2021 Lincoln Navigator vs 2021 Volkswagen ID.4

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 was a distinctive entry in the electric vehicle market, designed to stand out from its gasoline counterparts. Unlike the traditional styling of the Volkswagen Tiguan and Atlas, the ID.4 featured a streamlined profile with wheels pushed to the corners, giving it a unique appearance. Built on Volkswagen's MEB platform, the ID.4 was introduced to the North American market as a crossover, a strategic decision given the popularity of this vehicle type. However, its SUV-like styling was subtle, making it less distinguishable as an SUV compared to other electric crossovers. Inside, the ID.4 combined Volkswagen's minimalist design with a tech-focused aesthetic, featuring piano black and matte plastic finishes. The interior offered standard features like a leather-wrapped steering wheel and cloth seats, with leatherette upholstery available in higher trims.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator, on the other hand, was a testament to luxury and elegance, setting itself apart from its Ford Expedition roots. Its design was characterized by simple rectilinear shapes and tasteful chrome accents, creating a sophisticated look despite its massive size. The Navigator's interior was equally impressive, offering seven colour palettes and high-quality materials. The cabin featured a 10-inch touchscreen, a floating centre console, and a minimalist digital instrument panel. The Perfect Position seats were a highlight, offering 30 different adjustments for ultimate comfort. While the Navigator's styling and interior were luxurious, it also provided practicality with features like a power-folding third row and a spacious cargo area.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 offered two powertrain configurations. The base rear-wheel-drive (RWD) version featured a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque, powered by an 82-kilowatt-hour battery pack. This setup marked the first RWD Volkswagen passenger car in North America since the Beetle. An all-wheel-drive (AWD) version was also available, adding a second electric motor for a total output of 295 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. While the ID.4 wasn't a performance car, its RWD configuration provided balanced handling, and the electric motor delivered ample power with instantaneous torque. However, the ID.4 prioritized comfort over sportiness, with a smooth ride but noticeable body roll in corners. Unlike many EVs, the ID.4 relied on friction brakes rather than aggressive regenerative braking, offering a more traditional driving experience.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a formidable twin-turbo V6 engine, producing 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive (4WD) in Canada, provided impressive acceleration and a satisfying engine note. The Navigator's 4WD system was smooth and responsive, offering a towing capacity of 3,765 kilograms (8,300 pounds). However, its fuel efficiency was less impressive, with an average consumption in the double digits, aligning with the estimated 13.8 litres per 100 kilometres combined rating. While the Navigator's adaptive dampers were standard, its suspension felt less refined compared to competitors like the Cadillac Escalade. Despite this, the Navigator excelled in highway refinement, with a quiet cabin and powerful performance.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 offered a spacious interior, with more front and rear headroom than many competitor EVs, although legroom was average for the segment. It provided 858 litres of cargo space with the rear seats in place and 1,818 litres with them folded, surpassing several electric rivals but falling short of gasoline crossovers like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. The ID.4 lacked a front trunk, opting instead for more cabin space, which felt roomy from the driver's seat. However, rearward visibility was compromised by thick rear pillars and a small back window. The ID.4 featured a unique twist-grip gear selector on the dashboard, freeing up space on the centre console, although storage options were limited. Standard heated steering wheel and front seats helped maintain cabin warmth efficiently.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator boasted a cavernous interior, capable of accommodating six adults comfortably. It offered 546 litres of cargo space behind the third row, 1,627 litres behind the second, and 2,925 litres in total. The long-wheelbase Navigator L provided even more storage capacity. The Navigator's rear glass opened separately from the tailgate, adding convenience. The interior featured heated second-row seats and a three-zone climate system, with an optional console for the second row. The front seats were highly adjustable, offering a range of comfort features, including massage programs. Visibility was excellent thanks to large windows and a high driving position, although parking was challenging due to the vehicle's size.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 came equipped with a standard 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with an optional 12-inch screen, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 5.3-inch display screen served as the instrument cluster, and haptic touchpads replaced traditional switchgear. While the setup looked modern, it was challenging to use due to the lack of tactile feedback. The ID.4 also featured a natural-language voice-control system and the innovative ID.Light, a light strip that communicated information to the driver. Despite some gimmicky features, the infotainment system was well-designed, with smart graphics and easy-to-navigate menus.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator's technology felt somewhat dated compared to newer competitors. Its 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system lacked wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the cameras were low-resolution. However, the software was intuitive, sharing its interface with Ford but with a unique Lincoln skin. The Navigator offered wireless device charging and the ability to use a smartphone as an ignition key. The rear entertainment system included Roku media streaming and various connectivity options. While the Navigator's technology wasn't cutting-edge, it was straightforward and functional.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for RWD versions. It offered a range of driver aids, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. The ID.4 also introduced Travel Assist and Emergency Assist, enhancing its safety features.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with four stars for rollover resistance in 4WD models. It offered standard safety features like automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional inflatable rear seat belts added an extra layer of safety for second-row passengers.