Lincoln Navigator vs Cadillac Escalade

Competitive Perception

Cadillac goes to great lengths to boast that its 6.2L V8 engine can propel Escalade 0-60 mph in under six seconds. It also enables Escalade to tow up to 8,200 lbs. and delivers a maximum payload of just 1,460 lbs. 

Lincoln Reality

Clients don't purchase SUVs based on 0-60 mph times. Rather, they are looking for a vehicle that can comfortably transport their family and their gear. The twin-turbo 3.5L GTDI V6 engine in Lincoln Navigator is more than up to the task, delivering 380 horsepower and 460 lb.-ft. of torque for plenty of fuel-efficient power.⁽¹⁾

In addition, Lincoln Navigator delivers best-in-class⁽²⁾ towing of 9,000 lbs.⁽³⁾and a maximum payload of 1,560 lbs.

Competitive Perception

Escalade can comfortably accommodate up to eight passengers. 

Lincoln Reality

Yes, Escalade offers leg room for the first two rows that is comparable to segment competitors; however, only small passengers can be comfortably seated in Escalade's third row. At less than 25 inches, it's significantly less than the nearly 38 inches in the third row of Navigator.

Competitive Perception

The Cadillac User Experience (CUE) has been enhanced for 2016 to make it faster and more intuitive.

Lincoln Reality

Considering how many critics have called CUE's response time sluggish, its operation confusing and the lack of redundant knobs regrettable, the enhancements for 2016 had to be expected. Lincoln SYNC® 3, meanwhile, features faster performance, more conversational voice recognition and an easy-to-use, capacitive touchscreen interface.

Competitive Perception

Escalade owners who require an even larger vehicle may choose Escalade ESV. It's longer than Navigator L.

Lincoln Reality

While Escalade ESV (extended wheelbase) is an inch longer than Navigator L, it still falls short of Navigator L in a number of customer-critical areas, including third-row leg and hip room and cargo capacity.