In the world of three-row SUVs, there are plenty of worthy contenders to consider. And for those who need the capability to seat eight passengers, there is a particular best-of list that is a must-see. The critics call the 2021 Lincoln Navigator the best there is in this class of SUVs capable of hauling eight adults. And looking at all the Lincoln Navigator brings to the table, it’s easy to see why.

If you’re thinking about buying a family SUV capable of shuttling your large family, you likely won’t be more comfortable in any other model than the Lincoln Navigator.

Rising to the top of this best-of list

U.S. News dove in to explore those SUVs with eight-passenger seating. Looking at comfort, storage, and performance, the team scrutinized over 48 different categories to rank these three-row rides from worst to best. They considered amenities, safety, and tech, as well, meaning this particular roster can be incredibly valuable if you’re in the market to buy.

One of the qualifying criteria for this list is, of course, that valuable third row, offering official seating for eight people. But nearly every other amenity, feature, and list of standard equipment vary for the SUVs in the running.

And while many have differing opinions about what makes one SUV better than another, the official findings suggest the 2021 Lincoln Navigator does eight-passenger seating better than the rest.

Pricing, trims, and package options for the 2021 Lincoln Navigator

There is plenty to love about the Lincoln Navigator, and Edmunds offers the shortlist including, tons of cargo, easy-to-use tech, and beefy power. Choose between the Base, the Reserve, and the Black Label trims, all equipped with the 3.5-liter turbocharged V6 engine. 

There is a standard wheelbase and an extended (L) version, adding another ten inches to the SUV. It also adds cargo capacity and increases the fuel tank from 23 gallons to holding 27. And while the rear-wheel drive is standard, you’ll also have an optional all-wheel-drive configuration.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator offers upscale materials throughout, spoiling anyone who settles into its comfortable seats. There is room for eight, but it’s the most comfortable kind of room, with a spacious and cavernous feeling regardless of the row you choose. The pricing reflects these more luxurious characteristics, with an MSRP range of $76,185 to $101,325.

Where the Lincoln Navigator shines

Where the Lincoln Navigator really shines may just be with its interior. With genuine leather, modern metal accents, and traditional wood trims, there is a feel about this SUV you just won’t experience elsewhere. Car and Driver calls it the “crown jewel in Lincoln’s SUV lineup” and suggests few competitors can compete with its comfort.

The coveted third row is more spacious than most others in this eight-passenger SUV segment. In fact, there is 1.1 inches more legroom than even the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class. The 2021 Lincoln Navigator gives you the option of having 30-way, adjustable and massaging front seats, too, a key differentiator from the pack.

Car and Driver says the Lincoln Navigator’s seats are so customizable that you can even adjust thigh support across different heights. In a way, these seats are designed to fold around each passenger in an almost sculptural way.

If you need to haul eight passengers, check out this latest list from U.S. News. And if you want to transport people in extreme comfort in a vehicle that exudes style and upscale touchpoints, check out the 2021 Lincoln Navigator. It seems out of all the SUVs capable of carrying eight people, not one SUV does it more comfortably than the Navigator.