2021 Lincoln Navigator vs 2021 Acura RDX

The 2021 Acura RDX, especially with the A-Spec Package, was a visually appealing SUV. Its design changes were subtle yet effective, conveying a sporty vibe without overpromising on performance. Acura avoided the rugged off-road look, focusing instead on a sleek design suitable for daily driving and road trips. The A-Spec trim sat in the middle of the RDX's hierarchy, with a starting price of $38,200, escalating to $47,625 with additional features like the SH-AWD system and premium paint. Inside, the A-Spec offered a sporty ambiance with features like sport seats, a sport steering wheel, and unique red ambient lighting, although the gauge cluster's red markings on a brushed silver background were hard to read.

In contrast, the 2021 Lincoln Navigator exuded elegance and understatement, a challenging feat for a large SUV. Despite sharing some design elements with the Ford Expedition, the Navigator stood out with its unique features and luxurious feel. The exterior boasted simple rectilinear shapes, a monochromatic grille, and classy chrome accents. The interior impressed with its seven color palettes and modern design elements like a floating center console and minimalist digital instrument panel. The Navigator's materials and craftsmanship were top-notch, with options for even more luxurious Black Label trims. The Perfect Position seats offered unparalleled comfort with 30-way adjustability, making the Navigator a standout in terms of interior refinement.

The 2021 Acura RDX was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. It featured a 10-speed automatic transmission and offered an optional SH-AWD system, enhancing handling and driving enjoyment. The RDX's Integrated Dynamics System allowed drivers to choose between various driving modes, adjusting powertrain and suspension settings. While the A-Spec trim added sporty elements, it lacked the adaptive dampers of the Advance Package, which could have improved ride quality. Despite some limitations, the RDX A-Spec was rewarding to drive, with precise steering and fade-resistant brakes.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator, on the other hand, was equipped with a powerful twin-turbo V6 engine, producing 450 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, provided impressive acceleration and a satisfying engine sound. The Navigator offered both RWD and 4WD options, with a towing capacity of up to 8,700 pounds. However, its fuel economy was poor, averaging in the teens. While the Navigator's adaptive dampers were standard, its suspension and steering lacked the refinement of competitors like the Cadillac Escalade. Nevertheless, the Navigator excelled in highway refinement and power, with paddle shifters adding a touch of sportiness.

The 2021 Acura RDX, though classified as a compact SUV, offered impressive passenger and cargo space. Its front seats were comfortable and supportive, with 12-way power adjustment and heating and ventilation in the A-Spec trim. However, rear-seat comfort was compromised by a low and flat cushion, leading to a lack of leg support. The RDX's cargo space was competitive, with 29.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 58.9 cubic feet with the seats folded. Despite some storage limitations, the RDX provided practical solutions like a deep storage well and multiple compartments under the cargo floor.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator boasted a spacious interior, capable of accommodating six adults comfortably. It offered a seven-passenger configuration, with an optional bench for eight passengers. The Navigator's boxy shape contributed to its generous cargo space, with 19 cubic feet behind the third row and 103 cubic feet in total. The long-wheelbase Navigator L provided even more storage capacity. The Navigator's second-row seats were heated, and the front seats offered exceptional comfort with numerous adjustments and massage functions. While parking was challenging due to its size, the Navigator's large windows and high driving position aided visibility.

The 2021 Acura RDX featured the True Touchpad Interface infotainment system, which used a touch-sensing pad instead of a touchscreen. While it improved upon Lexus's approach, it still required a learning curve and could be distracting. The RDX offered smartphone integration, voice recognition, and a premium audio system, but the TTI system was not ideal. Acura provided features like Key by Amazon In-Car Delivery and a 16-speaker audio system, enhancing the overall experience.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator's technology felt dated compared to newer competitors. Its 10-inch touchscreen was small, and the infotainment system lacked wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the software was intuitive, and voice recognition was fast and accurate. The Navigator offered features like onboard 4G WiFi, wireless device charging, and a smartwatch app. The rear entertainment system included Roku media streaming, and the drive modes displayed animations on the instrument panel. While not cutting-edge, the Navigator's technology was functional and user-friendly.

The 2021 Acura RDX came equipped with AcuraWatch, a suite of safety features including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. However, blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert were only available with the Technology Package. The RDX earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it received four stars in frontal-impact and rollover resistance tests.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator received five stars overall from the NHTSA, with four stars for 4WD models and three stars for RWD models in rollover resistance. It offered standard safety features like automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring, with optional inflatable rear seat belts. However, the Navigator's adaptive cruise control lacked the advanced self-steering capabilities of some competitors.