2020 Lexus RX vs 2021 Lincoln Navigator

The 2020 Lexus RX underwent a significant refresh, enhancing both its interior and exterior to maintain its stylish edge in a competitive market. The exterior updates included standard 18-inch wheels, slimmer headlights, and L-shaped taillights, with optional triple-beam LED headlamps. The grille was redesigned to align with the Lexus car lineup, and a new paint option, Moonbeam Beige Metallic, was introduced. The rear received a fresh look with dual exhausts, a rear diffuser, and updated reflectors, along with an available hands-free tailgate. Inside, the RX continued to offer a well-appointed cabin with standard heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, and a heated steering wheel. The interior featured leather seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and optional wood and satin-brushed aluminum trim. The F Sport packages added unique styling elements and 20-inch wheels. Despite its premium feel, the centre stack's design was considered dated as the industry moved towards more modern aesthetics.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator distinguished itself from its Ford Expedition roots with a unique design and luxurious features. Its styling emphasized elegance and understatement, with rectilinear shapes defining the grille, windows, and lighting elements. The Monochromatic Package added body-colour elements, while chrome accents maintained a classy appearance. The Navigator's interior impressed with seven colour palettes and high-quality materials. The Perfect Position seats offered 30-way adjustability, providing exceptional comfort. The cabin's design was modern and muted, with a floating centre console and a minimalist digital instrument panel. Despite its size, the Navigator's interior felt refined, with tight panel gaps and premium materials. While the Navigator's ride wasn't as supple as some competitors, its overall refinement and power made it a compelling choice for those seeking luxury and performance in a large SUV.

The 2020 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 295 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. The RX 350 L variant offered slightly reduced power at 290 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid RX 450h combined the V6 with an electric motor, achieving 308 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque, with a CVT completing the powertrain. The RX 450h L shared the same setup, with an electric motor contributing 165 horsepower. The RX's performance was smooth, with a 0-60 mph time of 7.9 seconds for most models. Fuel efficiency was a highlight, with the RX 350 achieving 10.8 L/100 km combined, while the RX 450h excelled at 7.9 L/100 km combined. The RX offered various drive modes, including Sport S+ for F Sport models, enhancing agility with adaptive variable suspension and 20-inch wheels.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator featured a powerful twin-turbo 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD in Canada. The Navigator's performance was impressive, with quick acceleration and a responsive drivetrain. Its towing capacity was substantial at 3,765 kg. However, fuel efficiency was less favourable, averaging 13.8 L/100 km combined. The Navigator's adaptive dampers provided a comfortable ride, though not as refined as some competitors. The steering and brakes lacked the precision found in rivals like the Cadillac Escalade. Despite these shortcomings, the Navigator's power and refinement on the highway were commendable, with paddle shifters adding a touch of sportiness.

The 2020 Lexus RX offered a comfortable interior, accommodating four adults in its two-row configuration. The three-row RX-L was best suited for small children in the third row due to limited space. The cabin was spacious, with comfortable front seats and good visibility, though the A-pillar could obstruct views. Cargo space was limited compared to rivals, with a high load floor reducing capacity. The RX 350 L and 450h L had even less cargo space, with about 560 litres less than the Lincoln Aviator. A hands-free liftgate was available on most models, enhancing convenience.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator boasted a spacious interior, accommodating six adults comfortably. The third row's middle seat was best for children, with power-folding and raising capabilities. The Navigator's boxy shape maximized cargo space, offering 546 litres behind the third row, 1,627 litres behind the second, and 2,925 litres in total. The long-wheelbase Navigator L provided even more storage. The rear glass opened separately from the tailgate, adding convenience. The Navigator Reserve featured heated second-row seats and a three-zone climate system. While the second-row seats could be removed for maximum storage, they lacked electric reclining and other luxury features found in competitors. The front seats were exceptionally comfortable, with extensive adjustability and massage functions. Visibility was excellent, though parking could be challenging due to the vehicle's size.

The 2020 Lexus RX's infotainment system was often criticized, but improvements were made for 2020. The standard 8.0-inch display and optional 12.3-inch touchscreen were moved closer to the driver. Despite this, the system remained challenging to navigate. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, providing a workaround for the system's shortcomings. The RX also offered Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and other connectivity options. The centre console touchpad was more responsive, and the RX featured six USB ports. The standard 12-speaker audio system was adequate, with a 15-speaker Mark Levinson system available.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator's 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system felt outdated compared to newer competitors. While it offered Bluetooth and SiriusXM, it lacked wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 20-speaker Revel Ultima audio system was good but not exceptional. The software was intuitive, sharing its interface with Ford but with a unique Lincoln skin. Voice recognition was fast and accurate, though there were no onboard apps or wireless updates. The Navigator featured wireless device charging and smartphone ignition key functionality. The rear entertainment system included Roku streaming and various connectivity options. Drive mode animations added a touch of flair to the instrument panel.

The 2020 Lexus RX came equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, featuring adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, blind-spot monitoring, and a backup camera. The 2020 enhancements included daytime bicyclist detection, low-light pedestrian detection, road-sign assist, and lane-tracing assist. The RX received good safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, though not as high as newer models. Lexus Enform Safety Connect and Service Connect subscriptions were included, though connectivity issues were noted during testing.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with four stars for rollover resistance in 4WD models. The IIHS had not rated the Navigator in its current generation. Optional inflatable rear seat belts were available for the second row. 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.