Flash Drive

2015 Lincoln Navigator

September 14, 2015 - Behind The Wheel - Comments: 

Model Tested: 2015 Lincoln Navigator 4×4

The Lincoln Navigator is a handsome, full-size SUV that can be equipped with optional 22-inch alloy wheels.
The Lincoln Navigator is a handsome, full-size SUV that can be equipped with 22-inch alloy wheels.

Engine: 3.5-liter 6-cylinder gas, 380 horsepower, 460 lb-ft torque

Transmission: 6-speed automatic transmission, four-wheel-drive

EPA Ratings: 15/City—20/Highway—17/Combined

Base Price: $65,955

As Tested: $73,395

Performance:

Excellent twin turbo V-6 engine

Outstanding torque: 460 lb-ft

Smooth performance

Very comfortable highway ride

The 3.5-L EcoBoost V-6 produces an impression 460 lb-ft of torque.
The 3.5-L EcoBoost V-6 produces an impression 460 lb-ft of torque.

Trendy 22-inch wheels

Hill descent feature

Navigator not likely to see many dirt roads

Smooth shifting transmission

We averaged 20.1 mpg

Land departure warning

Dash buttons for 4×2, 4×4 auto, and 4×4

Comfort:

Very nice front seats

Soft headrests

Stretch-out front legroom

High, commanding driving position

Third row seating is roomy and comfortable enough for adults.
Third row seating is roomy and comfortable enough for adults.

Power lumbar support

Three temp heated and cooled front seats

Heated second row Captains chairs

Thick leather and wood steering wheel

High quality leather seating surfaces

Power tilt/telescopic steering column

OK second row legroom

Flat floor

Second row HVAC controls

Adult size third row seating

Easy third row access between Capt. chairs

Utility:

Power liftgate

Power folding third row seats provide a great deal of cargo capacity and a flat floor.
Power folding third row seats provide a great deal of cargo capacity and a flat floor.

Large, flat cargo floor

No lift over

Power folding split third row seats

Ample grocery/cargo room behind third row

Medium size navigation screen

Large, two-part front door bins

Big second row door bins

Double sun visors

Medium size, but very deep console bin

Very small, non-locking glovebox

Four oversized grab handles

Power folding side mirrors

9,000 lb towing capacity

Wow Factors:

Spacious seating

A power lift gate clears tall adults. Styling is conservative and timeless.
A power lift gate clears tall adults. Styling is conservative and timeless.

Adults can fit in third row

Room for seven adults

Very powerful, smooth EcoBoost V-6

Handsome, conservative styling, bold grille

22-inch alloy wheels

Whines:

Sticker shock even though not totally loaded

Not as high tech as many competitors

Power running boards: useful, but also annoying

Digital speedo partly hidden by steering wheel

Bottom Line:

The 2015 Lincoln Navigator 4×4 is a handsome, full-size luxury SUV that excels at passenger room/comfort and a pleasant highway ride. The excellent EcoBoost V-6 performs like a V-8 and offers very good fuel economy.