2021 INFINITI QX80 vs 2021 Lincoln Navigator

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 showcased a blend of Nissan Armada and Infiniti design elements, with its body-on-frame construction reminiscent of traditional SUVs. Its front-end styling, introduced in 2018, featured a distinctive Infiniti grille and headlight design, giving it a bold yet refined appearance. The QX80 came standard with LED lighting and offered 20-inch wheels on the base model, with larger 22-inch wheels available on higher trims. Inside, the QX80's interior closely mirrored the Armada, with added luxury touches like wood trim and leather upholstery. However, some elements, such as the foot-operated parking brake, felt less premium, potentially leaving buyers seeking exclusivity somewhat underwhelmed.

In contrast, the 2021 Lincoln Navigator stood out with its unique design, distinct from its Ford Expedition roots. Its elegant and understated theme was evident in its rectilinear shapes and subtle chrome accents. The Navigator's interior impressed with its seven color palettes and attention to detail, such as the layered wood trim and floating center console. The Black Label trims elevated luxury with additional textures and softer leather. The Navigator's Perfect Position seats offered 30-way adjustability, providing exceptional comfort. Overall, the Navigator exuded a sense of refinement and luxury that appealed to those seeking a high-end experience.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 was powered by a 5.6-liter V8 engine producing 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque, paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission. While its power output was slightly lower than some competitors, it provided ample performance for highway driving. The QX80's body-on-frame construction contributed to a truck-like ride, but its independent suspension and Hydraulic Body Motion Control on Sensory models ensured a comfortable experience. Despite its size, the QX80 offered a smooth ride, though it felt less composed in corners. Its towing capacity reached 8,500 pounds, making it a capable choice for hauling.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator featured a twin-turbo V6 engine from the Ford Raptor, delivering 450 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, provided impressive acceleration and responsiveness. The Navigator's 4WD system offered smooth transitions between drive modes, enhancing its versatility. While its fuel economy was not exceptional, the Navigator excelled in highway refinement. Its adaptive dampers contributed to a comfortable ride, though it lacked the superior control of some competitors. With a towing capacity of up to 8,700 pounds, the Navigator was well-suited for heavy-duty tasks.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 offered a three-row configuration with seating for seven or eight passengers, depending on the chosen setup. Standard features included power-adjustable front seats with heating and cooling options on higher trims. While passenger space was competitive, it fell short of class leaders like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. Cargo space was also limited, with 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row and 95.1 cubic feet with all seats folded. The QX80's interior featured a center console accessible from both front and rear, though storage space was modest.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator boasted a spacious interior, accommodating up to eight passengers with its optional bench seat. Its boxy design maximized cargo space, offering 19 cubic feet behind the third row and 103 cubic feet in total. The long-wheelbase Navigator L provided even more storage capacity. The Navigator's second-row seats were manually adjustable, and the front seats offered extensive customization options, including massage functions. Visibility was excellent, though parking could be challenging due to its size. Overall, the Navigator's interior was luxurious and well-suited for long journeys.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 featured the Infiniti InTouch dual-screen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. While it offered a range of features, including a 13-speaker Bose audio system and optional rear-seat entertainment, the user interface was not intuitive. The Smart Rearview Mirror and Around View Monitor enhanced visibility, but the overall tech experience felt dated.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator's technology included a 10-inch touchscreen with an intuitive interface, though it lacked some advanced features found in competitors. The 20-speaker Revel Ultima stereo provided good sound quality, and the Navigator offered onboard 4G WiFi and wireless device charging. While the tech was user-friendly, it didn't match the cutting-edge offerings of some rivals.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with standard features like adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. While it lacked IIHS testing, it offered a comprehensive suite of safety technologies.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with standard features including automatic emergency braking and lane-keep assist. Optional inflatable rear seat belts added an extra layer of safety, though knee airbags were not available.