The Lincoln Navigator: Plush and Quiet at a Nicer Price

If you need an SUV that will advertise that you like to ride in style and you don't mind paying for it, you can at least save a bit of money by purchasing the Lincoln Navigator. It still has tons of luxury features, like power front seats with heating and cooling systems, a power-folding third row and a 14-speaker audio system. And it costs about $8,000 less than its chief rival the Cadillac Escalade.

So the good things about the Navigator are: it has really comfortable and roomy seating, the ride is incredibly quiet, and it handles quite well for such a large vehicle. It also has bold (maybe even over-the-top) styling, which buyers may have differing opinions about. But at least the Navigator cannot be accused of being bland.

One major drawback is the engine is not as powerful as many rivals. For some, the Navigator has all the right looks, but cannot compete with some in terms of raw performance. For instance, the Escalade has over 100 more horses and only averages 1 less mpg than the Navigator. Another issue is just the lack of certain standard features, like AWD and a moonroof, though both are options.

Comments

[CharlesWayne]

I think Mercury needs to put a stronger engine in the Navigator as a standard feature. The Escalade has a standard 6.0L V8 which pumps out a ton of power, even over the 5.3L that comes in other GM large SUVs like the Tahoe. Even that motor is more powerful than the Navigator's standard powerplant. Luxury and style also require power and performance.

[ckroll98]

Such a sweet looking ride. A lot less expensive than the GM counterpart. So what if it gives up 100 horses, it looks a ton better. It also has the power 3rd row seat that GM doesn't offer yet.

[Mazerman]

There's no doubt that if you're looking for a luxurious interior, the Navigator will be tough to beat. The quiet ride gives added enjoyment to the movie theatre type audio sound system.

[Sue B.]

It's come a long way since its 1999 debut with the poor acceleration and big vehicle type handling, and it still doesn't have the Escalade's power, but depending on your preferences, both the Luxury and Ultimate current models have their worth in amenities alone. Whether it's just the comfortable three row, adult capacity seating of the Luxury, or the Ultimate's easy power features for folding the third row, temperature controlled seats, it's worth the money.

[Emma]

I wish they would redesign the back of the car. The rest of the Navigator looks like pure luxury but the huge tail lights look strange. The third-row seating for seven with captain's chairs in the second row is an excellent option.

[Ginny]

I love the navigator. It comes with great options like multizone climate control, power rear liftgate, power-folding third-row seats and heated/cooled front seats.

[remit]

Without doubt, the Navigator is truly luxurious. However, it's front-end design is a bit too gaudy. For a few thousand dollars more, the 2008 Infiniti QX56 is a better option. It's more powerful, more elegantly/conservatively designed, and it's better handling.

[mleighto]

If you're in the market for a luxury SUV, the Navigator has a unique curb appeal that rivals its counterparts. With the $8k price difference, I will take the hundred less horses. A home run for Lincoln.

[automan]

The "Navi" has new Bold Looks and The ability to seat adults comfortably in all three rows of seats . Can'r say that for the Escalade.

Check out the V8's in the Infiniti QX56 and Mercedes-Benz GL450. Might make you move away from the "Navi"

Still up in the Air on that one!

[taurusfan]

I agree with ckroll. This rig is plenty powerful enough. We've just gotten power addicted in the US. Bottom Line, the top speed is still 55 mpg.

[val]

I like the Navigator. It's not afraid to be what it is. If you want a stylish SUV...get one. This definitely qualifies. Nothing wrong with luxury if you're willing to pay for it, and this is competitively-priced..

[fixit]

I think the engine is strong enough for most folks. With luxury models, you aren't going to hit the backroads for some hard-core driving. If it looks great, is very comfortable and also fun to drive, it's a winner.

[TimSheep]

Are you really gonna care about saving a little bit of money if your going to buy a SUV in this bracket? I don't think so.

[ALnT]

The Navigator is a strong competitor. But, and there is always a but, they really need to give the consumer the whole package. Luxury is nice but when you put you foot to the floor and you don't get instant gratification it's disheartening.