2021 Lincoln Navigator

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Rating7.8

Ranked #10 in 

Fullsize SUV
Write Review
$76,705 - $101,855
Starting Price 
Nathan Dyer's image
Nathan Dyer 

Senior Editor,

Updated on July 19, 2024

ProsConsWhat's New

Poternt engine

Ride feels harsh at times

A new color palette for the exterior replaces the old one

Plush and luxurious cabin

Not manuevarable

New optional Monochromatic appearance package

Class leading seating and cargo space

Intutive infotainment system

Wealth of standard features

Specs & Features

$76,705

price

450 hp @ 5500 rpm

horsepower

510 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm

torque

10-Speed Shiftable Automatic

transmission

3.5L 6cyl RWD 10A

engine

-

basic warranty

Overview

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator remains practically unchanged this year apart from a few aesthetic updates over the previous model year. The changes include an optional Monochromatic appearance package that gets dark exterior treatment instead of chrome and black alloy wheels instead of silver. Lincoln has also replaced 4 paint color options with 4 new ones and is expected to give the Navigator a mid-cycle refresh next year. The 2021 Lincoln Navigator price starts at an MSRP of $78,400 including the $1,695 destination fee and sees a price hike of $920.

Featuring a 3-trim lineup of the Navigator, the 2021 Lincoln Navigator MSRP can be an expense of $78,400-$100,350 this season. Having said that, it simply translates to the fact that the range-leader 2021 Lincoln Navigator Black Label will cost you $21,950 more than the base 2021 Navigator for enhanced specs and assets.

We Recommend

While the top-end Black Label trim tends to get very expensive as its price stands on par with other premium European luxury SUVs, we would suggest opting for the 2021 Lincoln Navigator Reserve trim which offers the most value for money to its buyers. 

The 2021 Navigator continues to be powered by the same 3.5-liter twin-turbo 450-hp V6 engine that offers strong acceleration and towing performance. The Lincoln Navigator interior not only offers abundant passenger and cargo space, but the available safety, technology, and creature comforts also make it a strong option in the full-size luxury SUV segment. At this price point, the Navigator 2021 competes against the likes of the BMW X7, Cadillac Escalade, Infiniti QX80, and the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class.

2021 Lincoln Navigator for sale

The Lincoln Navigator 2021 is available for sale with finance offers starting at $1,368/month for a 60-month tenure at 3.9% APR and a $7,840 down payment. The Lincoln Navigator lease deals begin at a monthly premium of $1,245 for a period of 36 months and a 12,000-mile annual mileage limit. The lease deal also requires the same down payment as the finance offer along with the $645 acquisition fee.

For budget-oriented buyers, the used Lincoln Navigator can be availed of with a base price of $1,950. Going for older model years like the 2018 Lincoln Navigator could be a matter of $39,999 and Lincoln Navigator 2018 can cost as much as $82,500 along with a listing of up to 349 in total.

Buying Advice

Even though the Base trim is equipped with some decent equipment, it misses out on some necessities. It would be more advantageous if you opt for the Reserve trim and bundle it up with the Trailer Tow package if you love to tow your trailer a lot. With features like a 20 speaker audio system, 22-inch Tarnish Dark Painted Wheels, upgraded leather upholstery, and upgraded 24-way power-adjustable front seats, the Reserve trim makes for a value for money option in the lineup.

Comparative Analysis against Competition

A bold grille highlights the imposing stance of the new Navigator, which is a testament to its unapologetic strength. It takes those unbridled 450 ponies and gives itself the capability to carry eight passengers in ultra-plush comfort.  When it comes to Lincoln Navigator towing capacity, it holds as much as 6,200 lbs of towing capacity. Lincoln navigator safety metrics also stand out with a five-star rating from the NHTSA.

The Lincoln SUV can be elaborated further with a Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow package and an optional Monochromatic appearance package. The 2021 Lincoln Navigator has a maintenance cost of $3,467 along with an estimated repairing expense of $1,452 over a course of five years. A depreciation in its resale value could hit as high as $50,000 for the same period.

