Lincoln Has No Plans For A Cadillac Escalade-V Rival

In terms of full-size luxury SUV sales, the Cadillac Escalade rules the roost. In the first quarter of 2022, GM's luxury brand shifted 10,505 examples of the big bruiser - an impressive feat for a vehicle starting from $76,295. With the advent of the high-performance V model, it's only set to grow in popularity. While Mercedes-Benz and BMW can offer up equally dynamic alternatives, it seems Lincoln won't be joining the high-performance SUV train.

Speaking to Ford Authority, Lincoln's Global Product Director, John Jraiche said a hotted-up Navigator isn't in the pipeline. "We understand where the competition is, we're not looking to emulate anyone. We took a strategy years ago to be separate and distinct with our Lincoln lineup and we're looking to double down and deliver that strategy in a new way as we transition into EVs."

Lincoln's recently revealed Star Concept is a sign of what direction the company is taking. While it still retains the brand's signature styling cues, it brings with it a fresh, modern approach that is lacking in the company's current lineup. It's unlikely that the Star Concept will make it into production, but the design touches will be applied to future electric Lincoln models.

A more powerful and dynamic Lincoln Navigator would, admittedly, be out of character for the brand. After all, in the company's 105-year history, there has never been a true performance-oriented Lincoln. Still, the large SUV offers perfectly adequate levels of performance in its current state. The twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 has 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque on tap. Not that it matters to most Lincoln customers, but the Navigator can hit 60 mph in less than six seconds.

Those figures are more than enough for most, but those with an appetite for more power will steer clear of the sumptuous Navigator and head off to Cadillac or the German automakers. General Motors is yet to announce any details regarding the Escalade-V's technical details, but we're guessing it will utilize the supercharged 6.2-liter LT4 V8, as seen in the CT5-V Blackwing.

Under the hood of Cadillac's road-going missile, it produces an astonishing 668 and 659 lb-ft. While that's more than enough to lug the Escalade about, there's a possibility that the rip-snorting Escalade-V will get a slight detune. We admire Lincoln's commitment to its brand values and appreciate the Navigator for what it is: a plush, refined SUV that puts ride quality and occupant comfort at the front of its mind. These attributes will translate very well into the brand's electric future.