2026 Lincoln vs. Genesis Comparison

At over a century old, Lincoln is one of the most established automotive companies in the world, and part of an even smaller list of established luxury automotive brands. Genesis, on the other hand, is one of the newest luxury automotive brands on the market. In fact, the first Genesis model was introduced into the Hyundai lineup in 2007 before launching as its own brand entirely in November of 2015. How does one of the newest brands in the luxury segment compare with one of the industry’s longest reigning luxury nameplates? Joe Rizza Lincoln has put together this guide to help you decide for yourself.

Lincoln Aviator VS Genesis GV80

For this head-to-head vehicle comparison, we’ve selected the midsize SUV options from both Lincoln and Genesis. Right out of the gate, choosing the Lincoln Aviator will net you some significant savings over the equivalent Genesis GV80. For fairness, we’ve chosen entry level models of both vehicles equipped with AWD. When it comes to performance, the clear choice is the Aviator thanks to its larger 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 that’s more powerful than the smaller 4-cylinder fitted to the GV80. It also boasts a far more advanced 10-speed automatic transmission, contributing to its superior highway MPG fuel economy rating and more rewarding experience behind the wheel.

You won’t be able to miss the bold 20-inch alloy wheels that are included as standard on the Lincoln Aviator along with the convenience of its capless fueling system. If comfort and space are priorities, the clear favorite is the much larger Aviator. It includes spacious three-row seating for up to 6 or 7 depending on configuration. Genesis GV80 shoppers won’t be able to carry more than 5 passengers unless they shell out thousands extra for the option. The Lincoln also offers superior first and second row legroom. Other premium amenities of the Aviator include a standard heated steering wheel and double the amount of the USB charging ports you’ll receive inside the Genesis GV80.

Lincoln Black Label

A lot of manufacturers make vehicles with comfortable seats and decent stereo systems, but Black Label represents a whole different level of luxury. Available on the Nautilus, the Aviator, and the Navigator, Black Label is both a luxury trim level and an experience. Black Label vehicles come with perks you don’t get with other trims in the Lincoln lineup, nor from the competition. These include things like remote new vehicle delivery, 4 years of included Premium Maintenance, complimentary car washes at Black Label dealerships, and access to exclusive Lincoln Access Rewards.

Black Label vehicles are built using different materials than you’ll find elsewhere, and these premium materials are grouped according to themes. For example, the Flight theme (available on the Aviator) uses soft leather in Luggage Tan, along with Ebony Jet trim pieces and an engine turn appliqué for the dash. This all evokes the glamor of the golden age of flight. But it’s not the only option, with Lincoln also offering themes like Chalet, Redwood, Destination, Atmospheric, Invitation, and Moonbeam. Lincoln found that simply offering a handful of upholstery color options just wasn’t enough of a luxury experience, and these themes convey a much more all-encompassing feeling.

Lincoln Navigator

You might be wondering why we aren’t comparing the Lincoln Navigator to a comparable Genesis model here, as we did with the Aviator. The answer to that is simple: there is no comparable Genesis model. For a vehicle like the Navigator, you need a Navigator. In fact, Genesis doesn’t have an equivalent body-on-frame, full-size SUV. You can configure the Navigator to seat either 7 or 8 and all of those seats offer one of the most sought-after of all luxury features - room to stretch out. The 2nd row seats in the Navigator have more legroom than the front seats in the largest Genesis SUV while the front seats in the Navigator have more space than any seat in any Genesis. The Navigator L has more cargo space behind its third row of seats than the GV80 has behind its second row.

With 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque, the Navigator is more powerful than any Genesis. Better still, the maximum towing capacity of 8,700 pounds beats any Genesis by more than 2,000 pounds. Opt for the Black Label and you get features like heated and ventilated first- and second-row seats, a head-up display, and a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D audio system all as standard equipment. Even the 3rd-row seats have a power recline feature. You simply can’t get a vehicle like this from another manufacturer and Genesis doesn’t even come close.