Features
8.5/10

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator is offered in three majestic trim levels, namely Standard, Reserve, and Black Label. All these variants have Tri-zone automatic climate control, Adaptive LED headlights, 10-inch infotainment touchscreen, Heated and ventilated power-adjustable front seats, Heated second-row seats, and Rain-Sensing Windshield Wipers as the common highlight features.

The Reserve trim adds a head-up display, a panoramic sunroof, power-adjustable front seats, and surround-view parking cameras on top of the base trim. The top-of-the-line Navigator Black Label comes with all the luxury that Lincoln has to offer with a Chrome Grille, Curated interior color and trim packages, 22-inch Ebony Black Paint Wheels, Heated side mirrors, LED fog lamps, and integrated Lincoln's proprietary Lincoln-Connect.

Trims

Base

Reserve

Black Label

MSRP (RWD)

$76,185

$81,965

-

MSRP (4WD)

$78,855

$84,640

$98,125

Key Features

Tri-zone automatic climate control

Adds/Upgrades features of Base trim

Adds/Upgrades features of Reserve trim

 

Adaptive LED headlights

Panoramic sunroof

Chrome Grille

 

Digital gauge cluster display

Head-up display

Curated interior color and trim packages

  10-inch infotainment touchscreen with 14-speaker sound system
20-speaker audio system

22-inch Ebony Black Paint Wheels

  Heated and ventilated power-adjustable front seats 360-degree camera system LED fog lamps
  Heated second-row seats 22-inch Tarnish Dark Painted Wheels Venetian leather seat trim
  Wireless device charging 24-way power-adjustable front seats Lincoln Connect

Fuel Economy
7.3/10

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator gas mileage is quite good for a vehicle of this class and size. In cities, the fuel economy is rated at 16 mpg, while highway miles are accounted for at 21 mpg, and combining these figures yields 18 mpg. A 23.2-gallon gasoline tank that is standard on the 2021 Lincoln Navigator allows it to cover as much as 487.6 miles in a single fill.

Models

2021 Lincoln Navigator

2021 Cadillac Escalade

2021 BMW X7

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class

MPG (City)

16

15

20

19

MPG (Highway)

21

20

25

23

MPG (Combined)

18

17

22

21

Fuel Capacity (gallons)

23.2

24

21.9

23.8

Range (City/ Highway/ Combined)

371.2/487.2/417.6

360.0/480.0/408.0 miles

438.0/547.5/481.8

452.2/547.4/499.8 miles

With a lighter curb weight than competitors, the BMW X7 offers the best fuel economy at 22 mpg combined. On the other hand, the GLS-Class is more fuel-efficient than Navigator by offering 3 mpg more than Navigator in combined scenarios. Cadillac's expansive fuel tank ensures that it can drive for longer distances without stopping at a gas station, but it's least fuel-efficient among its competitors. 

Interior
7.3/10

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator interior exudes luxury providing seats covered in high-end leather for an outstanding plush feel and featuring adjustable massage functions that use air chambers to streamline your travel experience. An elegant and sturdy center console made of genuine wood goes well with leather trim seats, packed with heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, power tilt/telescope steering wheel with memory, power-adjustable pedals with memory, 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat with memory and lumbar support, and heated steering wheel as standard across all the trims.

Models

2021 Lincoln Navigator

2021 Cadillac Escalade

2021 BMW X7

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class

Seating Capacity

7

7

7

7

Front (Headroom/Shoulder Room/Leg Room, in inches)

41.8/65.2/43.9

42.8/ 64.9/ 45.3

41.3/63.9/42.5

39.4/59.3/40.3

Second (Headroom/Shoulder Room/Leg Room, in inches)

40.0/65.1/41.5

38.7/ 64.4/ 39.0

39.5/62.8/39.6

40.2/58.5/41.9

Third (Headroom/Shoulder Room/Leg Room, in inches)

37.3/64.2/36.1

38.2/ 62.7/ 34.9

36.6/47.9/33.3

38.9/50.3/34.6

Cargo Volume (cubic feet)

