2025 Lincoln Navigator

The Lincoln Navigator made its debut in 1997 for the 1998 model year, becoming Lincoln's first full-size SUV and a pioneer in the luxury SUV segment. It was last fully redesigned in 2018, seeing incremental updates until a major refresh for 2025, which marks the start of its fifth generation. New for 2025 are dramatic styling changes, a class-exclusive split liftgate, and a 48-inch panoramic display that spans the dashboard. The Navigator seats seven passengers in standard configuration, with an optional eight-passenger setup available on the Reserve trim. It comes in two bodystyles: the standard-length Navigator and the extended-length Navigator L. Key competitors include the BMW X7, Cadillac Escalade, Jeep Grand Wagoneer, Lexus TX, Rivian Ri1S, and Mercedes-Benz GLS.

The 2025 Navigator is offered in two trims-Reserve and Black Label-each available in standard or long-wheelbase versions. All models are powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 producing 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive. Towing capacity reaches up to 8,700 pounds when equipped with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package, though models with 24-inch wheels are slightly reduced to 8,400-8,500 pounds. The Black Label trim adds exclusive interior themes, massaging seats, and upgraded materials, while the Reserve offers a Jet Appearance Package for a sportier look.

Pricing starts at $99,995 for the Reserve and climbs to $116,495 for the Black Label, with long-wheelbase versions adding around $3,000 to each. Standard safety features include Lincoln Co-Pilot360 2.0, which bundles adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking. Available options include second-row captain's chairs with massage, a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D audio system, digital scent cartridges, and the Lincoln Rejuvenate "spa on wheels" experience. Packages like the Jet Appearance and Black Label Special Edition further customize the SUV's look and feel.

The 2025 Lincoln Navigator's twin-turbocharged 3.5L EcoBoost V6 delivers robust performance. When pressed, the Navigator accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.1 seconds-quicker than many rivals in its class. Highway acceleration is confident and smooth, with strong passing power in the 45-65 mph range. The 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission complements the engine well, offering refined gear changes and a wide ratio spread that balances power and efficiency. Multiple drive modes-Normal, Excite, Conserve, Slippery, and Deep Conditions-allow drivers to tailor the SUV's behavior to road conditions and driving preferences. One annoyance is a somewhat intrusive stop-start feature. Designed to save fuel by shutting down the engine at stoplights, there's a noticeable clunk each time the engine restarts. While not a big deal in a non-luxury vehicle, you would expect something a bit more refined in a luxury vehicle like the Navigator.

Towing is a standout strength for the Navigator, especially when equipped with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package, which unlocks a maximum towing capacity of 8,700 pounds. This package includes a trailer brake controller, a two-speed transfer case with Neutral Tow, and a larger 26mm radiator for improved cooling. Even with larger 24-inch wheels, towing remains impressive at 8,400-8,500 pounds depending on wheelbase. The Navigator's full-time four-wheel drive system enhances traction and stability, while Tow/Haul mode optimizes gear selection and engine braking for safer descents. Its body-on-frame construction and adaptive suspension help maintain composure under load, making it a top-tier choice for luxury SUV buyers who need serious hauling capability.

According to EPA estimates, fuel economy is rated at 15 MPG city, 22 MPG highway, and 17 MPG combined for both standard and long-wheelbase models. The standard Navigator features a 23.6-gallon fuel tank, while the extended-length Navigator L increases capacity to 27.8 gallons, giving it a highway range of approximately 523 miles compared to 519 miles for the standard model. Lincoln recommends premium unleaded fuel (91 octane) for optimal performance, though regular gasoline is acceptable.

In real-world driving, many owners report slightly lower fuel economy than EPA ratings, especially in urban settings. Around town, the Navigator tends to average 13-14 MPG, depending on traffic and driving style. On the highway, it performs closer to its rated 22 MPG, with some drivers seeing 20-21 MPG at steady cruising speeds. The 10-speed automatic transmission helps optimize fuel use, but the Navigator's size and weight-nearly 6,000 pounds-make it inherently thirsty. Compared to rivals like the Cadillac Escalade and Jeep Grand Wagoneer, the Navigator's fuel economy is competitive but not class-leading despite its innovative turbocharged V6 engine.

