2021 Lincoln Navigator vs 2021 Hyundai Palisade

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade Ultimate Calligraphy stood out with its distinctive grille pattern, revised exterior lighting, and unique 20-inch alloy wheels. It featured upgraded interior detailing, including a simulated suede headliner, which contributed to its upscale appearance. The standard LED headlights added a modern touch to the Palisade's design. While opinions on its unconventional styling varied, the Palisade Ultimate Calligraphy undeniably appeared more expensive than its actual cost. Inside, the premium Nappa leather and suede headliner made the cabin feel luxurious, offering a level of sophistication that was impressive for its price point.

In contrast, the 2021 Lincoln Navigator exuded elegance and understatement, despite its massive size. Its design featured simple rectilinear shapes, a body-colour grille, and a few chrome accents, maintaining a classy appearance. The Pristine White model with black wheels and an illuminated Lincoln logo was particularly striking. The Navigator's interior was equally impressive, with seven colour palettes and a focus on finer details. The wood trim, push-button gear selector, and floating centre console added to its modern aesthetic. The Perfect Position seats, with their 30-way adjustability, provided exceptional comfort, making the Navigator feel like a premium offering.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade was equipped with a 3.8-litre V6 engine producing 291 horsepower, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. It offered various driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Smart, Sport, Snow, and a Lock function for improved traction. The Palisade achieved a fuel efficiency of 11.1 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. Its suspension provided excellent body-motion control, making it enjoyable to drive, though not particularly sporty. The Palisade's towing capacity was 2,268 kilograms, and it featured a new seven-pin trailer pre-wiring connector for 2021.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator boasted a twin-turbo 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive in Canada, the Navigator offered impressive acceleration and a satisfying engine sound. Its towing capacity was a substantial 3,765 kilograms. However, its fuel efficiency was less impressive, averaging 13.8 litres per 100 kilometres combined. The Navigator's adaptive dampers provided a less refined ride compared to competitors, and its steering and brakes lacked the precision found in the Cadillac Escalade. Despite these shortcomings, the Navigator excelled in highway refinement and power.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade offered a spacious and accessible interior, with eight-way power-adjustable front seats and heated and ventilated second-row captain's chairs. The third-row seat was more accommodating than most in its class, and the Palisade provided ample in-cabin storage. Cargo space measured 509 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,297 litres with the seats folded, and 2,447 litres in total. The hands-free Smart Liftgate added convenience, though it could be disabled if desired.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator provided generous interior space, accommodating up to eight passengers with its optional bench seating. Cargo capacity was impressive, with 546 litres behind the third row, 1,627 litres behind the second, and 2,925 litres in total. The Navigator L variant offered even more space. The front seats were highly adjustable and comfortable, while the second-row seats could be removed for maximum storage. However, the lack of electrically reclining second-row seats and side window shades were noted as areas for improvement.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade featured two infotainment systems, with either an 8-inch or 10.25-inch touchscreen display. The smaller screen offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while the larger screen required a wired connection. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim included a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, navigation, and Blue Link connected services. Additional features included wireless smartphone charging, a Driver Talk intercom system, and a head-up display.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator's 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system felt dated compared to newer competitors. While it offered Bluetooth, SiriusXM, and a 20-speaker Revel Ultima audio system, it lacked wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The software was intuitive, though slightly slow, and voice recognition was accurate. The Navigator included wireless device charging and a rear entertainment system with Roku media streaming. Drive mode animations added a touch of flair to the instrument panel.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade excelled in safety, with features like adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. It also included lane-keeping systems, a rear occupant alert system, and a Blind View Monitor. The Palisade earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, providing peace of mind for families.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator received five stars overall from the NHTSA, with four stars for rollover resistance. 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 protection. However, the Navigator's adaptive cruise control was less advanced than some competitors.