Fortune Favors the Bold

Few vehicles are as awe-inspiring as the Lincoln Navigator. With its delicate balance of power and prestige, the perennial heavyweight has been an integral member of Lincoln’s lineup since 1997, leaving competitors in its wake. Lincoln wants to redefine the luxury, full-size SUV segment and the 2016 Navigator possesses the necessary qualities to do just that.

The Navigator returns for 2016 sporting Lincoln's SYNC® 3, a redesigned touchscreen interface that is much easier to see and operate. 

Performance 

Last year, Lincoln wisely retired its larger 5.4-liter V8 for a smaller, more powerful, and more efficient 3.5-liter, twin-turbocharged EcoBoost® V6 engine. This newer engine is good for creating 380 horsepower and 460 pound feet of torque. Properly equipped, the 2016 Navigator hauls an impressive 9,000 pounds.

A six-speed automatic is standard and is aided by Lincoln’s SelectShift®, which allows for manually controlled gear changes when desired. Both four-wheel-drive and rear-wheel-drive configurations are available, with the former offering an available Control Trac Four-Wheel-Drive system built to vastly improve traction on slippery surfaces and increase handling on and off-road, something that is sure to please all Lincoln fans. 

When it comes to performance, the 2016 Navigator is the best Lincoln has ever built, especially when equipped with Lincoln Drive Control option, which adds Lincoln’s Continuously Controlled Damping (CCD) suspension. With CCD system, multiple sensors constantly monitor road conditions (every two milliseconds to be precise) and adjust the suspension accordingly. Drivers can also choose between Normal, Sport, and Comfort modes on the fly. Each Navigator also features precisely tuned electric power-assisted steering, allowing for sharp control through a range of speeds. This is, perhaps, best witnessed at low speeds making the vehicle easier to park.

Design 

The Navigator has never had difficulty turning heads and sparking envy among others on the road. With its MKZ-inspired split wing grille, the 2016 Navigator is better poised to slot alongside its automotive siblings and enjoy the fruits of Lincoln’s latest design DNA. Up front, bi-functional high-intensity discharge adaptive headlamps with light-emitting diode signature accents provide even more elegance and character to the front end, while standard 20-inch wheels, or optional 22-inch wheels, show off the Navigator's impressive outline.

Around the back, jewel-like LED taillamps extend the entire width of the vehicle – yet another design element that aligns the 2016 Navigator to Lincoln’s bold, new design language. Other notable accents include a chrome-tipped exhaust pipe and puddle lamps, adding even more elegance to an already streamlined exterior.

Inside, the Navigator’s interior enhancements are evident and provide unquestionable luxury to both driver and passengers. Standard equipment includes first-and second-row Eagle Ottawa leather upholstery, heated and cooled front-row seats, and heated second-row seats. A supple Wollsdorf leather-wrapped steering wheel with Euro stitching supplement the already palatial cabin, while ambient lighting, push-button start, and the latest SYNC® 3 with MyLincoln Touch™ driver connectivity system is also standard.

For an additional level of luxury, an optional Reserve Package is also available, adding Trevino leather on all three rows of seats, the door panels, and glove box.  Also offered is a Ziricote wood trim, which has typically been used to accent luxury yachts.

Safety

A sleek exterior serves as a shell to what ultimately amounts to a veritable fortress on wheels.

Each 2016 Navigator includes a rearview camera and six airbags to help protect drivers and passenger. The Personal Safety System™ consists of driver and front-passenger dual-stage airbags, front safety belt pretensioners and energy-management retractors, front safety belt usage sensors, a driver’s seat position sensor and a crash severity sensor.

Navigators also include front-passenger seat-mounted side airbags for a solid sense of security. A Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) (now standard for 2016) signals when another vehicle is detected in an adjacent lane behind either rear wheel.

Verdict 

The 2016 Lincoln Navigator starts at $63,090* and is bigger, bolder, and better than ever. It builds on an already impressive resume with added luxury features and unmatched utility. It’s the kind of vehicle that will tirelessly undertake all the hard work and make it look easy - and make you look good - in the process.

For more information, or to schedule a test drive, contact us online or visit 3Birds Template at 505 W. Franklin St., Chapel Hill, NC 27516.

*Base MSRP and base plus package price exclude destination/delivery charge, taxes, title and registration. Optional equipment not included. A, Z and X Plan prices are for qualified customers and exclude document fee, destination/delivery charge taxes, title and registration. Not all vehicles qualify for A, Z or X Plan.

Image Credit: Lincoln Motor Company