2021 Lincoln Navigator vs 2021 Audi Q5

The 2021 Audi Q5 was a sharp-looking crossover SUV that embodied the Audi design language while maintaining its unique character. It featured an expressive front with LED headlights flanking the prominent Audi Singleframe grille, emphasizing width with horizontal elements. The body showcased crisp character lines, and the rear was marked by bold, large taillights. The Q5 exuded a classy, modern appearance with exceptional fit and finish. The plug-in hybrid version, with S-Line trim pieces and enhancements, stood out even more, offering standard 19-inch wheels or optional 20-inch wheels. Inside, the Q5 maintained a classy and modern aesthetic, packed with technology yet uncluttered. The smartly grouped buttons, switches, and knobs, along with high-quality materials like real wood and metal, contributed to a pleasing design. The 10.1-inch touchscreen was strategically placed for easy driver access, and the second row featured standard leather seating surfaces.

In contrast, the 2021 Lincoln Navigator was a testament to elegance and understatement, despite its massive size. It shared its side glass and overall footprint with the Ford Expedition but distinguished itself with unique design elements. The Navigator's grille, windows, headlights, and taillights were defined by simple rectilinear shapes, with tasteful chrome accents. The Pristine White model, with its monochromatic package, black wheels, and illuminated Lincoln logo, was particularly striking. The Navigator's interior impressed with seven color palettes and a focus on finer details, such as layered wood trim and a floating center console. The materials were of high quality, with tight panel gaps, and the Black Label trims offered even more luxurious textures. The Perfect Position seats, adjustable in 30 ways, provided exceptional comfort, making the Navigator's interior one of the most refined in its class.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV enhanced the driving experience with its plug-in hybrid system. It combined a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor, delivering a total output of 362 horsepower and 373 lb-ft of torque. This setup allowed the Q5 PHEV to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.0 seconds, while offering impressive fuel economy figures of 65 MPGe combined. The Q5 PHEV's battery could be recharged overnight with household current or in 2.4 hours with Level 2 service. It featured a seven-speed S Tronic automatic transmission with full-time Quattro all-wheel drive, and drivers could choose between different driving modes to optimize battery usage. The Q5's handling was characterized by a slightly stiff, sporty setting, with minimal body roll and powerful, predictable braking.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator, powered by a twin-turbo V6 engine from the Ford Raptor, delivered an impressive 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, provided the Navigator with a sprightly performance despite its size. The Navigator's 4WD system was smooth and responsive, with a towing capacity of 8,300 pounds for 4WD models and 8,700 pounds for RWD models. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, averaging in the teens, with an EPA-estimated 17 mpg combined. The Navigator's adaptive dampers offered a less refined ride compared to competitors, and its steering and brakes lacked the precision found in the Cadillac Escalade. Despite these drawbacks, the Navigator's low-end thrust and quiet cabin made it a comfortable highway cruiser.

The 2021 Audi Q5 offered a well-balanced interior space, with 25.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and up to 53.1 cubic feet with the second row folded. The second row provided 37.8 inches of legroom, 37.7 inches of headroom, and 56.5 inches of shoulder room, accommodating two adults comfortably. The front seats were supportive and adjustable, with heating and ventilation options. The Q5's interior was designed with functionality in mind, featuring smartly laid-out storage spaces and an uncluttered design.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator boasted a spacious interior, capable of seating six adults comfortably. It offered 19 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 57 cubic feet behind the second, and a total of 103 cubic feet with all seats folded. The Navigator L variant provided even more storage space. The second row featured heated seats and a three-zone climate system, with an optional console for additional controls. The front seats were highly adjustable and comfortable, with features like separate thigh extensions and massage programs. The Navigator's large windows and high driving position enhanced visibility, although parking could be challenging due to its size.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV featured Audi's latest MMI 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, complemented by the Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus 12.3-inch HD instrument cluster. This setup offered a high level of customization and futuristic tech. The Prestige Package included a Navigation Package, which optimized fuel consumption and battery usage in hybrid mode. The Q5 also featured an Integrated Toll Module, a Bang & Olufsen 3D audio system, and wireless Apple CarPlay.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator's technology felt somewhat dated compared to newer competitors. Its 10-inch touchscreen, while intuitive, lacked the advanced features found in the Cadillac Escalade. The Navigator's infotainment system did not support wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, and its cameras were low-resolution. However, it offered onboard 4G WiFi, wireless device charging, and a smartwatch app. The rear entertainment system included Roku media streaming and various connectivity options.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV had not been rated by the IIHS, but the 2020 gasoline model received top ratings in most categories. The NHTSA awarded the 2021 Q5 gasoline model five stars. Safety features included six airbags, an anti-lock braking system, Audi Pre Sense, and various driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control and a top-view camera system.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator received five stars overall from the NHTSA, with lower ratings for rollover resistance. It offered standard safety features like automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and inflatable rear seat belts.