2020 Lincoln Navigator vs 2021 Volvo XC90

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator stood out with its luxurious design, featuring chrome and brightwork that distinguished it from its Ford Expedition roots. Designers crafted unique front and rear styling elements, including the Lincoln Embrace lighting system, which sequentially illuminated the SUV to welcome its owner. The Navigator's lattice-type grille, illuminated star logo, and full-width taillights were signature design hallmarks. Inside, the Navigator offered a mid-century modern aesthetic with high-quality materials, digital instrumentation, and a panoramic glass roof, creating a convincingly luxurious flagship SUV.

In contrast, the 2021 Volvo XC90 successfully reshaped Volvo's image with a design that retained traditional styling features while adding character. The XC90's boxy profile and rectangular grille were complemented by softer lines, more chrome, and distinctive LED headlights with "Thor's Hammer" daytime running lights. The Inscription trim level added extra chrome and optional 21-inch alloy wheels, while the interior embraced Swedish minimalism with thoughtfully arranged materials. The XC90's matte-finish wood trim and wool upholstery option added a touch of elegance, making it a standout in the luxury SUV segment.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a robust twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque, surpassing the Ford Expedition's most powerful version. A 10-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive were standard, with multiple drive modes to tailor the powertrain to various driving conditions. The Navigator boasted a maximum towing capacity of 3,764 kilograms, aided by Pro Trailer Backup Assist for easier trailer maneuvering. While acceleration was strong, the engine's sound lacked the V8 rumble some might desire. Fuel efficiency averaged 14.3 litres per 100 kilometres, and the SUV's adaptive damping suspension provided excellent body motion control, though impact harshness was noticeable on imperfect roads.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains, all based on a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base T5 produced 250 horsepower, while the T6 added supercharging for 316 hp. The T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid combined the T6 engine with electric assist, delivering 400 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque. Despite the power, the small engine struggled with flexibility compared to competitors' six-cylinder or V8 engines. The XC90's drive modes included Pure, Hybrid, and Power, but Pure mode was limited to low speeds. The XC90 excelled in ride quality, with an optional air-suspension system providing a smooth experience, though its towing capacity was lower than the Navigator's.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator required a climb to enter, but once inside, it offered ample space for passengers to stretch out. The optional Luxury Package included 30-way Perfect Position front seats, power-adjustable pedals, and a heated steering wheel. The second row could be configured with a bench or captain's chairs, and the third row provided exceptional legroom and thigh support. Cargo volumes were class-leading, with the standard model offering up to 2,928 litres and the longer Navigator L providing up to 3,407 litres.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 was available in six-seat or seven-seat configurations, with average headroom and legroom for the segment. The third row was tight for adults, and seats lacked support. An optional power sunroof and standard four-zone climate control enhanced the interior's spacious feel. The Inscription trim featured 10-way power-adjustable front seats with massage, but storage space was limited. Cargo capacity was near the bottom of the segment, with the T8 Recharge model offering up to 1,815 litres with seats folded.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator's Sync 3 infotainment system was its least impressive feature, with slow loading times. However, it offered Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. "Phone As A Key" technology allowed smartphone-based vehicle access. The 20-speaker Revel Ultima audio system provided a compelling audio experience, and additional technologies included a surround-view camera system and a head-up display.

The 2021 Volvo XC90's Sensus infotainment system emphasized simplicity, with a 9-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. The portrait-oriented touchscreen was user-friendly, though text readability was challenging while driving. The XC90 included a wireless charging pad, but it was too small for most phones. A 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system and head-up display were available.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator featured the Lincoln Co-Pilot360 suite of advanced driver assistance systems, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The Navigator received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, though the IIHS had not tested the 2020 model.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 earned the highest "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS for non-hybrid models, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention. The NHTSA awarded all XC90 models a five-star overall safety rating. The XC90 offered a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.