#9

in Luxury Large SUVs

Based on analysis of 55 Navigator reviews and test drives.

MSRP: $54,400 - $59,465
Invoice: $50,125 - $54,683
MPG: 14 City / 20 Hwy
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U.S.News Scores

Overall:7.7
Performance:7.5
Exterior:7.3
Interior:8.3
Safety:9.9
Reliability:7.0
Pros and Cons
  • Adult-friendly third row
  • Lots of safety features
  • Underpowered compared to competitors

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Lincoln Navigator - What the Auto Press Says

The 2010 Lincoln Navigator ranks 9 out of 11 Luxury Large SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 55 published reviews and test drives of the Lincoln Navigator, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

With a third row that's actually comfortable, the Lincoln Navigator is a plush place for all passengers.  Not only does the Navigator offer adult-sized third-row accommodations but it also has good driving dynamics and head-turning style.

Despite the praise for its third row, an area where most SUVs get knocked, the Navigator loses some points for its engine, which some reviewers say is underpowered.   Still, several reviewers call the Navigator a decent alternative to the Cadillac Escalade, offering a more useable third row seat and an almost equal amount of bling. However, the Cadillac has better fuel economy, a more powerful engine and is even available as a hybrid. But if the Caddy just isn't your style, most reviewers say you'll be happy with Navigator.

If you just want a comfortable large SUV and can do without the bling, check out the Ford Expedition, the Navigator's less ostentatious cousin.  It is just as capable and comfortable, but offers more casual surroundings and a lower price. Opt for the Expedition, and you're looking at a savings of about $19,000.  

The Navigator is available in a base trim and a long-wheelbase L trim, and comes in either two- or four-wheel drive. The Navigator was last redesigned in 2006. For 2010, changes to the Navigator are few.  The new features include standard trailer sway control, power running boards, and Ford's MyKey system.  The MyKey system allows parents to limit the vehicle's speed and the stereo's volume level to encourage safe driving in teens.

  • "Lincoln's version of the Ford Expedition is distinguished by its massive chrome grille and more-luxury-laden interior. It rides on an independent rear suspension for improved dynamics, but it's no match for refined unibody competitors such as the Mercedes GL and Audi Q7." -- Car and Driver
  • "I ultimately prefer GM's Tahoe/Yukon/Escalade platform for luxury body-on-frame SUVs, but the Navigator has Sync and seats that fold flat to create a huge, easy to use loading area." -- Automobile Magazine
  • "Navigator's real rival is the Ford Expedition upon which it's based. Except for nameplate status, Expedition delivers everything this Lincoln does, all at a lower price." -- Consumer Guide
  • "Although down on power, the . . . Lincoln Navigator otherwise has the in-your-face style, plush ride and coddling interior needed to compete with its chief rival, the pricier Cadillac Escalade." -- Edmunds
  • "If you're looking for a big, roomy, highly capable hauler that's as quiet, comfortable and civilized as most luxury sedans, you have two logical choices. . . .Lincoln Navigator competes well with its Cadillac counterpart in most ways and beats it in some." -- Kelley Blue Book

 

Navigator Performance - 7.5 (Good)

Compared to others in the class, the Navigator lacks power.  Still, it offers a very comfortable ride. Automobile Magazine says, "Driving a Navigator feels like piloting your den down the highway. It's satisfyingly quiet, smooth riding, and a pleasant break from the rough and tumble world. " Read More

Navigator Exterior - 7.3 (Good)

The Navigator has an imposing and highly-chromed exterior that most reviewers like. Still, Edmunds says the "chrome-tastic exterior might be too much for some." Read More

Navigator Interior - 8.3 (Very Good)

Reviewers praise the 2010 Navigator for having a spacious and comfortable interior, superior cargo room and a long list of modern standard features. The Navigator wins extra praise for its SYNC infotainment system and its adult-friendly third-row seat -- a rarity in this class. Read More

Navigator Safety - 9.9 (Excellent)

The Lincoln Navigator's competitive combination of standard accident avoidance and crash protection features makes it a strong contender in its class. In fact, the federal government awards it a top score of five stars for frontal crash protection as well as four out of five stars for rollover rating in four-wheel drive trims. Read More

Navigator Reliability - 7.0 (Good)

The 2010 Lincoln Navigator reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The Navigator comes with a four-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. Read More

Review Last Updated: 10/28/09