2021 BMW X7 vs 2020 Lincoln Corsair

The 2020 Lincoln Corsair was a testament to luxury, distinct from its Ford roots. Despite sharing some components with the Ford Escape, the Corsair stood out with its unique body panels and trim, exuding refinement and elegance. Its design featured a low hood line, a restrained chrome grille, and teardrop headlights, reminiscent of a Jaguar. The vehicle's tall roof gently sloped, ending in a Land Rover-like edge, while the clamshell tailgate and thin taillights added a touch of sophistication. Inside, the Corsair's dashboard was a close contender to the Mercedes-Benz GLC, with rich materials and details like curved matte-finish wood and chrome trim. However, the lower dash's hard plastic and the matte black center console were minor drawbacks.

In contrast, the 2021 BMW X7 was a symbol of prestige and sophistication, surpassing competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator in interior quality and technological sophistication. The X7's styling was appealing, with traditional BMW cues and a massive grille that suited its large SUV stature. Inside, the X7 shared similarities with the X5, offering high-tech design and high-quality materials. The vehicle's interior was luxurious, with premium extended leather, a leather-wrapped dashboard, and an Alcantara suede headliner. Despite its nearly 5,400-pound curb weight, the X7 demonstrated effortless speed and fluidity, making it a top choice for those seeking a blend of luxury and performance.

The 2020 Lincoln Corsair offered two turbocharged 4-cylinder engines paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The 2.0T trim featured a 2.0-liter engine with 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, with front-wheel drive standard and all-wheel drive optional. The 2.3T trim, with a 295-hp, 310 lb-ft, 2.3-liter engine, came with all-wheel drive only. While the transmission occasionally hiccupped in lower gears, it generally provided a smooth experience. The Corsair's steering lacked road feel, but its body control was impressive, offering a comfortable and composed ride. Fuel economy for the 2.3T was EPA-estimated at 21 mpg city, 28 highway, and 24 combined, with a plug-in hybrid trim on the horizon.

The 2021 BMW X7 xDrive40i featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with 335 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed sport automatic transmission and BMW’s xDrive AWD system. The eBoost mild-hybrid technology added a 48-volt starter/generator and battery, enhancing fuel efficiency and responsiveness. Despite this, the X7's fuel economy dropped to 19 mpg city, 24 highway, and 21 combined. The X7 accelerated to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, offering ample power. However, its self-leveling air suspension struggled with body motions, affecting driving enjoyment. The Dynamic Handling Package improved maneuverability and stability, while the M Sport brakes provided reliable stopping power.

The 2020 Lincoln Corsair offered a comfortable and airy driving position, with seat controls conveniently located on the doors. The Perfect Position seats provided 24 ways of adjustment, including massage settings. Rear passengers enjoyed sliding and reclining seats, with optional heated seats and a panoramic moonroof enhancing comfort. Cargo space was limited, with 28 cubic feet behind the seats and 58 when folded. The Sync 3 infotainment system was user-friendly, though the engine auto stop-start control was less intuitive. The center console was spacious, with a wireless phone charger in the center armrest.

The 2021 BMW X7's interior was decadent, featuring heated and ventilated front seats, a five-zone climate control system, and premium Merino leather upholstery. The second-row captain's chairs were exceptionally comfortable, though the long rear doors could pose entry challenges. The third-row seat accommodated adults comfortably, with power seat adjustments facilitating access. Cargo space was modest, with 48.6 cubic feet behind the second row and 90.4 cubic feet with both rear rows folded, falling short of class leaders.

The 2020 Lincoln Corsair offered a smartphone-as-key feature via the Lincoln Way app, though it was deactivated in the test vehicle. The hidden touchpad on the B-pillars was a convenient alternative for unlocking the car. The head-up display was wide and informative, though the instrument panel lacked customization options. Voice recognition and destination searches were fast and accurate, but software updates required an external WiFi connection.

The 2021 BMW X7 featured Live Cockpit Professional digital instrumentation and an iDrive 7.0 infotainment system with navigation, both using 12.3-inch displays. The system included Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM 360L, and Connected Package Pro. Wireless smartphone charging, natural voice recognition, and gesture control were also available, though the latter was inconsistent. The head-up display was difficult to see with polarized sunglasses.

The 2020 Lincoln Corsair was rated a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and forward emergency braking. It lacked the "+" designation due to headlight performance. Standard safety features included Co-Pilot360 with adaptive cruise control, traffic-sign recognition, and lane-departure warning. Co-Pilot360 Plus added lane-keep assist and evasive steering assist. Rear side airbags and knee airbags were standard.

The 2021 BMW X7 came with standard safety technologies, with additional features available in the Driving Assistance Professional Package and Parking Assistance Package. The former included evasive-steering assist, traffic-jam assist, and lane-control assist, while the latter offered semi-automated parking assist and a surround-view camera. The X7's ADAS was generally impressive, though it occasionally struggled with lane maintenance and automated lane changes.