2021 Lincoln Navigator vs 2021 Audi Q5

The 2021 Audi Q5 was a sharp-looking crossover SUV that embodied the Audi design language while maintaining its unique character. Its expressive front featured LED headlights flanking the prominent Audi Singleframe grille, emphasizing width with horizontal elements. The body showcased crisp character lines, and the rear boasted bold, large taillights. The Q5's overall appearance was classy and modern, with exceptional fit and finish. The plug-in hybrid version, with S-Line trim pieces and enhancements, stood out even more, offering standard 19-inch wheels or optional 20-inch wheels. Inside, the Q5 maintained a classy and modern aesthetic, packed with technology yet uncluttered. Buttons and switches were smartly grouped, and the material selection was high-quality, with real wood and metal. The 10.1-inch touchscreen was strategically placed for easy driver access, and the second row featured standard leather upholstery.

In contrast, the 2021 Lincoln Navigator was a testament to elegance and understatement, despite its massive size. Sharing its side glass and overall footprint with the Ford Expedition, the Navigator distinguished itself with unique styling elements. The grille, windows, and headlights were defined by simple rectilinear shapes, complemented by chrome accents. The Pristine White model, with a white-painted grille and black wheels, was particularly striking. The Navigator's interior impressed with seven colour palettes and a focus on finer details, such as layered wood trim and a minimalist digital instrument panel. The Perfect Position seats offered 30 different adjustments, providing unparalleled comfort. While the Navigator's materials and panel gaps were commendable, its overall feel was more about refinement and power than nimbleness.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV enhanced the driving experience with an additional 114 horsepower and 96 pound-feet of torque, thanks to its 14.1-kWh battery. This brought the total combined output to 362 hp and 373 lb-ft of torque, well-suited to its 4,665-lb curb weight. The electric motor worked in tandem with the 2.0-litre turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine, offering impressive acceleration (0 to 100 km/h in 5.3 seconds) and fuel efficiency of 4.7 litres-equivalent per 100 km combined. The Q5 PHEV's battery could be recharged overnight or in 2.4 hours with Level 2 service. Its drivetrain featured a seven-speed S Tronic automatic transmission with full-time Quattro AWD, offering various driving modes for efficiency and performance. Handling was sporty yet comfortable, with minimal body roll and powerful braking.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator, powered by a twin-turbo V6 engine from the Ford Raptor, delivered 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD in Canada, made the Navigator feel surprisingly agile. Its towing capacity was a substantial 3,765 kilograms. However, fuel efficiency was less impressive, averaging in the double digits, aligning with the estimated 13.8 litres per 100 km combined rating. The Navigator's adaptive dampers provided a less refined ride compared to competitors, with occasional bumps causing noticeable shakes. While the steering and brakes lacked the precision of rivals, the Navigator excelled in highway refinement and power, with paddle shifters adding a touch of sportiness.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV offered a balanced size, with smart packaging that accommodated its battery pack without sacrificing cargo space. It provided 710 litres of space behind the second row, expandable to 1,503 litres with the seats folded. The second row offered reasonable legroom (960 mm) and ample headroom (958 mm) and shoulder room (1,435 mm). The front seats were comfortable and supportive, with a range of adjustments and optional ventilation. The interior featured practical storage solutions, maintaining a clean and functional design.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator, with its boxy shape, provided ample space for six adults, with an optional bench for a total of eight passengers. Cargo space was generous, with 546 litres behind the third row, 1,627 behind the second, and 2,925 in total. The long-wheelbase Navigator L offered 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, though it lacked some advanced features found in competitors. The front seats were highly adjustable and comfortable, with excellent visibility from the high driving position. However, parking was challenging due to its size, despite the 360-degree cameras.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV featured Audi’s latest MMI 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, complemented by the Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus 12.3-inch HD instrument cluster. This setup offered a high level of customization and futuristic tech. The Bang & Olufsen 3D audio system with 19 speakers provided excellent sound quality. Wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto were included, enhancing connectivity.

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 the system lacked onboard apps and wireless updates. The Navigator included wireless device charging and a rear entertainment system with Roku media streaming.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV had not been rated by the IIHS, but the 2020 gasoline model received top ratings except for headlights. The NHTSA awarded the 2021 gasoline model five stars. Safety features included six airbags, an anti-lock braking system, electronic stability control, and various driver-assistance features like Audi Pre Sense front and adaptive cruise control.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator received five stars overall from the NHTSA, with four stars for rollover resistance. It lacked knee airbags but offered optional inflatable rear seat belts. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Adaptive cruise control was optional, though it lacked advanced self-steering capabilities.