2021 Lincoln Navigator vs 2021 Mazda CX-5

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 was a smooth and stylish vehicle that stood out with its sleek design, even when stationary. Unlike many competitors, Mazda opted for a more refined look, avoiding deeply-creased hoods and chiseled grilles. The base CX-5 Sport featured automatic LED headlights, 17-inch wheels, and a rear roof spoiler, while higher trims like the Touring and Grand Touring added features such as leatherette seats, dual-zone climate control, and 19-inch wheels. The top-tier Signature model boasted premium materials like Caturra Brown Nappa leather and genuine wood trim, making it feel more luxurious.

In contrast, the 2021 Lincoln Navigator exuded elegance and understatement despite its massive size. The Navigator's design included simple rectilinear shapes, a body-color grille, and full-width taillights. The Pristine White model with black wheels and an illuminated Lincoln logo was particularly striking. Inside, the Navigator impressed with its seven color palettes, layered wood trim, and a floating center console. The materials were high-quality, and the Perfect Position seats offered 30 different adjustments, making the interior feel both modern and luxurious.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options. The base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produced 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available. The turbocharged 2.5-liter engine, available on higher trims, delivered 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque. Fuel economy for the non-turbo engine was 25 mpg city, 31 mpg highway, and 28 mpg combined for FWD models. The turbo engine achieved 22 mpg city, 27 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined with AWD. The CX-5's sporty drive style was engaging, but its stiff suspension could be a drawback.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator featured a powerful twin-turbo V6 engine, producing 450 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, the Navigator offered both rear-wheel and four-wheel drive options. Towing capacity was impressive, at 8,300 pounds for 4WD models and 8,700 pounds for RWD models. Fuel economy was less favorable, averaging in the teens, with an EPA-estimated 17 mpg combined. The Navigator's adaptive dampers provided a decent ride, but it lacked the superior control and handling of some competitors. However, its low-end thrust and quiet cabin made it a refined and powerful choice for highway driving.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5's design allowed it to meet most family needs comfortably. The seating position and comfort level were typical for its size, but rear legroom was limited. The CX-5 had two full LATCH connections in the rear seats and straightforward climate controls. However, its cargo space was below average, with 30.9 cubic feet behind the second row and 59.6 cubic feet with the seats folded. The larger shifter and infotainment controls were not ideally positioned for shorter drivers.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator offered ample space, with seating for up to eight passengers. The boxy design provided 19 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 57 cubic feet behind the second, and 103 cubic feet in total. The long-wheelbase Navigator L increased these numbers to 34, 73, and 120 cubic feet, respectively. The rear glass opened separately from the tailgate, and the second-row seats were heated with a three-zone climate system. The front seats were highly adjustable and comfortable, making visibility excellent. However, parking was challenging due to its size.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 came standard with a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen. While the screen size was impressive, the operating system was less so, with a cluttered interface and difficult-to-use controls. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, but the overall infotainment experience was not as user-friendly as it could be.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator featured a 10-inch touchscreen, which felt small compared to newer competitors. The infotainment system was intuitive and shared its interface with Ford, but it lacked wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 20-speaker Revel Ultima stereo was good but not exceptional. The Navigator included onboard 4G WiFi, wireless device charging, and a smartwatch app, but it lacked some of the advanced features found in competitors.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 came with a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision warning. Optional features included a head-up display and a surround-view camera system. The CX-5 earned high safety ratings, including a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator also had a strong safety profile, with five-star ratings from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Adaptive cruise control was optional, but the Navigator did not offer knee airbags. Inflatable rear seat belts were available for the second row, a rare feature aimed at reducing chest injuries.