19.3 cu-ft

25.5 cu-ft

18.2 cu-ft

17.4 cu-ft

While it gives all of its competitors a run for their money regarding seating, the Cadillac Escalade offers more space for the first row than the Lincoln Navigator seats. The Navigator seats provide sufficient wiggle space inside the vehicle but do not outshine any metrics and give balanced space to all passengers. For entertainment and infotainment, Lincoln Navigator features a 10-inch high-resolution LCD touchscreen with a touchpad, along with with a 14-speaker Revel premium sound system. A cargo room of 19.3 cubic feet ensures that one can pack and go for long trips without any concerns.

  • Tri-zone Electronic Automatic Climate Control
  • 12-inch digital driver display
  • Head-up Display
  • Auto-dimming frameless rearview mirror
  • 10-way power front seats with power lumbar 
  • Heated and Ventilated front seats
  • Ambient Lighting
  • Front Console with winged armrest
  • Heated leather-wrapped steering wheel 
  • Reading Lamps
  • 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat with memory and lumbar support
  • Power adjustable pedals with memory

Exterior
7.3/10

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator, with its chic curves and chrome detailing goes great with the curvaceous roofline, supplying a sleeker profile while maintaining higher seating. Standard Navigator models come with 20-inch machined alloy wheels and chrome-tipped dual exhaust tips in the rear. A large precisely positioned set of projector-beam headlamps and Revised LED Daytime Running Lamps (DRLs) accentuate the new signature front styling.

The Reserve model adds 22-inch alloy wheels and a panoramic vista roof. The Black Label model adds an illuminated Lincoln star to the grille. Every Navigator comes standard with a complete set of LED exterior lights, which include headlights, taillights, daytime running lights, and fog lights. The Lincoln Navigator weight metric does come in at the highest though, at 5,855 lbs.

Models

2021 Lincoln Navigator

2021 Cadillac Escalade

2021 BMW X7

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class

Curb Weight (lbs)

5,855 lbs

5,635 lbs

5,370 lbs

5,701lbs

Length (inches)

212.0

211.9

203.3

205.0

Width (inches)

79.9

81.1

78.7

77.0

Height (inches)

76.3

76.7

71.1

71.8

Ground Clearance (inches)

9.6

9.3

8.7

7.9

Wheelbase (inches)

122.5

120.9

122.2

123.4

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator is the heaviest of all SUVs because of its extensively upgraded mechanicals and interior convenience equipment. Diagonally, though, the Cadillac Escalade is the largest, so it offers the most comfort. The BMW X7 is the most compact model in the group, on the other hand, the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class features the longest wheelbase in the competition.

  • Adaptive, Automatic On/Off LED Headlamps
  • Active Grille Shutters
  • Illuminated Lincoln Star in Grille
  • Illuminated Power-Deployable Running Boards
  • Dual Exhaust with Chrome Tips
  • Hands-Free Liftgate

Safety
6.0/10

Based on the success of previous versions of the Navigator, the 2021 Lincoln Navigator will be equally safe. In addition to its class-exclusive driver assistance features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping alert, and auto high-beam headlamps, the Navigator also includes advanced security features. Several driver safety assistance systems, including a forward collision mitigation system, blind-spot detection system, and lane-keeping assist are built into Lincoln Co-pilot 360, which is standard on all trims and add to the SUV safety. Standard and available safety features include:

  • Lane-Keeping Assist system
  • Front and rear parking sensors
  • Blind-spot monitoring
  • Forward and Reverse Sensing
  • Rear cross-traffic alert
  • Forward collision warning
  • Pedestrian detection
  • Lane keep assist
  • Available Head-up display
  • Available Auto park assist
  • Available Surround-view parking camera system

Competition
9.0/10

2021 Lincoln Navigator vs 2021 BMW X7

Both the 2021 BMW X7 and the 2021 Lincoln Navigator offer top-of-the-line comfort and convenience features, including a large and luxurious interior, rear seats that recline, and more. With its plush interiors, potent engine, and very composed and refined ride quality, the BMW X7 stands out. However, it lacks practicality, and that is where you find the Lincoln Navigator, which provides a memorable and practical ride each time you travel in it. 

