navigator L offered even more space, with 34.3 cubic feet behind the third row and 120.2 cubic feet with all seats folded.

The 2020 Ford Expedition featured an 8-inch Sync 3 infotainment system, which, while easy to use, was slow to load and respond. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, FordPass Connect with a WiFi hotspot, and a Bang & Olufsen sound system. The Pro Trailer Backup Assist was a notable feature for towing enthusiasts, allowing for easier trailer maneuvering.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator also used the Sync 3 system, which was similarly slow. However, it offered additional features like "Phone As A Key" technology, wireless device charging, and a 20-speaker Revel Ultima audio system. The Navigator's technology suite included a surround-view camera system and a head-up display, though the optional rear-seat entertainment system was not present in the test vehicle.

The 2020 Ford Expedition came equipped with Ford Co-Pilot360, a suite of advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assistance. It earned a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with a 4-star rollover resistance rating.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator featured Lincoln Co-Pilot360, which included similar ADAS features such as forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assistance, and adaptive cruise control. It also received a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, though the RWD model had a 3-star rollover resistance rating.