2021 Cadillac Escalade vs. Lincoln Navigator

When it comes to full-size luxury SUVs, the two models credited with pioneering the mainstream appeal of this segment are unquestionably the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. Upon their introduction in the late 1990s, luxury shoppers flocked to these SUVs for their commanding presence on the road, robust performance capabilities, and unparalleled interior comfort. These two familiar foes have continued to evolve over the years and are now more luxurious and tech-savvy than ever before, making your buying decision much more difficult. Not to worry! Cadillac of Easton has prepared this in-depth model comparison that helps you see the advantages of choosing the Cadillac Escalade over the Lincoln Navigator.
Cadillac Escalade vs Lincoln Navigator


2021 Cadillac Escalade Luxury 4X4 | VS | 2021 Lincoln Navigator Standard 4X4 |
$79,195 | MSRP | $78,855 |
6.2L V8 ✓ | Engine | 3.5L V6 |
Duramax 3.0L Turbo Diesel ✓ | Available Engine | None |
Regular Unleaded ✓ | Fuel Type | Premium Unleaded |
42.3 / 44.5 inches ✓ | Front Headroom / Legroom | 41.8 / 43.9 inches |
Exclusive AKG Studio Reference – 36 Speaker ✓ | Available Audio System | Revel Ultima Audio System – 20 Speaker |
Available ✓ | Soft-Close Doors | Not Available |
Industry-First Curved OLED with over 38 inches of total diagonal display area ✓ | Display Screen | 10-inch LCD |
Available ✓ | Night Vision System | Not Available |
Available Segment-First Cadillac Super Cruise ✓ | Semi-Autonomous Driving Capabilities | Not Available |
22 inches ✓ | Wheel Size | 20 inches |
1 Year / 12,000 Miles ✓ | Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance | Not Included |
For fairness, we’ll begin this competitive comparison with equivalent entry-level trims of both the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator equipped with 4×4 systems. In terms of price, the two share virtually identical MSRPs. Unfortunately for Lincoln, that’s where the similarities end.
Compared to the smaller 3.5L turbocharged V6 found on the Navigator, the Escalade comes standard with a muscular 6.2L V8 that’s been continuously refined for over a decade. You’ll enjoy the flexibility of filling up with either regular or premium fuel while Lincoln requires only premium. It’s instantaneous response and low-end torque is rivaled only by the optional Duramax 3.0L Turbo Diesel, also offered on the Escalade. Lincoln shoppers are limited to just one engine option.


Cutting-edge driver-assist technologies available on the Escalade include the segment-first Cadillac Super Cruise semi-autonomous cruise control feature and Night Vision that helps you see in the dark. Both features are not offered on the Lincoln Navigator. Finally, the Escalade comes standard with bold 22-inch alloy wheels and Cadillac also covers your first scheduled maintenance visit free-of-charge.

Winner – Cadillac Escalade
No matter which way you look at it, the Cadillac Escalade proves to be the superior choice compared to the Lincoln Navigator. Lincoln simply cannot compete with the industry-leading innovation, premium feature content, revolutionary technology, and eye-catching style found across the entire Cadillac Escalade range. Our team at Cadillac of Easton cordially invites you to come experience all that the bold Cadillac Escalade has to offer.