2020 Lincoln Navigator vs 2020 Mazda CX-5

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator was a standout in the luxury SUV segment, distinguished by its unique design elements that set it apart from its Ford Expedition roots. Designers incorporated exclusive front and rear styling, a lattice-type grille with an illuminated Lincoln star, and full-width taillights, all contributing to its upscale appearance. The Navigator also featured the Lincoln Embrace lighting system, which sequentially illuminated the SUV to welcome its owner. Inside, the Navigator boasted a Dark Slate leather interior with 30-way Perfect Position front seats, a panoramic glass roof, and high-quality materials, creating a convincingly luxurious flagship SUV experience.

In contrast, the 2020 Mazda CX-5 excelled in executing a premium feel through captivating style and continual product improvement. The CX-5's interior, especially in Signature trim, featured premium Nappa leather upholstery, real wood, and a black headliner, giving it a luxurious look. However, the Caturra Brown leather was almost indistinguishable from the otherwise black cabin, reducing the contrast that often enhances a premium feel. Despite its smaller size compared to competitors, the CX-5's interior reflected style and good taste, with elegant metallic accents and clear gauges.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a robust twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque, surpassing the Ford Expedition's most powerful version. This engine was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, offering multiple drive modes like Conserve, Normal, and Excite. The Navigator's towing capacity reached 8,700 pounds with rear-wheel drive and 8,300 pounds with four-wheel drive, aided by Pro Trailer Backup Assist. Despite its size, the Navigator demonstrated excellent body motion control, though it averaged 16.4 mpg on the testing loop, slightly below the EPA's 18 mpg combined estimate.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 offered a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The Grand Touring Reserve and Signature trims featured a turbocharged version, producing up to 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque with premium fuel. The turbocharged engine provided strong acceleration, though it was less efficient, averaging 22.1 mpg on the testing loop. The CX-5's G-Vectoring Control Plus technology enhanced driving engagement, but excessive body motions detracted from its overall thrill. Nevertheless, the CX-5 remained enjoyable in typical driving situations.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator offered a spacious interior, with the test vehicle featuring 30-way Perfect Position front seats and a power-adjustable steering wheel. The second row could be configured with either a bench or captain's chairs, and the third row provided ample legroom and thigh support. Cargo volumes were class-leading, with the standard-length model offering 19.3 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 103.3 cubic feet with seats folded. The longer Navigator L increased these measurements significantly, making it a top choice for passenger comfort and cargo space.

In contrast, the 2020 Mazda CX-5's interior was more cramped compared to mainstream compact crossovers like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. However, Mazda focused on an upscale cabin with a generous list of standard equipment. The CX-5 Signature's front seats were comfortable, though rear passengers might find legroom lacking. Cargo space measured 30.9 cubic feet behind the rear seat, expanding to 59.6 cubic feet with the back seat folded. Despite its smaller size, the CX-5's interior reflected style and good taste, with elegant metallic accents and clear gauges.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator featured the Sync 3 infotainment system, which, while functional, was less impressive due to its slow loading times. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The Reserve's Luxury Package added a 20-speaker Revel Ultima audio system, providing a compelling audio experience. Additional technologies included a surround-view camera system and a head-up display, though the test vehicle lacked the optional Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 was equipped with the Mazda Connect infotainment system, which, while upscale, required a period of acclimation. The system included a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, and HD Radio, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto added in Touring trim. The Grand Touring trim featured an 8-inch touchscreen and a 10-speaker Bose premium sound system. Signature trim enhanced technology with navigation and a surround-view camera system. Despite its upscale impression, the system's controls were not ideal, and voice-recognition technology was limited.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator came with the Lincoln Co-Pilot360 suite of advanced driving assistance systems, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability was standard on Reserve trim. The Navigator earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, though its rollover resistance rating was three stars with rear-wheel drive. The IIHS had not tested the 2020 model.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 featured the i-Activsense suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keep assist. The CX-5 earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Its performance in individual testing parameters was exemplary, making it a safe choice for consumers.