2021 Ford Bronco vs 2021 Lincoln Navigator

The 2021 Ford Bronco had been a long-awaited revival, drawing inspiration from its 1966 predecessor. The new model embraced a "Retrofuturism" design, blending classic aesthetics with modern technology. The Bronco featured a single-piece grille with bold B-R-O-N-C-O lettering, round headlights, and removable off-road sights on the hood. It came in two-door and four-door configurations, with a choice of a black soft-top or a modular removable hardtop. The interior combined retro styling with modern tech, including a color touchscreen and a digitized instrument cluster. The Bronco's rugged design was complemented by practical features like removable doors and fenders, making it a versatile off-road vehicle.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator, on the other hand, exuded elegance and sophistication. Despite sharing its footprint with the Ford Expedition, the Navigator stood out with its unique design elements. The exterior featured simple rectilinear shapes, a body-color grille, and full-width taillights. The interior impressed with seven color palettes, high-quality materials, and a minimalist digital instrument panel. The Navigator's spacious cabin could comfortably accommodate six adults, with power-folding third-row seats and optional second-row captain's chairs. The front seats offered extensive adjustments and massage programs, ensuring a luxurious experience for the driver and passengers.

The 2021 Ford Bronco offered two engine options: a standard 2.3-liter turbocharged inline-four with 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, and an optional 2.7-liter twin-turbocharged V6 with 310 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. The 2.3-liter engine came with a seven-speed manual transmission, while the 2.7-liter engine was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. All Bronco models featured standard four-wheel drive. During testing in Holly, Michigan, the Bronco demonstrated its off-road prowess, handling challenging terrain with ease. The 2.7-liter engine provided ample power, and the 10-speed automatic transmission delivered smooth performance. The Bronco's off-road capabilities were further enhanced by the Sasquatch package, which included 35-inch tires and advanced suspension systems.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, producing an impressive 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. This engine, borrowed from the Ford Raptor, provided the Navigator with sprightly performance and a satisfying engine note. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, the Navigator offered both rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive options. The Navigator's towing capacity was substantial, with 8,300 pounds for 4WD models and 8,700 pounds for RWD models. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, averaging in the teens. The Navigator's adaptive dampers provided a comfortable ride, though it lacked the refined suspension of some competitors. Despite its size, the Navigator's low-end thrust and quiet cabin made it a refined highway cruiser.

The 2021 Ford Bronco excelled in modularity and practicality. Its designers incorporated features inspired by the aftermarket and classic Bronco owners. The Bronco's removable doors came with dedicated storage bags and easy-to-use electrical connections. The vehicle also featured standard underbody protection and removable fenders and bumpers for easy repair. Inside, the Bronco offered thoughtful touches like trail sights on the hood and accessible control switches for off-road settings. The interior was designed for durability, with reinforced grab handles and stretchy mesh door pockets. The Bronco's second-row seats were comfortable, even in the two-door model, and the overall design emphasized functionality and ease of use.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator boasted a spacious interior, capable of accommodating six adults comfortably. The third-row seats power-folded and raised, while the second-row captain's chairs could be manually reclined and tilted. The Navigator offered ample cargo space, with 19 cubic feet behind the third row, 57 cubic feet behind the second row, and 103 cubic feet in total. The long-wheelbase Navigator L provided even more storage capacity. The rear glass opened separately from the tailgate, adding convenience. The Navigator's front seats were highly adjustable and luxurious, with features like separate thigh extensions, torso bolsters, and massage programs. The large windows and high driving position ensured excellent visibility, though parking could be challenging due to its size.

The 2021 Ford Bronco featured the latest SYNC 4 infotainment system with enhanced voice recognition. The standard 8-inch touchscreen could be upgraded to a 12-inch version with the High Package. The Lux Package added a 10-speaker B&O sound system, voice-activated navigation, and a wireless charging pad. The Bronco's G.O.A.T. system offered up to seven drive modes for various terrains. The Sasquatch Package included position-sensitive Bilstein shock absorbers for improved off-road performance. The Bronco's technology was user-friendly and well-suited to its adventurous nature.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator's 10-inch touchscreen felt small compared to newer competitors. While it lacked some advanced features like full-screen maps and wireless Apple CarPlay, the Navigator's infotainment system was intuitive and easy to use. The vehicle offered onboard 4G WiFi, wireless device charging, and a smartwatch app. The rear entertainment system included Roku media streaming and various connectivity options. The Navigator's drive modes featured beautiful animations on the instrument panel. Despite some outdated elements, the Navigator's technology provided a satisfactory experience.

The 2021 Ford Bronco offered a range of safety features, with more advanced options available on higher trim levels. The Base model included airbags, while the Mid Package added features like a reverse sensing system, Ford Co-Pilot 360, and a rear-view camera with backup assist lines. The High Package included a 360-degree camera and forward-sensing system. The Bronco's side curtain airbags were designed to deploy appropriately in off-road situations, ensuring occupant safety. However, crash-test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS were not yet available.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator received five stars overall from NHTSA, with high ratings in most tests. It offered optional inflatable rear seat belts for the second row, a rare safety feature. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and auto high beams. Adaptive cruise control was optional, though the Navigator's self-steering capabilities were not as advanced as some competitors. The Navigator provided a high level of safety, though it lacked knee airbags.