Choosing between the 2020 Lincoln Navigator and Cadillac Escalade can be more complicated than you’d think. But Lunghamer Ford’s comparison guide is here to help you take a closer look at these beloved three-row luxury SUVs.
Luxury Vibes: It’s a Tie!
Both the 2020 Lincoln Navigator and Cadillac Escalade score major points for upscale style. Outside, these full-size luxury SUVs are both imposing and flashy, with their high stances, big grilles, and chrome trim. Inside, these models are equally attractive, with their respective cabins chock-full of high-end materials and sleek, stylish design.
Cruising Capabilities: 2020 Lincoln Navigator
In terms of raw power, the Navigator has the edge. All three Navigator trim models feature the same engine, a turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 that makes 450 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque.
The Cadillac Escalade, which offers four trim levels, also gives you a single engine option: a 6.2-liter V6. However, it’s not as powerful as the Navigator’s V6, putting out only 420 horses and 460 pound-feet of torque.
Another one of the main draws of a full-size, truck-based SUV is its towing capabilities. The Navigator also has the edge here. Properly equipped, this three-row luxury SUV can tow up to 8,600 pounds. That’s more than the Escalade can handle, because Cadillac’s SUV maxes out at 8,300 pounds.
On-Road Refinement: 2020 Lincoln Navigator
In this high-end segment, you want a model that’s both capable and refined. That’s where the Navigator comes in. Lincoln’s luxury SUV is a smooth operator, rolling over any bumps in the road without disturbing your ride comfort. From the driver’s seat, you’ll love how composed the Navigator feels, even when you’re taking on tight turns.
Once a high point for the Escalade, this full-size luxury SUV feels less refined than current competitors. The Escalade feels smooth and composed in most situations, but, if there are too many bumps in the road, they can interfere with ride comfort.
High-Tech Safety: 2020 Lincoln Navigator
Both full-size luxury SUVs help you keep an eye out for danger. But the 2020 Lincoln Navigator is the only one that comes standard with a suite of safety aids. Lincoln’s Co-Pilot360 package—which includes forward collision detection with automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist—not only alerts you to potential problems, but can actually intercede on your behalf. All but the base Navigator feature a surround-view parking camera, which comes in handy when you’re squeezing this big SUV into a confined space.
With the 2020 Cadillac Escalade, high-tech safety aids are standard on the mid grade Luxury model and up. While most of these features work well, the lane departure warning system can also be a bit slow to react, defeating the purpose somewhat.
We like the 2020 Cadillac Escalade’s robust performance. At the end of the day, though, the 2020 Lincoln Navigator has the edge, especially if you’re looking for a high-end SUV that supplies both cutting-edge technology and modern refinement, inside and out. To see what we mean, visit us at Lunghamer Auto Group in the Lakes Region, near Perry and Owosso, Michigan!