2018 Lincoln Navigator Redefines Large Luxury SUVs

The all-new full-size SUV aims to elevate family travel to first class.

Introduced at the 2017 New York Auto Show, the 2018 Lincoln Navigator focuses on combining modern luxury with advanced technology. The exterior design isn’t a far departure from the Navigator Concept that debuted at last year’s New York Auto Show, but as expected, the wild doors didn’t make it to production. But what is surprising is the twin-turbo V6 engine under the hood that is expected to produce 450 horsepower while paired to a 10-speed automatic transmission. And compared to its predecessor, the new Navigator weighs nearly 200 pounds less, thanks to high-strength aluminum used on its body.

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Lincoln says additional weight savings were reinvested in features such as towing capability and quietness, like laminated front and side glass that contributes to the quietest Navigator cabin ever. The SUV also brings a new Lincoln technology called speed-dependent adaptive lighting, which provides a wider spread of light at lower speeds for increase visibility and as the vehicle accelerates, the beam of light narrows to help eliminate the glare off signs or other distractions.

2017 New York Auto Show Coverage

But focus is really placed on the spacious, three-row interior that boasts an advanced cargo management system. There’s an adjustable shelf behind the rear seats that can be customized to suit storage needs and even if the Navigator is parked on an incline, the feature ensures groceries won’t roll out when the liftgate is opened. At night, interior ambient lights sequentially illuminate each of the SUV’s three rows and during the day, a panoramic roof fills the cabin with natural light.

More importantly, especially with the capability of carrying so many passengers, the Navigator is packed with amenities to stay connected. There’s six USB ports inside, along with four 12-volt power outlets and a 110-volt plug. Available as an option is a wireless phone charger for the first-row center console.

Front driver and passenger get to enjoy Perfect Position Seats, which offer massage, heating and cooling functionality, with 30-way adjustability. Standard features include SYNC 3 with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, while second-row passengers have their own audio and climate controls. Third-row seats feature power recline capability.

Available options and packages include a rear-seat entertainment system with 10-inch adjustable screens mounted on the rear of the front seats, a Head-Up Display, Trailer Backup Assist, 360-degree camera and enhanced park assist, as well as adaptive cruise control.

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