2021 Lincoln Navigator vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator and 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class are heavy-duty luxury vehicles that are similar in many ways. Both appeal to customers who value comfort and convenience and drivers who value a smooth ride over serious off-road capability. However, Lincoln Navigator offers the best value in terms of comfort, luxury, and convenience items with the best value in class. On the other hand, the GLS-Class offers very smooth performance and excellent drive dynamics.

2021 Lincoln Navigator vs 2021 Cadillac Escalade

With the arrival of the 2021 Lincoln Navigator, the Cadillac Escalade is seen as an eternal competitor once again. While the Lincoln Navigator appears to be a nearly identical car on paper, it is significantly different in terms of both its road presence and its interior luxury. Further, the Navigator provides more space per passenger than the Escalade, whose front row is crammed. Plus, the Lincoln comes equipped with a smaller but stronger engine, resulting in a more efficient and performance-oriented SUV than the Escalade.

Final Verdict

Created to truly stand out in a sea of sport utilities, the 2021 Lincoln Navigator redefines luxury on the move with a host of luxury features that let you drift off to sleep in complete comfort even on the longest of journeys. From the standpoint of comfort, technology, and horsepower, the 2021 Lincoln Navigator is an impressive SUV. All in all, the luxurious SUV would make a great addition to any family or executive's car fleet.

Trims

    Base
    $76,705 onwards
    • A-Spec Sport Seats
    • Dual zone automatic front air conditioning
    • Heated Front Seats
    • Rear air conditioning, with separate controls
    • SiriusXM AM/FM/HD/Satellite, Radio
    L
    $79,905 onwards
    • Engine: 3.5L 6cyl 4WD 10A
    • Horsepower: 450 hp @ 5500 rpm hp
    • Torque: 510 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: 5.9 sec
    • Top Speed: TBD mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: 17 mpg
    Reserve
    $82,490 onwards
    • 1st and 2nd row Sliding and tilting glass Sunroof
    • 22-inch machined w/painted accents aluminum Wheels
    • Leather Seat trim
    L Reserve
    $85,715 onwards
    • Engine: 3.5L 6cyl 4WD 10A
    • Horsepower: 450 hp @ 5500 rpm hp
    • Torque: 510 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: 5.4 sec
    • Top Speed: TBD mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: 18 mpg
    L Black Label
    $101,855 onwards
    • Engine: 3.5L 6cyl 4WD 10A
    • Horsepower: 450 hp @ 5500 rpm hp
    • Torque: 510 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: 5.4 sec
    • Top Speed: TBD mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: 17 mpg

Compare to similar cars

Price

$76,705- $101,855

Engine

Gasoline

Rating

7.76

Horsepower

450 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque

510 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm

Capacity

8

Read Review

$76,195- $103,595

Gasoline

7.75

420 hp @ 5600 rpm

460 lb.-ft. @ 4100 rpm

7

Read Review

$49,625- $77,425

Gasoline

7.67

375 hp @ 5000 rpm

470 lb.-ft. @ 2250 rpm

5

Read Review

$74,900- $99,800

Gasoline

7.98

335 hp @ 5500 rpm

332 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm

7

Read Review

$51,570- $88,985

Gasoline

7.89

400 hp @ 5500 rpm

415 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm

7

Read Review

$92,000- $211,000

Gasoline

8.12

355 hp @ 5500 rpm

365 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm

5

Read Review

$86,930- $91,930

Gasoline

6.49

383 hp @ 5600 rpm

403 lb.-ft. @ 3600 rpm

5

Read Review

$335,000- $388,000

Gasoline

9.07

571 hp @ 5000 rpm

627 lb.-ft. @ 1600 rpm

5

Read Review

$69,150- $83,400

Gasoline

6.92

400 hp @ 5800 rpm

413 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm

7

Read Review

$76,000

Gasoline

8.17

362 hp @ 5500 rpm

369 lb.-ft. @ 1600 rpm

-

Read Review

2021 Lincoln Navigator vs competitor's 0-60

    Car Name
    0-60 MPH
    Quarter Mile
    Top Speed
    SourceCompare
    5.1 sec13.7 sec-
    5 sec--
    5 sec13.5 sec-
    5.5 sec13.3 sec152 mph
    5.7 sec14.2 sec140 mph
    2021 BMW X7

