Lincoln Navigator

A number of cosmetic changes make the redesigned 2025 navigator look a bit more modern, but under the skin, it's largely the same, with a powerful twin-turbo V6 engine, 10-speed automatic transmission and a roomy interior. Four-wheel drive is now standard. As before, both short- and long-wheelbase models are available. Improvements can mostly be seen inside, where a customizable 48-inch interactive display panel arcs across most of the dash. The digital display does duty as an instrument panel while underway, and when the vehicle is stopped, can be used for gaming and as a soothing background for the massaging seats. A smaller 11.1-inch screen below contains the climate menu and vehicle apps. The rear tailgate features a new split design, with a short lower tailgate and an upper hatch Lincoln says makes it easier to load and unload groceries and the like without spilling them onto the ground. Standard BlueCruise hands-free highway driving is another plus.

Redesigned for 2018, the Navigator ups the ante over its Ford Expedition sibling, with more luxury and showmanship. The cabin is quiet, elegant-looking, and full of high-tech features. There is a bit of rocking feeling at low speeds, but the ride improves and is more comfortable on the highway. Handling, however, is cumbersome, even for a large SUV. The twin-turbo V6 generates 411 hp on regular fuel, and is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. This combination easily moves the Navigator down the road and is capable of towing 8,300 pounds. The front cabin is roomy, but the standard seats are uncomfortable, and the push-button gear selector is fussy to use. Rear passengers are pampered with heated seats, a variety of connectivity features, and a hospitable third-row seat. Rear-wheel drive is standard, with four-wheel drive optional. 2020 brought lots of standard safety equipment. A refresh for 2022 adds Lincoln's Activeglide advanced active driver assistance system as well as an updated 13.2-inch center display running Ford's latest Sync 4 infotainment system.

A freshening in the 2015 Navigator brought a turbocharged six-cylinder in place of the V8. However, fuel economy increased by only two mpg. Unfortunately, the update didn't include advanced crash-avoidance systems such as forward-collision warning. In this upscale class, such equipment should be readily available, if not a standard feature. The top-shelf Reserve adds 22-inch wheels, Lincoln Drive Control adjustable suspension, and upgraded interior leather and wood. The Navigator's cabin is spacious with room for eight and a third row that's usable even for adults. A long-wheelbase version adds even more room.

The Navigator is similar to the Ford Expedition. The big Lincoln came swathed in luxury items, such as leather and wood interior trim. It also had second-row seating that featured two individual seats with a large console between them. The Navigator's selectable four-wheel-drive system can be left permanently engaged. It handled soundly in our tests but drank a lot of fuel. Climbing in and out takes agility, and parking and maneuvering around town can be a challenge.