DecodedCarsBMW X7 vs Lincoln Navigator
2026 BMW X7 vs 2026 Lincoln Navigator — two standard SUVs compared on efficiency, size, safety and reliability.
The short version
The BMW X7 is more fuel-efficient: 23 vs 17 MPG combined in its best version.
That works out to about $400 a year less in fuel for the BMW X7 (EPA estimate, 15,000 miles).
The Lincoln Navigator is the bigger car, about 6 inches longer.
Across all model years since 2005, the BMW X7 has had fewer recall campaigns (33 vs 50).
The two cars
The 2026 BMW X7 is a standard SUV offered with 2 engines (3.0L 6-cyl turbo and 4.4L 8-cyl turbo), including a hybrid version and all-wheel drive. It measures about 204 inches long and 79 inches wide on a 122-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 6,089 lb (M60i 4dr SUV).
The 2026 Lincoln Navigator is a standard SUV offered with a 3.5L 6-cyl turbo engine and part-time 4-wheel drive. It measures about 210 inches long and 80 inches wide on a 122-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 5,928 lb (4dr SUV).
Buying used? The 2022 X7 and the 2016 Navigator have the fewest problems in our data; avoid the 2020 X7 and the 2018 Navigator.
Basics
Efficiency
Performance & space
Safety & reliability
Interest
Green = clearly better. Prices are not included. How we calculate this →
Which one should you choose?
Choose the BMW X7 if…
- You want lower fuel bills (23 vs 17 MPG)
- You want something easier to park (6 in shorter)
- You want a hybrid or electric option
- You put reliability history first (33 vs 50 recalls since 2005)
Choose the Lincoln Navigator if…
- You want more room (6 in longer)
Pros & cons of each
2026 BMW X7
- Excellent fuel economyUp to 23 MPG combined — 15% better than the average 2026 standard SUV (20 MPG).
- Hybrid version availableOffered as a hybrid as well as gas.
- Premium fuel requiredEvery gasoline version is rated for premium, which raises running costs.
2026 Lincoln Navigator
- Below-average fuel economyBest version gets 17 MPG combined, 15% below the 2026 standard SUV average of 20 MPG.
Full 2026 BMW X7 specs →Full 2026 Lincoln Navigator specs →Compare fuel costs for your driving →Compare size & garage fit →