2020 Lincoln Navigator vs 2019 INFINITI QX50

The 2019 INFINITI QX50 presented a wider and taller design compared to its predecessor, offering increased ground clearance and interior space. With 31.4 cubic feet of trunk space and modular rear seats, it provided ample room without compromising rear legroom, even for taller passengers. The interior was redesigned to be spacious and attractive, featuring high-quality materials and a new infotainment system. The cabin was notably quiet, aided by a noise-cancelling system, making conversations at highway speeds easy. The base "Pure" trim started at $36,550, offering a range of standard features, while the "Luxe" and "Essential" trims added more luxury and technology options, with the top-tier trim priced at $43,350. Additional packages like the Sensory and ProPilot assist enhanced the vehicle's luxury and safety features, though they significantly increased the overall cost.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator distinguished itself with unique styling elements, such as a lattice-type grille and an illuminated Lincoln star logo. The Navigator's design included Lincoln-specific features like fender vents and full-width taillights, with black roof pillars creating a wraparound glass appearance. The Reserve Monochromatic Package added a custom look with body-color enhancements and 22-inch black-painted wheels. The Navigator offered various trims, including the standard, Reserve, and Black Label, with options for standard or long-wheelbase models and rear or four-wheel drive. The test vehicle, a standard-length Navigator Reserve with 4WD, was priced at $92,385. Inside, the Navigator featured a Dark Slate leather interior with 30-way Perfect Position front seats, a dashboard with mid-century modern styling, and a spacious two-tiered storage console. The interior was bathed in natural light from a panoramic glass roof, and high-quality materials were used throughout, making the Navigator a luxurious flagship SUV.

The 2019 INFINITI QX50 was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, notable for being the first mass-produced variable-compression engine. It produced 268 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, with a 0-60 time of 6.4 seconds. However, the continuously variable transmission (CVT) was criticized for its performance, particularly in city driving, where it struggled with power delivery. The QX50's fuel efficiency was rated at 24 city and 31 highway mpg, with a combined rating of 27 mpg, though real-world tests showed lower figures. The ride prioritized comfort over sportiness, but the Direct Adaptive Steering system was not well-received, feeling inconsistent and disconnected.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator featured a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. A 10-speed automatic transmission managed power delivery, with rear-wheel drive standard and four-wheel drive optional. The Navigator offered multiple drive modes, including Conserve, Normal, and Excite, tailoring the powertrain to different driving conditions. It had a maximum towing capacity of 8,700 pounds with rear-wheel drive. The Navigator's acceleration was strong, though the engine note lacked the traditional V8 rumble. Fuel economy was a concern, with an average of 16.4 mpg during testing. The Navigator's ride was generally smooth, though 22-inch wheels and adaptive damping suspension struggled with impact harshness on rough roads.

The 2019 INFINITI QX50's interior was well-crafted with high-quality materials and ample space. However, the abundance of technology made the dashboard cluttered and confusing, with multiple screens and controls. The infotainment system suffered from input delays, particularly in navigation. The shifter design was unconventional, with a separate "PARK" button, which could lead to user errors.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator required a climb to enter, but once inside, it offered generous space for all passengers. The test vehicle's 30-way Perfect Position front seats were highly adjustable, and the second row offered a choice between a bench or captain's chairs. The third row provided excellent legroom and thigh support. Cargo space was class-leading, with 19.3 cubic feet behind the third row in the standard model, expanding to 103.3 cubic feet with seats folded. The longer Navigator L offered even more space.

The 2019 INFINITI QX50 offered advanced safety tech through the ProActive package, but it was only available on the top-tier Essential trim. The base model was well-equipped, but the infotainment system was frustrating due to input delays.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator's Sync 3 infotainment system was slow to load, but it included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a WiFi hotspot. "Phone As A Key" technology allowed smartphone-based vehicle access. The Reserve's Luxury Package included a 20-speaker Revel Ultima audio system, and additional tech features included a surround-view camera and head-up display.

The 2019 INFINITI QX50's safety features were limited by trim level, with advanced systems only available on higher trims. It had not been tested by major safety organizations.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator came with the Lincoln Co-Pilot360 suite, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. It received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, though the rollover resistance rating was three stars for RWD models. The IIHS had not tested the 2020 model.