Lincoln added an extra dash of flash to their big, brash Navigator SUV for 2015. The biggest news is under the hood, where a 380-hp, 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 replaced the thirsty, lethargic V8. Despite losing two cylinders, the new powerplant offers effortless power for quick acceleration and impressive towing ability. But it's "Eco" in name only; we recorded just 15 mpg overall. That is just a 2 mpg improvement over the last V8 Navigator we tested and actually 1 mpg less than the V8-powered Chevrolet Suburban and Tahoe.
Our $68,895 Navigator had a comfortable ride, but it showed its age and truck-based roots with clumsy handling. Other changes include updated front-end styling with a new grille and HID lighting.
One benefit of its old-school styling is large windows that help with visibility and lend an airy feel. While upgraded, the interior still can't match the luxurious ambiance of the Cadillac Escalade due to excessive wind noise and vast expanses of cheap-looking plastic. 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. Towing capacity is generous.
One major gripe: The Navigator still lacks advanced crash-avoidance systems such as forward-collision warning. In this upscale class, such systems should be readily available, if not standard equipment.