2021 Lincoln Navigator vs 2021 Lexus GX

The 2021 Lexus GX 460's styling was a testament to its long tenure on the market. Retaining the same basic body shell from a decade ago, it had undergone several updates over the years. The GX adopted Lexus' trademark spindle grille in 2014, which was further updated in 2020 with a new textured insert and triple-beam LED headlights. The 2021 model didn't see any major styling changes, but silver 18-inch wheels became standard on the Premium trim level, with 19-inch wheels also available. Despite not being originally designed around the spindle grille, the GX's styling remained coherent and distinctive, appealing to SUV shoppers with its tough, aggressive look. However, the interior felt dated, with wood trim that resembled molded plastic and an abundance of actual plastic, though it did offer standard leather upholstery.

In contrast, the 2021 Lincoln Navigator exuded elegance and understatement, a challenging feat for a three-ton truck riding on 22-inch wheels. The Navigator shared its side glass and overall footprint with the Ford Expedition but distinguished itself with unique design elements. The grille, windows, headlights, and taillight assembly featured simple rectilinear shapes, with tasteful chrome accents. The Pristine White example with a white-painted grille, black wheels, and illuminated Lincoln logo was particularly striking during winter tests. The interior impressed with seven color palettes and finer details like layered wood trim, a floating center console, and a minimalist digital instrument panel. Materials were high-quality, and panel gaps were tight, with Black Label trims offering even more luxurious textures and softer leather.

The 2021 Lexus GX kept it simple with a single powertrain option: a 4.6-liter V8 engine producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The GX 460's performance was reminiscent of an older generation of SUVs. The V8 engine provided ample power for initial acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of 7.8 seconds. However, the vehicle's 5,130-pound weight became apparent at higher speeds, requiring careful planning for merging and overtaking. Stopping the GX also required more forethought, and its handling was characterized by low grip and significant body roll. The ride quality was typical of a body-on-frame vehicle, lacking the refinement of modern unibody SUVs. Despite these drawbacks, the GX excelled in off-road capability, with a Torsen center differential, standard 4WD system with low range, and various driver aids. The optional Off-Road Package added features like a transmission cooler, fuel-tank protector, and multi-view camera system. The GX had a maximum towing capacity of 6,500 pounds.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator featured a powerful twin-turbo V6 engine from the Ford Raptor, producing 450 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, made the Navigator feel surprisingly agile for its size. The 4WD system was smooth and responsive, and the Navigator boasted a towing capacity of 8,300 pounds for 4WD models and 8,700 pounds for RWD models. Fuel economy was poor, averaging in the teens, consistent with the EPA-estimated 17-mpg combined rating. The Navigator's adaptive dampers provided a decent ride, though not as refined as the Cadillac Escalade's magnetic shocks and air springs. The steering and brakes lacked the precision of the Escalade, but the Navigator's low-end thrust and quiet cabin made it a comfortable highway cruiser. Paddle shifters added a touch of sportiness with quick reaction times and rev-matched downshifts.

The 2021 Lexus GX's interior ergonomics reflected its age, with an upright dashboard and high center console that limited legroom. The steering wheel's odd angle and tall seating position contributed to a bus-like driving feel. The dashboard shape and boxy profile provided excellent outward visibility, though forward visibility was hindered by the tall hood. Storage options were limited, with small center-console storage bins, cupholders, and in-door bottle holders. The GX came standard with three rows of seating for seven, with an optional power-folding third row. However, accessing the third row was challenging, and it was best suited for children. Cargo space was limited, with only 64.7 cubic feet available with the second and third rows folded, significantly less than the Land Rover Discovery's 73.0 cubic feet.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator offered ample space, with a boxy shape that could comfortably accommodate six adults. The third row's middle seat was best suited for children, and the second row featured standard captain's chairs with an optional bench for a total of eight passengers. The Navigator's cargo space was impressive, 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, a convenient feature for loading and unloading. The Navigator Reserve had heated rear second-row seats and a three-zone climate system, though it lacked some features offered by German competitors. The front seats were highly adjustable and comfortable, with numerous settings and massage programs. Visibility was excellent, though parking was challenging due to the vehicle's size.

The 2021 Lexus GX was light on tech features, reflecting its decade-old design. Standard features included Bluetooth, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant connectivity, but Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were not available. The infotainment system was basic, with outdated graphics and limited functionality. However, Lexus included analog controls for most functions, providing a straightforward interface.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator's 10-inch touchscreen felt small compared to newer systems, and its technology lagged behind competitors like the Cadillac Escalade. The instrument panel couldn't display full-screen maps, and the cameras were low-resolution. However, the software was intuitive, with a unique Lincoln interface. The Navigator offered onboard 4G WiFi, wireless device charging, and a smartwatch app, but lacked wireless software updates. The rear entertainment system included Roku media streaming and various connectivity options. Drive mode animations added a touch of flair, and the overall simplicity of the system was a relief compared to more complex setups.

The 2021 Lexus GX 460 had not been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS. It came standard with the Lexus Safety System+ bundle, which included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, automatic high beams, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were also standard, but the GX lacked some advanced safety features found in other Lexus and Toyota models.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator received five stars overall from the NHTSA, with five stars in every test except rollover resistance. The IIHS had not rated the Navigator. Optional inflatable rear seat belts for the second row were a unique 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.