    Ranked #5

    5.8 sec14.2 sec155 mph

    2021 Lincoln Navigator vs competitor's MPG

      Car Name
      MPG City
      MPG Highway
      MPG Combined
      Fuel Tank Capacity
      Range (C/H)
      SourceCompare
      16 mpg22 mpg18 mpg23 gal.377.6/519.2 mi.
      18 mpg26 mpg21 mpg20.2 gal.363.6/525.2 mi.
      2021 BMW X7

      Ranked #1

      19 mpg24 mpg21 mpg21.9 gal.416.1/525.6 mi.
      20 mpg24 mpg21 mpg23.8 gal.- -
      18 mpg23 mpg20 mpg27.5 gal.495/632.5 mi.
      17 mpg23 mpg19 mpg23.3 gal.394.4/533.6 mi.

      2021 Lincoln Navigator vs competitor's dimensions

        Car Name
        Length
        Width
        Height
        Ground Clearance
        Wheelbase
        SourceCompare
        210 in.79.9 in.76.4 in.9.7 in.122.5 in.

        2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV

        Ranked #1

        227 in.81.1 in.76.4 in.8 in.134.1 in.

        2021 Ford Expedition MAX

        Ranked #2

        221.9 in.93.4 in.76.4 in.9.8 in.131.6 in.
        211.9 in.81.1 in.76.7 in.8 in.120.9 in.
        210.2 in.79.9 in.75.8 in.9.2 in.121.1 in.
        210 in.79.9 in.76.6 in.9.8 in.122.5 in.

        2021 Lincoln Navigator vs competitor's trunk space

          Car Name
          Trunk Capacity
          Passenger Volume
          Max Trunk Volume
          SourceCompare
          19.3 cu.ft.-103.3 cu.ft.
          2021 BMW X7

          Ranked #1

          47.2 cu.ft.97.3 cu.ft.90.4 cu.ft.
          57.5 cu.ft.106.1 cu.ft.104.6 cu.ft.
          18.3 cu.ft.144.7 cu.ft.77.7 cu.ft.
          25.5 cu.ft.85 cu.ft.121 cu.ft.
          16.6 cu.ft.89 cu.ft.95.1 cu.ft.

          2021 Lincoln Navigator vs competitor's cargo space

            Car Name
            Cargo Volume
            Cargo Volume w/ Seat Area
            Max Cargo Volume
            Bed Length
            SourceCompare
            13.8 cu.ft.19.3 cu.ft.103.3 cu.ft.79 ft.
            2021 BMW X7

            Ranked #2

            89.7 cu.ft.47.2 cu.ft.90.4 cu.ft.-
            12.4 cu.ft.16.6 cu.ft.95.1 cu.ft.-
            83.1 cu.ft.57.5 cu.ft.104.6 cu.ft.-
            29.9 cu.ft.25.5 cu.ft.121 cu.ft.-
            -21 cu.ft.--

            2021 Lincoln Navigator vs competitor's towing capacity

              Car Name
              Towing Capacity
              Payload Capacity
              Weight
              SourceCompare
              8600 lbs.1620 lbs.5673 lbs.
              9300 lbs.1757 lbs.5443 lbs.
              8500 lbs.1622 lbs.5678 lbs.
              8200 lbs.1636 lbs.5356 lbs.
              7716 lbs.1713 lbs.4974 lbs.
              2021 BMW X7

              Ranked #6

              7500 lbs.1208 lbs.5370 lbs.

              2021 Lincoln Navigator SUV Problems, Issues, Complaints, Recalls, and which year to avoid?

              8

              Recalls

              0

              Investigations

              20

              Complaints
              Overall Safety Rating
              Read More

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