The 2026 Lincoln Navigator vs the Competition
Comparing the 2026 Lincoln Navigator to the competition

Lincoln innovated when the first Navigator helped create the luxury full-size SUV segment in North America three decades ago, and today's 2026 Lincoln Navigator continues to do so by offering exceptional style, space, luxury, and immersive technology in a comfortable yet capable package. All Navigator trims are powered by a 440-horsepower twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6. It sends power through a 10-speed automatic transmission to either the rear or all four wheels. You can choose between a Premiere, Reserve, or the Black Label trim – the latter offering exclusive touches and benefits for owners. It also comes in regular or long-wheelbase models.
Is the 2026 Navigator the right three-row large luxury SUV for you? Let’s see how it compares to its competition.

Lincoln Navigator vs. Cadillac Escalade
Cadillac’s flagship SUV is well equipped to do many things. Powered by either a naturally aspirated or supercharged V-8 – the latter exclusive to the V-Series model - all Escalades have a ten-speed automatic transmission with either rear- or all-wheel drive. Escalades are offered in base, Luxury, Platinum Luxury, Sport, Platinum Sport, and V-Series trims, and are offered in two different wheelbase lengths.
- When it comes to standard power, the Navigator offers more. The Lincoln’s twin-turbocharged engine has 440 horsepower compared to the Escalade’s standard 420-horsepower V8.
- While the Cadillac has an immersive 55-inch “Horizon” screen with multiple views, it is still located lower and closer to the driver. The Lincoln’s 48-inch panoramic display is positioned at the base of the windshield to keep the driver’s focus aimed towards the road ahead. Navigator also incorporates the Lincoln Digital Experience touchscreen display to interact with the driver and front occupant towards customization of the panoramic display.
- Lincoln has the advantage when it comes to fuel economy over the Cadillac. An AWD Escalade is EPA-rated at 14 MPG in the city and 18 MPG on the highway. The Navigator with AWD is rated at 15 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway.
- These large luxury SUVs excel at trailering. While the Escalade is rated up to 8,100 pounds for trailering, the Navigator can tow up to 8,700 pounds.
- Want to make loading cargo from the rear easier? Check out the Navigator’s Split Gate, which adds a strong lower drop-down for leveraging heavier items – or, for tailgating!

Lincoln Navigator vs. Infinit QX80
Based on a global large SUV icon, the luxurious QX80 offers a distinctive design with space and technology to match. Power comes from a 450-horsepower, 3.5-liter turbocharged V-6 engine, connected to a nine-speed automatic transmission with either rear -or all-wheel drive. The QX80 is available in Pure, Luxe, Sport, and Autograph trims.
- While the Infiniti has a dual screen set-up that stretches the standard two-thirds of the dashboard, it is still located lower and closer to the driver. The Lincoln’s 48-inch panoramic display is positioned at the base of the windshield to keep the driver’s focus aimed towards the road ahead. Navigator also incorporates the Lincoln Digital Experience touchscreen display to interact with the driver and front occupant towards customization of the panoramic display.
- If you want to maximize your passenger and cargo space, the QX80 only comes in a single wheelbase model, not an extended one. That is where you step up to the Navigator L with an extra 14.5 cubic feet of cargo space over the standard wheelbase model – bringing it to a total of 121.6 of maximum cargo space.
- When it comes to the fuel pump, you want to save money. That is why the Navigator’s twin-turbo V6 takes regular fuel compared to the QX80’s required premium grade gasoline.
- The QX80 is rated to tow up to 8,100 pounds. However, the Navigator can tow up to 8,700 pounds – and that could make the difference in what you actually tow.
- Want to make loading cargo from the rear easier? Check out the Navigator’s Split Gate, which adds a strong lower drop-down for leveraging heavier items – or, for tailgating!

