2023 Lincoln Navigator

Whether you need an SUV with a cavernous amount of cargo space or something that rivals some small NYC apartments in terms of passenger space, the Navigator can do both things.

Private Jet Luxury. While the Navigator is an old-school SUV, it feels like a genuinely modern luxury vehicle. Even lower Navigator trims come equipped with high-end features like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front and second-row seats, power running boards, a heated steering wheel, and tri-zone automatic climate control. These features, and the Navigator’s sheer size, make it feel like a private jet for its passengers.

Step up to the Black Label and the Navigator feels downright opulent. The range-topping trim comes with 30-way power-adjustable front seats with a massaging feature that are more comfortable than some La-Z-Boy recliners. The seats offer an incredible amount of customization to where everyone can find a position that feels just right. The seats remain comfortable on cross-country trips, especially with the massaging feature on hand to work out any numb spots. The Black Label also steps things up with wood trim and special interior color themes.

The major problem with the Navigator is its price. The large luxury SUV definitely isn't cheap. Pricing for the SUV starts at $81,420 (with destination) with the Black Label carrying a price tag of $110,950. The regular Navigator is expensive, but the Black Label is ridiculously so.

No Need For A V8. Unlike nearly all of the Navigator’s competitors, Lincoln chose not to offer an eight-cylinder engine with the SUV. The Navigator is only available with a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, but it’s a stout motor. The V6 produces 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque, which is more than enough to make up for the lack of two cylinders.

On the road, the Navigator delivers brisk acceleration and never feels slow. We think the 10-speed automatic transmission plays a large role in that, as it delivers smooth, well-timed shifts. When properly equipped, the Navigator can tow up to 8,700 pounds.

The Navigator may be available with four-wheel drive and has plenty of different drive modes for various terrain, but it’s much better suited for on-road use. The SUV is a comfortable highway cruiser thanks to its adaptive dampers and independent suspension setup. Together, the pairing results in a smooth ride that irons out any bumps or potholes. Because of its size, the Navigator isn’t the easiest SUV to pilot on tight roads or to park, which makes it feel even more in its element out on the highway or a straight country road.

Slick Tech Features. Every Navigator comes with an eye-catching 13.2-inch touchscreen and a 12-inch digital instrument cluster that have crisp graphics, simple menus, and intuitive controls. With wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, navigation, a Wi-Fi hot spot, a wireless charging pad, and 14 audio speakers, the Navigator comes well-equipped from the get-go. Unless you want an excellent 28-speaker Revel audio system or a dual-screen rear entertainment system, there’s really no need to move up to a higher trim on the infotainment front.

One major reason to upgrade to a higher trim is Lincoln’s available ActiveGlide system. It’s a partially automated driver-assist system that allows for hands-free driving on mapped highways. It’s similar to what you’ll find with Ford’s BlueCruise system and operates in a similar way, too. The system does a great job of keeping the SUV in between marked lines and, as long as you keep your eyes on the road, doesn’t disengage often.

Final Thoughts. The 2023 Lincoln Navigator is an oversized SUV that’s packed with luxury and tech features. It’s enormous, cumbersome to drive, and not exactly efficient, but when it comes to interior space, comfort, luxury, performance, and technology, it’s as well-rounded as large SUVs get. Be sure to measure your garage twice before going through with a purchase.

The Cadillac Escalade is Navigator’s most obvious competitor. It’s similar in size but is available with more powerful V8 engines, a more impressive digital display that’s 38 inches wide, and a bolder exterior design. You’ll also want to check out the BMW X7. It’s not as spacious as the Navigator, but it has athletic handling, a quiet cabin, a refined lineup of powertrains, and high-tech features.

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