The 2025 Lincoln Navigator delivers a ride that's generally smooth and composed, but with some notable distinctions between the Reserve and Black Label trims. Both use a fully independent suspension setup with semi-active coil-over dampers, but the Black Label's larger 24-inch wheels (versus 22-inch on Reserve) contribute to a firmer ride and more pronounced vertical motions over uneven pavement. The absence of air springs-offered by rivals like the Escalade and Grand Wagoneer-means the Navigator can feel slightly unsettled on rough surfaces, especially when loaded or cornering aggressively. The Reserve trim, with its smaller wheels and lighter curb weight, tends to absorb road imperfections more gracefully, making it the better choice for comfort-focused buyers. Though Lincoln's adaptive dampers do their best to smooth things out, but they can be overmatched by sharp impacts or washboard textures. Both trims suffer from a fair amount of head toss, certainly something that could be quelled with an air suspension.

Steering in the Navigator is handled by an electric power-assisted rack-and-pinion system with a fixed ratio, offering light and predictable feedback. It's tuned for ease rather than precision, which suits the Navigator's luxury-first mission. The squared-off "squircle" steering wheel adds a unique touch, and body roll is well-managed thanks to the wide track and low center of gravity. Braking performance is surprisingly strong for a vehicle of this size: the Black Label model stops from 60 mph in just 119 feet, a full vehicle-length shorter than its predecessor. Brake feel is progressive and confidence-inspiring, even under load.

Interior noise levels are impressively low, thanks to active noise cancellation, laminated glass, and extensive sound-deadening materials. At 55 mph, the Navigator registers around 56.5 dB, which is quieter than the Jeep Grand Wagoneer (57.5 dB) and Cadillac Escalade (55.8 dB), but slightly louder than the BMW X7 (49.2 dB) and Mercedes GLS (52.6 dB). The Black Label trim adds a faux engine soundtrack piped through the speakers, which some find satisfying, though others may prefer the Reserve's more subdued ambiance. Overall, the Navigator's cabin remains serene and well-insulated, making it a strong contender for long-distance luxury travel-especially if you opt for the Reserve's softer ride and quieter demeanor.

The 2025 Lincoln Navigator's interior has undergone a comprehensive redesign that blends high-tech innovation with elevated craftsmanship. The most striking change is the new 48-inch panoramic display that spans the dashboard, integrating driver information, infotainment, and ambient visuals into a single, immersive interface. This is paired with an 11.1-inch touchscreen for climate and media controls, and a new "squircle" steering wheel with touch-sensitive pads that light up contextually. Lincoln's new Digital Experience supports wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Google Built-in voice control, while a new "Pano Mode" allows video and gaming apps to play on either side of the panoramic screen when parked.

Material quality has also taken a leap forward. The cabin features genuine wood inlays, crystal-inspired volume knobs, and laser-etched birch or ash accents depending on trim. The Black Label trims introduce two new interior themes-Enlighten and Atmospheric-each with bespoke leather colors, sueded cloth headliners, and copper or espresso detailing. Ambient lighting is now more customizable, and the Lincoln Rejuvenate system transforms the SUV into a spa-like retreat with scent cartridges, massage sequences, and calming visuals like waterfalls or auroras.

As you might expect, the 2025 Lincoln Navigator sets a high bar for seat comfort across all three rows, blending luxury materials with thoughtful ergonomics. Up front, the "Perfect Position" seats offer up to 30-way adjustability for the driver and 28-way for the passenger, including independent thigh supports, massage, heating, and ventilation. These seats are deeply contoured and wrapped in premium leather, creating a first-class experience that rivals flagship sedans.

