In its second model year, Lincoln refreshes the Navigator with a more contemporary exterior and new features. The Navigator continues to be a competent, comfortable luxury SUV. If you are in the market for a large, luxury SUV that can carry seven people with comfort, the Navigator is a solid choice.
The biggest change is an upgrade to the engine, which now produces 300 horsepower and 355 pound-feet of torque. The additional 20 pound-feet of twist is spread across the entire operating range, making it easier to tow heavy loads. The new powertrain delivers strong acceleration and can get the vehicle to 60 mph in 9.3 seconds.
Lincoln also made some improvements to the Navigator’s swanky interior. The eye-catching 13.2-inch touchscreen is bigger and has more functionality, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and can update itself over the air with new software. There are USB ports in every row and the 14-speaker Revel stereo system is upgraded to a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D unit in the Luxury package. Other nice touches include power-adjustable pedals and a feature that illuminates only the controls necessary for the function being used.
The second-row seats have proper chairs instead of the kiddy shelves that are found in some competitors. The independent rear suspension lets them recline and offer more legroom than in a GMC Yukon XL or Cadillac Escalade. The Navigator is available in two- or four-wheel drive, and all models have a full-time, four-wheel-drive mode. Two-wheel-drive models use premium fuel, while four-wheel-drive versions require diesel fuel.
