2021 BMW X3 vs 2021 Lincoln Navigator

The 2021 BMW X3, part of the third generation introduced in 2018, had undergone several updates by 2020, including the addition of a plug-in hybrid model and M performance variants. This generation of the X3 was a significant refinement, offering a luxury level of refinement that BMW had previously struggled to achieve in its smaller SUVs. The exterior of the X3 mirrored the larger BMW X5, providing a downsized yet sophisticated appearance. Inside, the X3 featured a cold, mechanical interior styling typical of BMW, which, while not as visually appealing as the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, offered a more functional dashboard. The 2021 X3 was available in several trims, including the sDrive30i, xDrive30i, M40i, and the xDrive30e plug-in hybrid, with the high-performance X3 M reviewed separately. Standard features included 18-inch alloy wheels, synthetic leather upholstery, and a 10.2-inch infotainment system, with numerous options for added luxury and convenience.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator, in contrast, was a testament to elegance and understatement, despite its massive size and three-ton weight. While it shared some design elements with the Ford Expedition, the Navigator stood out with its unique features and luxurious feel. The exterior was defined by simple rectilinear shapes, with body-color options and chrome accents adding a touch of class. The interior was equally impressive, offering seven color palettes and a modern, muted design. The materials used were of high quality, with tight panel gaps and luxurious Black Label trims available. The Navigator's Perfect Position seats were a highlight, offering 30 different adjustments for ultimate comfort. Despite its size, the Navigator's interior felt refined and spacious, rivaling even the more expensive Range Rover in terms of luxury.

The 2021 BMW X3 offered a range of powertrains to suit different driving preferences. The sDrive30i and xDrive30i were equipped with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 248 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The sDrive30i featured rear-wheel drive, while the xDrive30i came with all-wheel drive, providing solid performance for city and highway driving. The xDrive30e plug-in hybrid delivered 288 horsepower and offered brisk acceleration, particularly at low speeds, with a 17-mile electric-only range. For those seeking a more exhilarating driving experience, the M40i trim featured a 382-horsepower twin-turbo inline-six engine, offering robust acceleration and enhanced cornering abilities. The X3 M performance model, with 473 horsepower, catered to those with a need for speed and family space.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator, on the other hand, was powered by a formidable twin-turbo V6 engine, borrowed from the Ford Raptor. This 3.5-liter engine produced an impressive 450 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque, making the Navigator feel surprisingly agile for its size. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, the Navigator was available in both rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive configurations. The 4WD system was smooth and responsive, offering a towing capacity of 8,300 pounds for 4WD models and 8,700 pounds for RWD models. While fuel economy was not its strong suit, averaging in the teens, the Navigator excelled in highway refinement and power. The adaptive dampers provided a decent ride, though not as supple as some competitors, and the steering and brakes, while not as precise as the Cadillac Escalade, were adequate for the Navigator's size.

The 2021 BMW X3 offered impressive interior space for a small luxury SUV. With the rear seats folded, it provided up to 62.7 cubic feet of cargo space, and 28.7 cubic feet with the seats in use. A power liftgate was standard, with an optional hands-free version available. The X3's cabin was spacious, with ample headroom and legroom for front and rear passengers, making it comfortable for long trips. The driver and front passenger benefited from real buttons and dials, complementing the main touchscreen and reducing the learning curve for new users.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator, in contrast, boasted a cavernous interior, akin to a small bedroom. It could comfortably accommodate six adults, with an optional bench seat increasing capacity to eight. The boxy design contributed to generous cargo space, with 19 cubic feet behind the third row, 57 behind the second, and 103 in total. The long-wheelbase Navigator L offered even more storage. The rear glass opened separately from the tailgate, adding convenience. The Navigator's front seats were exceptionally comfortable, with numerous adjustments and massage functions. Visibility was excellent, though parking could be challenging due to its size.

The 2021 BMW X3 featured a 10.2-inch touchscreen running the iDrive infotainment system, known for its ease of use. It offered both touch and dial operation, catering to different user preferences. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, with Android Auto available as an option. Additional options included wireless device charging, a digital instrument panel, and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon stereo. Gesture control was also available, though it could be triggered unintentionally by hand movements.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator's technology, while not as advanced as some competitors, was still impressive. The 10-inch touchscreen, though smaller than some rivals, was intuitive and shared its interface with Ford, albeit with a unique Lincoln skin. It offered voice recognition, onboard 4G WiFi, wireless device charging, and a smartwatch app. The rear entertainment system included Roku streaming and various connectivity options. While the Navigator lacked some of the more advanced features found in competitors, its simplicity was appreciated by some users.

The 2021 BMW X3 came equipped with a range of advanced driver-assistance features, including automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, and lane departure warning. It also included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and front-and-rear parking sensors. Optional safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and a head-up display.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator received a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, with five stars in most tests except for rollover resistance. It offered standard safety features such as automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and auto high beams. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, though it lacked the advanced self-steering capabilities of some competitors.