2021 Lincoln Navigator vs 2021 Mazda CX-30

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo was a striking vehicle, especially for those who appreciated a bold black aesthetic. It featured exclusive shiny black 18-inch wheels, a shiny black grille, and side mirror housings, all complemented by thick matte black body cladding. This design choice gave the CX-30 Turbo a unique appearance, as if it was floating over its wheels, creating a distinct visual separation from the Mazda3 hatchback on which it was based. The elevated stance of the CX-30 was immediately noticeable, offering a higher ground clearance that was both perceptual and real.

Inside, the CX-30 provided an upscale vibe with quality materials, complementary tones, and stitched chocolate brown surfaces. The cabin closely resembled that of the Mazda3, which was not a drawback. It featured a chrome accent around the engine start button and a standard frameless rearview mirror. The GT trim, where the turbocharged engine became available, came with standard black or white leather. Pricing for the 2021 CX-30 ranged from an MSRP of $24,700 to $36,400, with our test vehicle priced at $38,827 including fees.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator, on the other hand, was a testament to elegance and understatement, despite its massive size. It shared its side glass and overall footprint with the Ford Expedition but distinguished itself with unique styling elements. The Navigator's design was defined by simple rectilinear shapes, a body-colour grille, and full-width taillight assembly, with tasteful chrome accents. Our Pristine White test model, with its white-painted grille and black wheels, was a standout during winter testing. The Navigator also featured a small light show when locking or unlocking, adding a touch of flair.

Inside, the Navigator impressed with its seven colour palettes and attention to finer details. The Slate Gray interior of our test vehicle showcased layered wood trim, a floating centre console, and a minimalist digital instrument panel. The materials were of high quality, and the Perfect Position seats offered 30 different adjustments, providing exceptional comfort. While the Navigator's ride wasn't as supple as some competitors, its low-end thrust and quiet cabin made it a refined choice for highway driving.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo was equipped with a turbocharged Skyactiv 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing between 227 and 250 horsepower depending on the fuel's octane rating. Torque ranged from 310 lb-ft at 2,000 rpm to 320 lb-ft at 2,500 rpm, ensuring effortless acceleration. The CX-30 Turbo featured a six-speed automatic transmission, standard i-Activ all-wheel-drive, and G-Vectoring Control Plus technology. Fuel efficiency was rated at 9.3 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, with a maximum range of approximately 500 kilometres.

Mazda's engineers focused on delivering a satisfying driving experience rather than the fastest acceleration times. The CX-30 Turbo offered a refined and sophisticated ride, with hints of torque steer managed by the revised GVC-Plus technology. The i-Activ AWD system actively distributed power to the rear wheels, enhancing traction and response. While the CX-30 Turbo didn't handle as well as the Mazda3 due to its added height and weight, it excelled in off-road conditions with its extra ground clearance and Off-Road mode.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a twin-turbo V6 engine, producing 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive, the Navigator offered impressive acceleration and a satisfying engine note. Its towing capacity was a substantial 3,765 kilograms. However, fuel efficiency was less impressive, with an average consumption in the double digits.

The Navigator's adaptive dampers provided a comfortable ride, though not as refined as some competitors. The steering and brakes lacked the precision of the Cadillac Escalade, but the Navigator's overall refinement and power made it a compelling choice for highway cruising. Paddle shifters added a touch of sportiness, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo offered exceptional comfort for the driver, with eight-way manual adjustment and a driver-focused interior layout. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were standard on higher trims, though ventilated seats were not available. The cabin's organic shapes and minimalism contributed to a sense of spaciousness, despite the CX-30's small SUV size. Rear-seat accommodations were cramped, but rear-seat air conditioning vents provided some comfort.

Cargo space was generous, with 572 litres behind the rear seats and 1,280 litres with the seats folded. However, the location of the optional wireless smartphone charger in the centre console storage bin limited its usability.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator offered ample interior space, accommodating up to eight passengers with its optional bench seat. The boxy design provided generous cargo space, with 546 litres behind the third row, 1,627 litres behind the second, and 2,925 litres in total. The long-wheelbase Navigator L offered even more storage capacity. The rear glass opened separately from the tailgate, adding convenience.

The Navigator's front seats were exceptionally comfortable, with numerous adjustments and massage programs. Visibility was excellent, though parking could be challenging due to its size. The second-row seats were heated, and a three-zone climate system was standard. However, the Navigator lacked some features offered by competitors, such as side window shades and electrically reclining second-row seats.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo featured an 8.8-inch infotainment display, operated via physical controls and voice commands. While the system required acclimation, it offered standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The GT trim added SiriusXM satellite radio, a navigation system, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. An Active Driving Display projected useful data onto the windshield, enhancing safety.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator's 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system felt dated 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. The Navigator included wireless device charging and a rear entertainment system with Roku media streaming.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover resistance rating. It came equipped with a full suite of safety features and advanced driving assistance systems. The GT trim added an adaptive front lighting system, front and rear parking sensors, and rear automatic emergency braking.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator received five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover resistance rating. The IIHS had not rated the Navigator. It 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.