2020 Lincoln Navigator vs 2021 Nissan Kicks

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator stood out as a luxurious flagship SUV, distinguished by its chrome accents and unique design elements that set it apart from its Ford Expedition counterpart. The Navigator featured a lattice-type grille with an illuminated Lincoln star, fender vents, and full-width taillights, all contributing to its distinct appearance. The Reserve Monochromatic Package added a custom touch with body-color enhancements and 22-inch black-painted wheels. Inside, the Navigator offered a Dark Slate leather interior with 30-way Perfect Position front seats, a panoramic glass roof, and high-quality materials, creating a convincingly luxurious atmosphere.

In contrast, the 2021 Nissan Kicks showcased a bolder exterior design, aligning with the new face of other Nissan models. It featured a deep V-motion design, thinner headlights, and a new bumper and LED taillight combination at the rear. The Kicks SR trim level boasted LED headlights, fog lights, and a sportier aesthetic with black heated mirrors and dark chrome grille accents. The interior maintained a familiar layout but incorporated higher quality materials, new seat designs, and a full center console armrest, enhancing its appeal. The Kicks offered a two-tone paint job option, emphasizing its stylish and modern look.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a robust twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque, surpassing the Ford Expedition's most powerful version. A 10-speed automatic transmission managed power distribution, with options for rear-wheel or four-wheel drive. The Navigator's towing capacity reached 8,700 pounds with RWD and 8,300 pounds with 4WD, aided by Pro Trailer Backup Assist. Despite its size, the Navigator offered strong acceleration and excellent body motion control, though fuel economy averaged 16.4 mpg. Its adaptive damping suspension struggled with impact harshness on rough roads, but the SUV excelled on open highways.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks came with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 122 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque, paired with a CVT and front-wheel drive. While not particularly powerful, the Kicks offered a good power-to-weight ratio, making it suitable for its size. The electric power-assisted steering and independent strut suspension contributed to nimble handling, and the Kicks maintained stability on icy roads. The CVT could become noisy under heavy acceleration, but the Kicks remained a practical choice with a fuel economy rating of 31 mpg city, 36 mpg highway, and 33 mpg combined. The Kicks SR featured an integrated dynamic-control module and adaptive cruise control, enhancing its driving experience.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator required a climb to enter, but once inside, it offered ample space and comfort for all passengers. The test vehicle's 30-way Perfect Position front seats, power-adjustable pedals, and heated steering wheel provided exceptional comfort. The second row offered a choice between a bench or captain's chairs, with heated rear seats and triple-zone climate control. The third-row seat provided unmatched 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 a maximum of 103.3 cubic feet in the standard model.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks made efficient use of its compact size, offering easy-to-reach controls and good small-item storage. The cabin featured a D-shaped steering wheel, adjustable front seats, and a 60/40 split-folding rear seat. The Kicks provided best-in-class front seat legroom, though hip room was limited for larger drivers. The rear seats accommodated adults comfortably, and the available tonneau cover offered hidden storage. The Kicks' interior was practical and well-designed for its class.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator's Sync 3 infotainment system was its least impressive feature, with slow loading times. However, it offered Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a WiFi hotspot, and wireless device charging. The "Phone As A Key" technology allowed smartphone-based vehicle access. The 20-speaker Revel Ultima audio system provided a compelling audio experience, and additional technologies included a surround-view camera system and a head-up display.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks offered a competitive array of technology features, including a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth. The Kicks SR Premium Package included a class-exclusive Bose Personal Plus sound system with headrest speakers. A surround-view monitor and WiFi hotspot were available, enhancing convenience and connectivity. The Kicks' technology offerings were impressive for its class.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator featured the Lincoln Co-Pilot360 suite of ADAS, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, and adaptive cruise control. The Navigator received 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 Nissan Kicks came standard with Nissan Safety Shield 360, offering automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind-spot warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Kicks included 10 airbags and LATCH connections. The 2020 model received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, and the 2021 model was expected to improve with new headlights.