2021 Lincoln Navigator vs 2022 Kia EV6

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator had a distinct elegance and understated luxury that set it apart from its Ford Expedition roots. Despite sharing some structural elements with the Expedition, the Navigator's unique design and high-end features made it feel like a completely different vehicle. The exterior boasted simple rectilinear shapes, a body-color grille, and tasteful chrome accents, while the interior impressed with seven color palettes, layered wood trim, and a minimalist digital instrument panel. The materials were top-notch, and the Black Label trims offered even more luxurious textures and softer leather.

In contrast, the 2022 Kia EV6 aimed for a sportier and more modern aesthetic. Its design was sleek and svelte, with a low and wide stance that visually set it apart from competitors like the Tesla Model Y. The EV6 featured voluptuous curves, a lip spoiler that doubled as a lightbar, and recessed lights below the rear spoiler. The interior was equally impressive, with dual 12-inch screens, a floating center console, and ambient lighting. The seats were covered in suede and leather, and the overall design prioritized a car-first, computer-second approach, making it enjoyable to drive.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a 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 sprightly for its size. It offered a towing capacity of 8,300 pounds for 4WD models and 8,700 pounds for RWD models. However, its fuel economy was poor, averaging in the teens, and the suspension felt rudimentary compared to competitors like the Cadillac Escalade. Despite these drawbacks, the Navigator's low-end thrust and quiet cabin made it a refined and powerful highway cruiser.

The 2022 Kia EV6, particularly the GT-Line e-AWD model, featured two electric motors producing 320 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque. It could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a claimed 4.6 seconds and handled corners with ease. The top-power GT trim promised even more performance with 576 horsepower and a 0-60 time of less than 3.5 seconds. The EV6 offered multiple regenerative braking settings and a one-pedal driving mode. However, its driving range was disappointing in cold weather, and charging times varied depending on the station. Despite these issues, the EV6's performance and quick torque delivery made it an exciting vehicle to drive.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator offered ample interior space, with the capacity to seat six adults comfortably. It provided 19 cubic feet of cargo space 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 storage. The front seats were highly adjustable and comfortable, while the second-row seats could be removed for maximum storage. However, the Navigator lacked some features found in competitors, such as electrically reclining second-row seats and side window shades.

The 2022 Kia EV6 featured innovative design elements like pop-out door handles and a twisting rotary shifter. The interior offered generous legroom and headroom, with reclining rear seats and optional heated cushions. However, the cargo space was limited, with just 24 cubic feet behind the seats and 50 cubic feet when folded. The EV6 also had a towing capacity of 2,300 pounds and an onboard power generator for running 120-volt equipment. Despite its smaller cargo hold, the EV6's interior was airy and open, providing a comfortable space for passengers.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator's technology felt somewhat outdated compared to newer models. It featured a 10-inch touchscreen, a 20-speaker Revel Ultima stereo, and onboard 4G WiFi. However, it lacked wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the cameras were low-resolution. The software was intuitive and easy to use, but it didn't offer wireless software updates. The rear entertainment system included Roku media streaming and other connections, and the vehicle's remote app functions were included for five years.

The 2022 Kia EV6's infotainment system was simple and quick, with dual 12-inch screens and a 14-speaker Meridian stereo on higher trims. It offered features like blind-spot monitoring, fast-charging, and a remote parking system. The head-up display used augmented reality to show directional arrows and track cars in front. However, Kia Connect features were disabled for Massachusetts residents due to legal issues. Despite this, the EV6's technology was impressive and user-friendly.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator received five stars overall from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, with four stars for rollover resistance on 4WD models and three stars on RWD models. It came standard with 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 Kia EV6 had no published test results from U.S. agencies, but it came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features. These included lane-keeping, cyclist and pedestrian detection, front and rear cross-traffic alert, a driver attention monitor, and rear parking sensors. Higher trims added features like automatic rear braking, 360 cameras, and evasive steering assist. The EV6's safety tech was impressive and provided a high level of protection for occupants.