2025 Lincoln Navigator vs. Cadillac Escalade: A major overhaul with an emphasis on luxury, technology and semi-autonomous driving features
The 2025 Lincoln Navigator is a serious challenger to the Cadillac Escalade and marks a significant evolution of the luxury SUV. With a clear focus on refinement and innovation, Lincoln aims to reclaim its position in the segment. Inspired by the Nautilus, the Navigator’s redesigned exterior exudes sophisticated appeal, while its interior promises a higher level of opulence and technology.
The introduction of the innovative Split Gate tailgate is a bold statement and offers unprecedented comfort and versatility. With the Escalade recently undergoing its transformation, the competitive world is more intense than ever. The comprehensive redesign of the Navigator makes it a compelling alternative for discerning luxury buyers seeking a harmonious blend of style, comfort and cutting-edge features.
Lincoln has radically changed its interior design. The highlight is a 48-inch panoramic display that dominates the dashboard. It is complemented by a lower 11.1-inch screen that seamlessly integrates Google services and offers standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
A unique feature, Pano Mode, transforms the cabin into a mobile entertainment oasis when parked, enabling an immersive video and gaming experience on the large display. The interior has been further refined with a modern two-spoke steering wheel, an elegantly redesigned center console with wood and leather accents and a crystalline-inspired volume control for the premium Harman Revel Ultima 3D audio system.
Luxury and comfort are paramount, with heated and ventilated seats as standard on all trim levels, complemented by massage seats up front. Passengers can choose between a semi-electric bench seat or electrically adjustable captain’s seats, both of which offer heating, ventilation and massage functions for ultimate relaxation.
Comfort and convenience are also a priority in the third row, as it folds down electrically and can be optionally equipped with heating. Lincoln has improved the SUV experience with the introduction of the Rejuvenate function, transforming the vehicle into a personal oasis.
Riders can seamlessly transition from commuting to relaxation as their seat reclines to provide warmth and massage, while immersive visual effects and soothing soundscapes create a tranquil atmosphere. From rushing waterfalls to dancing northern lights, the customizable environment caters to individual preferences.
Complementing this tranquil retreat, the BlueCruise semi-autonomous driving system offers the ability to drive hands-free on highways, making the ride even more enjoyable. For those seeking the ultimate in luxury, Lincoln’s Black Label options offer Enlighten and Atmospheric themes that immerse occupants in either the warmth of a sunrise or the serenity of an overcast day.
The Navigator features a powerful 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine that delivers an impressive 440 horsepower and a respectable 510 pound-feet of torque. This power is efficiently sent to all four wheels through a sophisticated ten-speed automatic transmission, providing confident acceleration and smooth performance.
The driving experience is enhanced by an adaptive suspension system with continuously controlled damping that effortlessly adjusts to different road conditions for optimal comfort and handling. To simplify the often difficult task of towing a trailer, the Navigator is equipped with advanced driver assistance features such as ProTrailer Backup Assist and Trailer Hitch Assist, which make coupling and maneuvering with a trailer significantly easier and safer.