2021 Lincoln Navigator vs 2021 Buick Encore GX

The 2021 Buick Encore GX was praised for its styling, which was a significant improvement over the original Encore, often referred to as “the shoe” by GM insiders. The Encore GX offered a sleek design without awkward proportions or unsatisfying lines. It was available in three trim levels: Preferred, Select, and Essence, with an optional Sport Touring package for a sportier look. Buyers could choose between front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD), with two turbocharged three-cylinder engines available. The test model featured the Essence trim with a 1.3-liter turbo engine, but not AWD, and included several upgrades, bringing the MSRP to $35,065. Despite the high price, Buick offered significant discounts for GM customers and attractive lease deals for non-GM owners. Inside, the Encore GX provided expected quality for its segment, though the interior design was not as refined as the exterior. The placement of analog gauges and issues with the head-up display (HUD) detracted from the overall experience.

In contrast, the 2021 Lincoln Navigator exuded elegance and sophistication, setting itself apart from its Ford Expedition roots. The Navigator's design featured simple rectilinear shapes, a body-color grille, and tasteful chrome accents, creating a classy appearance. The Pristine White test model with black wheels and an illuminated Lincoln logo was particularly striking. Inside, the Navigator impressed with its seven color palettes and attention to detail, such as layered wood trim and a minimalist digital instrument panel. The materials were of high quality, and the Black Label trims offered even more luxurious options. The Perfect Position seats provided exceptional comfort with 30-way adjustability. Overall, the Navigator's interior was spacious and refined, offering a premium experience for its occupants.

The 2021 Buick Encore GX offered two turbocharged three-cylinder engines, with the 1.2-liter engine producing 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque. The larger 1.3-liter engine delivered 155 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque, providing a more spirited driving experience. Despite the power, the Encore GX's performance was described as adequate, with enough power for highway cruising but lacking refinement. The FWD models featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT), while AWD models used a nine-speed automatic transmission. The ride quality was inconsistent, with a brittle feel over rough roads and a lack of quietness inside the cabin. The Encore GX handled corners well and had effective brakes, but the steering was light, making it easy to maneuver. Fuel economy averaged 28.2 mpg, slightly below the EPA estimate.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator, powered by a twin-turbo V6 engine from the Ford Raptor, produced an impressive 450 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, provided a responsive and powerful driving experience. The Navigator's 4WD system was smooth and offered a towing capacity of up to 8,700 pounds. However, fuel economy was poor, averaging in the teens, consistent with the EPA-estimated 17-mpg combined rating. The Navigator's adaptive dampers provided a less refined ride compared to competitors, and the steering and brakes lacked the precision found in the Cadillac Escalade. Despite these shortcomings, the Navigator excelled in highway refinement and power, with paddle shifters adding a touch of sportiness.

The 2021 Buick Encore GX offered a high seating position with supportive front seats, though lacking lateral bolstering. The rear seats were less comfortable, with limited legroom and a flat seatback. Interior storage was ample, with a trunk capacity of 23.5 cubic feet, expandable to 50.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The test vehicle featured a hands-free power liftgate and a fold-flat front passenger seat for added convenience.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator provided a spacious interior, accommodating up to eight passengers with its optional bench seating. The boxy design allowed for generous cargo space, with 19 cubic feet behind the third row, 57 behind the second, and 103 in total. The Navigator L variant offered even more storage capacity. The test model included heated second-row seats and a three-zone climate system. The front seats were highly adjustable and comfortable, with excellent visibility from the driver's seat. However, parking the large SUV was challenging, despite the 360-degree cameras.

The 2021 Buick Encore GX featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It included Bluetooth connectivity for two devices, a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot, and steering wheel-mounted stereo controls. The test vehicle had additional features like a navigation system, voice recognition, and a surround-view camera. Despite the added packages, it lacked the available Bose premium sound system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with quick response times and intuitive controls.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator's 10-inch touchscreen felt outdated compared to newer competitors. It lacked wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the cameras were low-resolution. However, the software was intuitive, with fast voice recognition and a unique Lincoln interface. The Navigator offered 4G WiFi, wireless charging, and a smartphone app for remote functions. The rear entertainment system included Roku streaming and various connectivity options. While not as advanced as some rivals, the Navigator's technology was straightforward and effective.

The 2021 Buick Encore GX came standard with Buick Driver Confidence, which included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams. Blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control were available, along with Teen Driver technology and a Tire Fill Alert system. The Encore GX received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, though the IIHS had not tested it.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with lower scores for rollover resistance. It lacked knee airbags but offered optional inflatable rear seat belts. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Adaptive cruise control was optional, though it did not offer advanced lane-keeping capabilities.