2021 Hyundai Kona vs 2020 Lincoln Navigator

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator stood out with its luxurious design, featuring chrome and brightwork that differentiated it from the Ford Expedition, on which it was based. The Lincoln Embrace lighting system sequentially illuminated the SUV to welcome its owner, adding a touch of sophistication. The Navigator's lattice-type grille insert, illuminated star logo, and full-width taillights were distinctive design elements. The test vehicle, a standard-length Navigator Reserve with 4WD, showcased a Dark Slate leather interior with 30-way Perfect Position front seats, a 10-inch infotainment touchscreen, and a panoramic glass roof, all contributing to its luxurious feel.

In contrast, the 2021 Hyundai Kona offered a funky and playful design aimed at younger buyers. The front featured a busy grille flanked by multiple lighting elements, while the rear had a more subdued crossover shape. Inside, the Kona maintained a fun attitude with neat seat patterns and a well-organized interior. The infotainment system touchscreen was mounted high on the dash, and the layout was simple and intuitive. Higher trims offered leather upgrades for the steering wheel and seats, enhancing the overall feel without being overly whimsical.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. This setup allowed for strong acceleration, although the engine note lacked the rumble of a V8. The Navigator offered multiple drive modes, including Conserve, Normal, Excite, Slippery, and Deep Conditions, with a towing capacity of up to 8,700 pounds. However, fuel economy was a downside, averaging 16.4 mpg on the testing loop. The SUV's adaptive damping suspension provided excellent body motion control, though impact harshness was noticeable with 22-inch wheels.

The 2021 Hyundai Kona came with two powertrain options: a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine with 195 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. The base engine was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, while the turbo engine had a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. The Kona handled well, offering a fun and agile driving experience, though the dual-clutch transmission was less smooth at low speeds. Fuel economy was a strong point, with the base engine and FWD returning an EPA-estimated 27/33/30 mpg.

Entering the 2020 Lincoln Navigator required climbing up into the SUV, but once inside, passengers enjoyed ample space and comfort. The test vehicle's 30-way Perfect Position front seats were exceptionally comfortable, and the second row offered a choice between a bench or captain's chairs. The third row provided class-leading legroom and thigh support. Cargo space was also impressive, with up to 103.3 cubic feet in the standard-length model and 120.2 cubic feet in the Navigator L.

The 2021 Hyundai Kona offered decent headroom and legroom for front-seat passengers, with controls and displays within easy reach. The front seats were wide and well-padded but lacked support for spirited driving. Rear-seat passengers had good headroom but limited legroom, and large rear-facing car seats could be problematic. Cargo space was limited compared to competitors, though the rear seats folded to expand the area. Small-item storage was generous, with large door pockets and a spacious center console.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator's Sync 3 infotainment system was its least impressive feature, taking time to load content. However, it offered Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Lincoln Connect services, and wireless device charging. The 20-speaker Revel Ultima audio system provided a compelling audio experience. Additional technologies included a surround-view camera system and a head-up display, though the test vehicle lacked the optional rear-seat entertainment system.

The 2021 Hyundai Kona came equipped with an eight-inch infotainment system touchscreen, Bluetooth, six speakers, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and USB inputs. Available tech included SiriusXM radio, navigation, wireless device charging, a Harman Kardon audio system, and a 10.25-inch touchscreen. The infotainment software was simple, colorful, and responsive, making it easy to navigate and use.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator featured the Lincoln Co-Pilot360 collection of advanced driving assistance systems, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, and adaptive cruise control. The Navigator earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, though its RWD version had a three-star rollover resistance rating. The IIHS had not tested the 2020 model.

The 2021 Hyundai Kona earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, lane-following assist, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and rear occupant alert. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, a head-up display, and parking sensors.