2020 Lincoln Navigator vs 2021 Acura RDX

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator was a standout in the luxury SUV segment, distinguished by its chrome accents and unique design elements that set it apart from its Ford Expedition roots. The Lincoln Embrace lighting system added a touch of sophistication, welcoming owners with a sequential illumination. The Navigator's design featured a lattice-type grille with an illuminated Lincoln star, fender vents, and full-width taillights, creating a distinct and luxurious appearance. Inside, the Navigator offered a mid-century modern aesthetic with high-quality materials, digital instrumentation, and a panoramic glass roof, enhancing its status as a flagship SUV.

In contrast, the 2021 Acura RDX, especially in the A-Spec trim, presented a sporty yet understated design. It avoided excessive blacked-out trim and off-road styling cues, focusing instead on subtle enhancements that conveyed a sense of sportiness. The RDX A-Spec's exterior was complemented by a well-appointed interior featuring sport seats with simulated suede inserts, a sport steering wheel, and red ambient lighting. The cabin's design prioritized a sporty look and feel, with quality materials and a unique gauge cluster, although the red markings on a brushed silver background were challenging to read during the day.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a robust twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering an impressive 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. This engine outperformed the Ford Expedition's most powerful version by 50 horsepower and 30 lb-ft of torque. The Navigator's 10-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive system provided a smooth and powerful driving experience. With multiple Lincoln Drive Modes, the Navigator adapted to various driving conditions, offering modes like Conserve, Normal, Excite, and more. Its towing capacity reached 3,764 kilograms, aided by the Pro Trailer Backup Assist system. While acceleration was strong, the Navigator's fuel efficiency averaged 14.3 litres per 100 kilometres. Despite its size, the Navigator's adaptive damping suspension and body motion control contributed to a comfortable ride, although it felt large in urban settings.

The 2021 Acura RDX featured a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine producing 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. The RDX's 10-speed automatic transmission and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system enhanced its handling capabilities, making it enjoyable to drive. The Integrated Dynamics System allowed drivers to choose between Snow, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ modes, adjusting powertrain response and steering effort. The RDX A-Spec's 20-inch alloy wheels and performance tires contributed to its sporty handling, although adaptive dampers were not available. The RDX's turbo engine provided a broad torque curve, and its precise steering and brakes added to the driving experience. However, the lack of adaptive dampers and rev-matching in Sport+ mode were noted as areas for improvement.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator offered a spacious and comfortable interior, with power running boards aiding entry. The optional Luxury Package included 30-way Perfect Position front seats, providing exceptional comfort. The Navigator's second-row seats could be configured with a bench or captain's chairs, and the third-row seats offered ample legroom and thigh support. Cargo space was class-leading, with the standard-length model providing 592 litres behind the third row and up to 2,928 litres with seats folded. The longer Navigator L increased these measurements significantly. The Navigator's interior was designed for passenger comfort and cargo versatility.

The 2021 Acura RDX, despite being a compact SUV, offered impressive passenger and cargo space. The front seats were comfortable, with Alcantara and leather upholstery in the A-Spec trim. The rear seats, however, lacked leg support due to a low and flat cushion design. Cargo space measured 835 litres behind the rear seats, with additional storage compartments for organization. Folding the rear seats increased cargo capacity to 1,668 litres, although Acura's maximum measurement of 2,260 litres was based on unconventional loading methods. The RDX's interior design prioritized utility, but rear-seat comfort and storage accessibility were areas for improvement.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator featured the Sync 3 infotainment system, which was criticized for its slow loading times. However, it offered Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. The "Phone As A Key" technology allowed smartphone-based vehicle access. The Revel Ultima audio system provided a compelling audio experience, and additional technologies included a surround-view camera system and a head-up display. While the Sync 3 system had limitations, Lincoln was expected to introduce the improved Sync 4 platform in the future.

The 2021 Acura RDX introduced the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, which used a touch-sensing pad on the centre console. While an improvement over Lexus's approach, the TTI required a learning curve and could be distracting. The RDX included standard satellite radio, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi tethering, with an available navigation system. The A-Spec trim featured a 16-speaker Acura/ELS Studio 3D premium audio system, delivering excellent sound quality. Despite its innovative approach, the TTI system was not ideal, and Acura's infotainment system could benefit from further refinement.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator came equipped with the Lincoln Co-Pilot360 suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The Navigator's adaptive cruise control operated smoothly, and the lane-keeping assistance system was effective. The SUV received a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), although the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) had not tested the 2020 model.

The 2021 Acura RDX included a suite of safety features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. However, blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert were only available on higher trims. The RDX's safety systems were refined and user-friendly, encouraging their use. The SUV earned a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, although it received four-star ratings for frontal-impact and rollover resistance.