Lincoln Navigator vs. Mercedes-Benz GLS
As the largest SUV in the Mercedes-Benz lineup, the GLS offers the level of luxury found on its flagship sedan – the S-Class. There is a choice of a 375-horsepower mild-hybrid turbocharged in-line six-cylinder, a 510-horsepower mild-hybrid twin-turbo V-8, or the 603-horsepower AMG hybrid twin-turbo V-8. A nine-speed automatic transmission is standard, along with all-wheel drive. The GLS comes in 450, 580, and AMG 63 trim levels.
- When it comes to standard power, the Navigator offers more. The Lincoln’s twin-turbocharged V-6 engine has 383 horsepower compared to the GLS’s standard 375-horsepower turbocharged mild hybrid engine.
- While Mercedes-Benz offers a 12.3-inch center display touchscreen, the larger 13.2-inch Lincoln Digital Experience touchscreen display is more interactive and easier to use than the GLS’s system.
- The Lincoln’s 48-inch panoramic display is positioned at the windshield to retain the focus on the driver ahead onto the road. This is one solution to the screens found on the GLS.
- If you want to maximize your passenger and cargo space, the GLS only comes in a single wheelbase model, not an extended one. That is where you step up to the Navigator L with an extra 14.5 cubic feet of cargo space over the standard wheelbase model – bringing it to a total of 121.6 of maximum cargo space.
- Did you know that the Mercedes-Benz GLS requires you to fuel up with premium gasoline? The Lincoln Navigator requires regular 87-octane gasoline to fuel its twin-turbo V6.

