Road Test: 2018 Lincoln Navigator
Specifications:
Price: $103,300 (as tested)
Engine: 3.5L twin-turbocharged DOHC 24-valve V6
Trans: 10-speed auto
Power: 450 hp@ 5,000 rpm
Torque: 510 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm
Curb Weight: 6,330 lbs./ 2,871 kg
Fuel Consumption: (L/100km – City/Hwy) 14.9/11.3
New for 2018: The Lincoln Navigator has been completely redesigned for 2018 and now features a fresh, modernized look that would definitely be described as luxurious. Inside is an incredibly designed interior that is nothing like I’ve ever seen before. The amount of thought and detail that went in to both the exterior and interior design shines through and gives you a sense of luxury that isn’t easy to find elsewhere. Also new, among other things, is a revised twin-turbocharged 3.5L V6 that sees a bump in power and is now paired to a new 10-speed automatic transmission.
Segment Competitors: Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class, Chevrolet Suburban, Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Tahoe, Ford Expedition, GMC Yukon, Nissan Armada, Infiniti QX80, Toyota Sequoia
The Skinny: The Lincoln Navigator is the largest and most powerful vehicle Lincoln has ever made and offers drivers and passengers what may be best described as a futuristic and luxurious experience. One look at the Navigator from the outside and it’s clear that they have put a ton detail into the design which has paid off immensely. The front end features an aggressive look highlighted by many LED lighting accents (including a light up Lincoln badge) that shines through during the night. Inside of the Navigator is something like I’ve never seen before with high quality materials used throughout the futuristic design. Six adults (possibly even 7) can sit comfortably in the Navigator with each seating position providing a truly luxurious experience and on top of all of that, despite the sheer size of the SUV it is much easier to maneuver than you would think. Ample power is found through the twin-turbo V6 and the overall ride is incredibly smooth.
Pros: If you’re writing Pros and Cons for any vehicle that includes a massage option in the front seats, you almost have to include that as your Pro.
Cons: Fuel economy is probably not something you’d say is a strong point for the Navigator.
The Verdict: You can probably safely assume that for someone looking to purchase a vehicle of this nature, money likely isn’t a huge determining factor. Once you get past the six-figure price point, which is on par with its chief rivals, the new Navigator undoubtedly stands out against its competition with a new contemporary design inside and out, great on-road driving manners, and all the safety, luxury and technology figures you could ever want. Although the Lincoln name may not carry the same luster that it once did, if they can follow what they did hear with the Navigator for other vehicles, that will soon change.
