2021 Lincoln Navigator vs 2021 Hyundai Palisade

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy distinguished itself with a unique grille pattern, revised exterior lighting including puddle lamps, additional lower body trim, exclusive 20-inch wheels, upgraded interior detailing, and a simulated suede interior headliner. These features made the Calligraphy trim look fancier than other Palisades, drawing attention with its unconventional styling. Inside, the Calligraphy’s cabin, with its Beige over Navy Blue color scheme, quilted and stitched premium Nappa leather, and suede headliner, appeared far more luxurious than its price suggested, making it a genuine bargain in the midsize three-row SUV class.

In contrast, the 2021 Lincoln Navigator, though sharing its side glass and overall footprint with the Ford Expedition, stood out with its unique design elements. The Navigator Reserve, priced at $92,000, exuded elegance and understatement despite its massive size. The Pristine White example with a white-painted grille, black wheels, and illuminated Lincoln logo was particularly striking. Inside, the Navigator impressed with its seven color palettes, layered wood trim, floating center console, and minimalist digital instrument panel. The materials were top-notch, and the Perfect Position seats offered 30 different adjustments, making the Navigator feel exceptionally refined and luxurious.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade came equipped with a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, with an optional all-wheel-drive system. Drivers could choose between Eco, Comfort, Smart, and Sport driving modes, with AWD models adding a Snow mode and a Lock function for improved traction. The Palisade AWD had an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 21 mpg combined, and our test vehicle averaged 21.1 mpg. The Palisade’s firmer suspension provided excellent body-motion control, making it enjoyable to drive, though not outright fun. It was undemanding in typical driving scenarios, with plenty of power and easy maneuverability, and it offered a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator featured a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 engine from the Ford Raptor, delivering 450 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, the Navigator responded quickly and felt sprightly despite its size. The 4WD system was smooth and efficient, with a towing capacity of 8,300 pounds for 4WD models and 8,700 pounds for RWD models. However, fuel economy was poor, averaging in the teens, matching the EPA-estimated 17 mpg combined. 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’s powerful engine and plush highway ride made it a refined and powerful choice.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade excelled in interior space, seating, and accessibility. The driver and passenger enjoyed eight-way power-adjustable seats, with heated and ventilated front seats and second-row captain’s chairs. The third-row passengers had separate climate controls and rear side-window sunshades. The Palisade offered ample in-cabin storage, with cargo space measuring 18 cubic feet behind the third-row seats, 45.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 86.4 cubic feet with the second row folded. The hands-free Smart Liftgate added convenience, though it could be turned off if desired.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator, with its boxy shape, provided ample space for six adults, with the option to seat eight with a second-row bench. Cargo space was generous, 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 offered even more space. The rear glass opened separately from the tailgate, adding convenience. The Navigator Reserve featured heated second-row seats and a three-zone climate system, though it lacked some advanced features found in competitors. The front seats were highly adjustable and comfortable, with excellent visibility and a high driving position, though parking could be challenging due to its size.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade offered two infotainment systems: an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 10.25-inch touchscreen requiring a wired connection. The Calligraphy trim included SiriusXM satellite radio, a navigation system, Blue Link connected services, and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. Other features included wireless smartphone charging, a Driver Talk intercom system, Quiet Mode, a head-up display, and a surround-view camera system.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator featured a 10-inch touchscreen, which felt small compared to newer systems. The infotainment system was intuitive but lacked wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 20-speaker Revel Ultima stereo was good but not exceptional. The Navigator included onboard 4G WiFi, wireless device charging, a smartwatch app, and the ability to use a smartphone as the vehicle’s ignition key. Rear entertainment options included Roku media streaming and various connections. The system was simple and clear, though it lacked some advanced features found in competitors.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade excelled in safety, with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and multiple lane-keeping systems. It included a rear occupant alert system, active blind-spot and rear cross-traffic warning systems, and a Safe Exit Assist system. The Limited and Calligraphy trims featured a Blind View Monitor and Highway Drive Assist, which provided smooth and sophisticated adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance. The Palisade earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA and included three free years of Blue Link services.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator received five stars overall from the NHTSA, with four stars for rollover resistance in 4WD models and three stars for RWD models. The IIHS had not rated the Navigator. It lacked knee airbags but offered optional inflatable rear seat belts. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and auto high beams. Adaptive cruise control was optional but did not offer advanced self-steering capabilities.