2021 Lincoln Navigator vs 2022 INFINITI QX80

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator was a significant departure from its predecessors, which often resembled dressed-up Ford Expeditions. While it shared some structural elements with the Expedition, the Navigator distinguished itself with unique design touches, such as its elegant turn signal stalk and luxurious interior. The exterior design emphasized elegance and understatement, featuring rectilinear shapes, a body-color grille, and tasteful chrome accents. The Pristine White model with black wheels and an illuminated Lincoln logo was particularly striking during winter tests. Inside, the Navigator impressed with its seven color palettes, layered wood trim, and minimalist digital instrument panel. The materials were top-notch, and the Black Label trims offered even more luxurious textures and softer leather.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80, on the other hand, shared its platform and mechanicals with the Nissan Armada, giving it a family resemblance. However, the QX80's front-end styling was unique, featuring a distinctive Infiniti grille and tastefully integrated LED lighting. The use of chrome was conservative, adding to its upscale look. The stylish 22-inch dark chrome alloy wheels further enhanced its exterior appeal. Inside, the QX80's cabin featured unique and upscale materials, such as wood trim and quilted semi-aniline Saddle Brown leather seats. Despite these touches, the interior design felt dated compared to its competitors. While the cabin was comfortable and attractive, it fell short of the high standards set by other premium full-size SUVs.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a twin-turbo V6 engine, producing an impressive 450 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. This engine, borrowed from the Ford Raptor, made the Navigator feel surprisingly sprightly for its size. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, the Navigator offered both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) options. The 4WD system was smooth and responsive, and the Navigator's towing capacity was substantial, with 8,300 pounds for 4WD models and 8,700 pounds for RWD models. However, fuel economy was poor, averaging in the teens, which aligned with the EPA-estimated 17-mpg combined rating. The adaptive dampers provided a decent ride, but the suspension felt rudimentary compared to competitors like the Cadillac Escalade. Despite some shortcomings in steering and braking, the Navigator's overall refinement and power were impressive.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 featured a robust 5.6-liter V8 engine, delivering 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque. This engine provided strong performance and a pleasing exhaust note. The seven-speed automatic transmission offered smooth and seamless shifts, with quick kickdowns for passing and smooth power delivery. The QX80's 4WD system, based on the global Nissan Patrol, offered impressive off-road capability with settings for Automatic, 4Hi, and 4Lo. The QX80's ground clearance of 9.2 inches allowed it to handle challenging terrain with ease. The towing capacity was generous at 8,500 pounds. The QX80 managed body lean well during cornering, thanks to the Hydraulic Body Motion Control system. However, it reminded drivers of its nearly three-ton weight when taking turns too quickly.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator offered ample interior space, with the capacity to house six adults comfortably. The third row's middle seat was best suited for children, and the second-row captain's chairs could be replaced with a bench for a total of eight passengers. 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 provided even more storage space. The rear glass opened separately from the tailgate, a convenient feature for loading and unloading. The Navigator Reserve model included heated second-row seats and a three-zone climate system. The front seats were highly adjustable and comfortable, with numerous settings for customization. Visibility was excellent, but parking was challenging due to the vehicle's size.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 required a climb to enter, thanks to its tall ride height and body-on-frame construction. The cabin provided a spacious and airy feel, with good head- and legroom in the front seats. Forward visibility was commendable, though the sideview mirrors were a bit small. The power-sliding moonroof was smaller than panoramic designs found in other models. The QX80 could accommodate up to eight passengers with the optional second-row bench seat, but the third row was cramped for adults. Cargo space was limited compared to competitors, with 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 49.6 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 95.1 cubic feet with all seats folded. The power-operated liftgate and third-row seats were slow to operate, but the illuminated kick plates and welcome lighting added a premium touch.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator featured a 10-inch touchscreen, which felt small compared to the advanced displays in competitors like the Cadillac Escalade. The instrument panel lacked full-screen maps and different designs, and the cameras were low-resolution. The infotainment system did not support wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. However, the software was intuitive and easy to use, with fast and accurate voice recognition. 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. The rear entertainment system offered Roku media streaming and various connections. While the technology was not cutting-edge, it was functional and user-friendly.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 featured a new 12.3-inch Infiniti InTouch display, offering Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The display also included navigation with lane guidance and voice recognition. A Bose 13-speaker premium sound system was standard, with a 17-speaker Performance Series Bose system available on the top Sensory trim. The QX80 also included multiple USB ports, illuminated steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, and a wireless smartphone charger. The dual-screen rear entertainment system was a nice addition, though the lack of HDMI adapters was a drawback. The QX80 did not include Infiniti's ProPilot Assist advanced driving-assistance system, which was available on less expensive models like the Nissan Rogue Sport.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator received five stars overall from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), with five stars in every test except for rollover resistance (four stars for 4WD models, three stars for RWD models). The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) had not rated the Navigator in its current generation. The Navigator did not offer knee airbags, but optional inflatable rear seat belts for the second row were 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, but the Navigator's self-steering capabilities were not as advanced as some competitors.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 came with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including forward automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring with lane-departure prevention, forward-collision warning, backup collision intervention, a smart rearview mirror, and adaptive cruise control. Additional safety features for 2022 included driver attention alert, front knee airbags, and seat belt pre-tensioners for second-row outboard passengers. The NHTSA had not rated the 2022 QX80, but the structurally similar 2021 model received four stars for overall crash protection. The IIHS had not rated the QX80 for safety.