2021 Lincoln Navigator vs 2022 Genesis GV70

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator was a testament to elegance and understatement, a challenging feat for a three-ton vehicle. While it shared some design elements with the Ford Expedition, the Navigator distinguished itself with unique features, such as its rectilinear shapes and subtle chrome accents. The Pristine White model, with its monochromatic package, black wheels, and illuminated Lincoln logo, exuded sophistication. Inside, the Navigator impressed with its seven color palettes and modern design elements, like the layered wood trim and floating center console. The materials were of high quality, and the Black Label trims elevated the luxury with additional textures and softer leather. The Perfect Position seats, adjustable in 30 different ways, provided unparalleled comfort, making the Navigator's interior one of the most refined in its class.

The 2022 Genesis GV70, while inheriting some styling cues from other Genesis models, carved out its own identity with a unique appearance. Its quad LED strips and shield-shaped grille were complemented by a sloping roofline and ribbed detailing, giving it a rugged yet sleek profile. The Sport Prestige model added character with its distinctive front fascia, 21-inch wheels, and dark chrome trim. Inside, the GV70 featured an elliptical theme inspired by an airplane wing, with a minimalist design that included a perched touchscreen and hidden air vents. The interior offered a variety of color options, and the Sport Prestige model boasted Nappa leather upholstery with suede inserts. However, the base models came with leatherette seats, which might not appeal to those seeking a more luxurious feel.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a formidable twin-turbo V6 engine, producing 450 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, provided a surprisingly sprightly performance for a vehicle of its size. The Navigator's 4WD system was smooth and efficient, offering a towing capacity of up to 8,700 pounds with the RWD model. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, averaging in the teens, which aligned with its EPA-estimated 17-mpg combined rating. While the Navigator's adaptive dampers were standard, its suspension felt rudimentary compared to competitors like the Cadillac Escalade. Despite some shortcomings in steering and braking precision, the Navigator's overall refinement and power made it a compelling choice for highway driving.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 offered two engine options: a base 2.5-liter turbo-four with 300 horsepower and a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 with 375 horsepower. Both engines came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The GV70's inclusion of a rear electronic limited-slip differential and launch control hinted at its sporty aspirations. The Sport+ drive mode further emphasized this, sharpening throttle response and holding high revs. However, the GV70's chassis lacked the sharpness of some competitors, and its steering was not precise enough for spirited driving. While the GV70 excelled in highway cruising, its firm ride and lack of solidity detracted from its luxury appeal.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator offered ample interior space, akin to a small bedroom, with seating for up to eight passengers. Its boxy shape contributed to generous cargo space, with 19 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 103 cubic feet in total. The Navigator Reserve model featured heated second-row seats and a three-zone climate system, though it lacked some of the advanced features found in German competitors. The front seats were exceptionally comfortable, with numerous adjustments and massage programs. However, parking the Navigator was challenging due to its size, despite the assistance of 360-degree cameras.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 provided mid-pack interior space for its segment, with adequate legroom and good rear-seat visibility. Its cargo space, at 28.9 cubic feet with the rear seats in place, was substantial but not class-leading. The daring interior design compromised storage space, with limited room for small items. The Sport Prestige model's heavily bolstered front seats were great for spirited driving but might feel confining for some. The front seats also featured heating, ventilation, and massage functions, though some controls were less intuitive.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator's technology felt somewhat dated, with a 10-inch touchscreen that paled in comparison to newer systems. While the software was intuitive, it lacked features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 20-speaker Revel Ultima stereo was good but not exceptional. However, the Navigator offered useful features like onboard 4G WiFi, wireless device charging, and a smartwatch app. The rear entertainment system included Roku media streaming and various connectivity options.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 boasted a 14.5-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Its tile-based layout and crisp graphics made it user-friendly. The GV70 also offered a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with a 3D effect and a 12-inch head-up display. The digital-key feature and fingerprint scanner added convenience, while the advanced rear-seat monitors and remote camera activation enhanced safety. Genesis Connected Services, included for three years, bundled various features like driver profiles and valet mode.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator received five stars overall from the NHTSA, with four stars for rollover resistance in 4WD models. 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. However, its adaptive cruise control was less advanced than some competitors.

The 2022 Genesis GV70, as a new model, had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA. It came standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning, and Highway Driving Assist. Optional features included Highway Driving Assist 2 with lane-change functionality. The GV70's safety systems impressed with smooth control inputs, though lane-centering was limited on curvy roads.