2021 Lincoln Navigator vs 2022 INFINITI QX80

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator was a departure from its predecessors, which often resembled dressed-up Ford Expeditions. While it shared some structural elements with the Expedition, such as side glass and overall footprint, the Navigator distinguished itself with unique design features, including a distinct turn signal stalk. Its elegance and understated styling were impressive, especially for a vehicle of its size, riding on 22-inch wheels. The Pristine White model, with its monochromatic package, black wheels, and illuminated Lincoln logo, was particularly striking during winter tests. The interior was equally impressive, offering seven colour palettes and a modern, muted design with high-quality materials and tight panel gaps. The Perfect Position seats, adjustable in 30 different ways, added to the luxurious feel, making the Navigator a formidable competitor in the luxury SUV market.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80, while sharing a platform with the Nissan Armada, had its own distinctive front-end styling, thanks to the familial Infiniti grille. The QX80's design was tasteful, with LED lighting and conservative chrome use, complemented by stylish 22-inch dark chrome alloy wheels. Inside, the QX80 featured upscale materials, including quilted semi-aniline Saddle Brown leather seats and tasteful wood trim. However, the design was beginning to show its age compared to newer competitors. Despite this, the cabin remained a comfortable and attractive space, though it fell short of the high expectations set by the premium full-size SUV market. The QX80's interior, while lovely, did not quite meet the standards of its main competition.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a remarkable twin-turbo V6 engine, borrowed from the Ford Raptor, producing 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD in Canada, provided impressive acceleration and a satisfying sound. The Navigator's towing capacity was substantial at 3,765 kilograms (8,300 pounds). However, its fuel efficiency was less impressive, averaging in the double digits, aligning with the estimated 13.8 litres per 100 kilometres combined rating. While the Navigator's adaptive dampers were standard, the suspension felt rudimentary compared to competitors like the Escalade. Despite some shortcomings in steering and braking precision, the Navigator excelled in highway refinement and power, with paddle shifters adding a touch of sportiness.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 featured a robust 400-horsepower, 5.6-litre V8 engine, delivering 413 lb-ft of torque. This engine provided strong performance and an enjoyable exhaust note, though it was thirsty and required premium fuel. The seven-speed automatic transmission, while lacking a few gears compared to competitors, offered smooth and seamless shifts. The QX80's 4WD system, based on the Nissan Patrol, provided excellent off-road capability, with a computer-controlled transfer case and ample ground clearance. The QX80's towing capacity was impressive at 3,855 kilograms (8,500 pounds). Despite its size, the QX80 managed body lean well, thanks to the Hydraulic Body Motion Control system, though it reminded drivers of its nearly three-ton curb weight during quick maneuvers.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator offered generous interior space, accommodating up to eight passengers with optional seating configurations. The boxy shape contributed to ample cargo space, with 546 litres behind the third row, 1,627 litres behind the second, and 2,925 litres in total. The Navigator Reserve featured heated second-row seats and a three-zone climate system, though it lacked some features offered by German competitors. The front seats were exceptionally comfortable, with numerous adjustments and massage programs. Visibility was excellent, though parking could be challenging due to the vehicle's size.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 required a climb to enter, owing to its tall ride height and body-on-frame construction. Inside, the cabin felt spacious and airy, with good front-seat head- and legroom. The QX80 could accommodate up to eight passengers, though the third row was cramped for adults. Cargo space was less than some competitors, with 470 litres behind the third row, 1,404 litres with the third row folded, and 2,694 litres with all seats down. The power-operated liftgate and third-row seats were slow to operate, but the illuminated kick plates and welcome lighting added a premium touch.

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, with fast voice recognition, but lacked onboard apps and wireless updates. However, the Navigator offered wireless device charging and a rear entertainment system with Roku streaming.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 featured a new 12.3-inch Infiniti InTouch infotainment system with Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. The system included navigation, voice recognition, and connected services. A Bose 17-speaker sound system was standard, along with multiple USB ports and a wireless smartphone charger. The dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system was included, though HDMI adapters were missing. The QX80 lacked Infiniti's ProPilot Assist due to its older architecture, which was a notable omission.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator received five stars overall from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, with four stars for rollover resistance. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety had not rated it. The Navigator offered optional inflatable rear seat belts and standard safety features like automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Adaptive cruise control was optional but lacked advanced self-steering capabilities.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 came with standard safety features, including forward automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-departure warning. Additional features included driver attention alert and front knee airbags. The QX80 received three stars for rollover resistance from the NHTSA, with the structurally similar 2021 model receiving four stars overall. The IIHS had not rated the QX80.