Lincoln Navigator vs. Jeep Grand Wagoneer
Recently, Jeep updated its largest SUV to consolidate two separate models. That means, the spacious and tech savvy Grand Wagoneer has plenty to offer its loyal customers. It is only powered by a 420-horsepower twin-turbocharged in-line six-cylinder engine driving either the rear- or all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. There is also a wide choice of trim levels with base, Limited Altitude, Upland, 85th Anniversary Edition, Limited Reserve, Summit Obsidian, and Summit Reserve.
- When it comes to standard power, the Navigator offers the most. The Lincoln’s twin-turbocharged V6 engine has 440 horsepower compared to the Grand Wagoneer’s 420 horsepower in its twin-turbocharged in-line six-cylinder engine.
- If you are looking for convenience from your infotainment system, the Jeep Grand Wagoneer does not offer Google Built-in, as in the Navigator. Through the 13.2-inch Lincoln Digital Experience touchscreen, it expands your infotainment options, using Google’s apps and its natural-voice Assistant.
- The Lincoln’s 48-inch panoramic display is positioned at the windshield to retain the focus on the driver ahead onto the road. This is one solution to the multiple screens found on most Grand Wagoneer models.
- Cargo space is important for families shopping for a large SUV. The Grand Wagoneer offers up to 94.2 cubic feet, while the long wheelbase models can carry up to 116.7 cubic feet. The Navigator offers more with a maximum of 107 cubic feet of regular wheelbase models and 121.6 cubic feet on Navigator L models.
- Jeep models are only offered a bumper-to-bumper warranty of 6-month/36,000-mile warranty with a 60-month/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Lincoln provides every Navigator owner with a 48-month/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, along with a 72-month/70,000-mile powertrain warranty. Add the benefits of the Lincoln Ownership Experience, and you will have a vehicle worth keeping for the long run.
Compare 2026 Lincoln Navigator to the Competition
| Full Size Luxury Crossover | Lincoln Navigator | Cadillac Escalade | Infiniti QX80 | Mercedes-Benz GLS | Jeep Grand Wagoneer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trims | 3 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 7 |
| Colors | 8 | 7 | 7 | 22 | 8 |
| Engine | 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged | 6.2-liter | 3.5-liter | 3.0-liter Turbo I-6 Mild Hybrid 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 mild hybrid 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 hybrid | 3.0-liter Twin-Turbo I-6 |
| Horsepower | 440 | 420 V: 682 | 450 | 3.0T: 375 4.0T: 510 AMG: 603 | 420 |
| Torque | 510 | 460 @ 4100 V: 653 | 516 | 3.0T: 369 @ 1600 4.0T: 538 @ 2600 AMG: 627 @ 2500 | 468 @ 3500 |
| Transmission | 10-speed auto | 10-speed auto | 9-speed auto | 9-speed auto | 8-speed auto |
| DriveTrain | 4WD | 2WD, 4WD | RWD, 4WD | AWD | 2WD, 4WD |
| Fuel Economy (City/Hwy/Comb) | 15 / 22 / 17 | 6.2L - 15 / 19 / 17 | RWD - 16 / 20 / 18 4WD - 16 / 19 / 17 | 3.0T: 19 / 24 / 21 4.0T: 14 / 20 / 16 | 2WD: 17 / 24 / 19 4WD: 17 / 23 / 19 |
| Max Towing Capacity | 8,700 | 8,100 | 8,500 | 7,700 | 10,000 |
| Infotainment | 11" | 17.7" | 14.3" | 12.3" | 12" |
| Passenger Volume | 172.1 cu.ft. | 185.9 cu.ft. | N/A | N/A | 182 cu.ft. |
| Front Headroom | 39.6 | 42.3 | 39.1 | 39.4 | 39.3 |
| Front Legroom | 43.5 | 44.5 | 43.8 | 40.3 | 40.9 |
| 3rd Row Headroom | 37.4 | 38.2 | 36.2 | 38.9 | 38.5 |
| 3rd Row Legroom | 36.5 | 34.9 ESV: 36.7 | 32.9 | 34.6 | 36.6 |
| Cargo Space Behind 3rd Row Seats | 21.6 L: 36.1 | 25.5 ESV: 41.5 | 20.4 cu.ft. | 17.4 cu.ft. | 27.5 L: 42.6 |
| Cargo Space Behind 2nd Row Seats | 60.8 L: 75.4 | 72.9 ESV: 94.1 | 56.3 cu.ft. | 42.7 cu.ft. | 70.8 L: 88 |
| Cargo Space Behind 1st Row Seats | 107.0 L: 121.6 | 120.5 ESV: 142.2 | 97.1 cu.ft. | 84.7 cu.ft. | 94.2 L: 116.7 |
| Base Price | $89,995 | $91,100 | $85,590 | $90,250 | $63,995 Summit: $95,005 |
Why Buy from Stivers Lincoln of Montgomery?
At Stivers Lincoln of Montgomery, you will have an automotive experience unlike any other. You can find new Lincoln inventory, including the Aviator, Nautilus, and an unmatched collection of used car, truck, van, SUV, and crossover inventory at our dealership in Montgomery, AL. Are you interested in leasing or financing your Lincoln Navigator? The Finance Department at Stivers Lincoln of Montgomery can help you find the right lease offer or finance solution that fits your budget. We cultivate relationships with many banks, lenders, and other financial organizations to provide you with great options in purchasing your new vehicle. In addition to the comprehensive factory warranty that comes with your new Navigator, we offer extended warranty and protection programs to safeguard your investment. Get the best deals and specials available to you on the Lincoln Navigator. Our knowledgeable sales staff wants to help you find the perfect fit in a new Lincoln or used car. We can’t wait to welcome you to the Stivers Lincoln of Montgomery family and help you find your new car or used vehicle. Your support and customer service doesn’t stop after you sign your deal. The expert Service Department at our Lincoln dealership in Montgomery, AL is always ready to help with any repairs or maintenance you might need to keep your vehicle running perfectly. Our Express Service Lane will get you back on the road quickly when you need basic maintenance like an oil change or tire rotation. Would you like to make your new car all your own with personalized upgrades? Our well-stocked Parts Department has all of the Lincoln genuine parts and accessories you need for the best customization of your vehicle. Make your car, truck, or SUV uniquely yours to fit perfectly in your lifestyle. We are eager to help you on your car buying and vehicle ownership journey. Visit us today at Stivers Lincoln of Montgomery!
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