In the second row, buyers can choose between a bench seat or captain's chairs. The bench seat, available only on the Reserve trim, allows for eight-passenger capacity and includes heated outboard positions with power-folding and reclining functions. The captain's chairs, standard on most configurations, offer individual armrests, optional massage and ventilation, and easier access to the third row via a central pass-through. The Power Tailored Seats on Black Label trims add powered pitch and slide functionality, making third-row access nearly effortless with the push of a button.

Passenger room is generous throughout: the first row offers up to 43.5 inches of legroom, the second row 40.9 inches, and the third row an impressive 36.1 inches, which is adult-friendly and class-leading. Getting in and out is aided by power-deployable running boards, wide door openings, and a relatively low step-in height. Access to the third row is particularly smooth with the captain's chairs, thanks to the powered slide feature and flat floor design. Even with the bench seat, the Navigator's wide rear doors and fold-flat second-row seatbacks make entry manageable for most adults.

Though daunting at first blush, the Navigator's interior controls are designed to be intuitive, elegant, and deeply integrated into the cabin's luxury experience. At the heart of the interface is a sweeping 48-inch panoramic display, which spans nearly the entire dashboard and consolidates navigation, vehicle settings, media, and ambient visuals into one seamless unit. Complementing this is an 11.1-inch touchscreen for climate and infotainment controls, along with touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel that light up contextually depending on the function in use. Common driving tasks-like adjusting mirrors, activating drive modes, or managing climate settings-are straightforward and responsive, with voice control via Google Assistant and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto adding further convenience. The system also supports over-the-air updates and includes a "Quick Tips" app to help drivers learn features on the fly.

In the Black Label trim, the Navigator elevates the experience with exclusive features that go beyond functionality into sensory indulgence. Highlights include the Lincoln Rejuvenate mode, which transforms the cabin into a spa-like retreat with seat massage, ambient lighting, calming visuals, and aromatherapy via the Lincoln Digital Scent system. The 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D audio system delivers concert-hall acoustics, while second-row passengers get their own 5.8-inch touchscreen for multimedia control. The Black Label also includes Power Tailored Seats in the second row, 30-way adjustable front seats, and themed interiors like Atmospheric, Enlighten, and Invitation, each with bespoke materials and lighting accents. These features are not just luxurious-they're thoughtfully executed, enhancing usability without overwhelming the driver.

Overall, the Navigator's interior controls strike a strong balance between high-tech sophistication and user-friendly design. While the sheer number of features might seem overwhelming at first glance, Lincoln's layout and interface logic make it easy to adapt. The Black Label trim, in particular, turns everyday driving into a curated experience, and the controls support that mission beautifully. It's a well-executed system that feels both futuristic and familiar. 

Cargo space has increased slightly thanks to a reconfigured rear layout and the introduction of the class-exclusive Split Gate tailgate. The standard Navigator now offers up to 107.0 cu. ft. of cargo volume behind the first row, while the extended-length Navigator L stretches that to 121.6 cu. ft., with up to 37.4 cu. ft. behind the third row-an increase of nearly 15 cu. ft. over the standard model. A new Cargo Tailgate Manager adds multi-level shelving and can double as a table or bench seatback, enhancing utility without compromising luxury. In addition, there's a new two-piece tailgate that is designed to be more user friendly. Interior storage is quite good with lots of open and covered cubbies throughout. One disappointing note is a small glovebox.

Bottom Line-The 2025 Lincoln Navigator enters its fifth generation with a bold redesign, cutting-edge tech, and a renewed focus on luxury. Its standout features include a 48-inch panoramic display, Lincoln's immersive Rejuvenate spa mode, and a split tailgate with cargo management innovations. The twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 remains unchanged mechanically but benefits from recalibrated systems for quicker acceleration and smoother performance. Interior space is generous across all three rows, and the cabin materials-especially in Black Label trims-are upscale and distinctive. However, the Navigator still lacks air suspension, which affects ride comfort over rough pavement, and some interior plastics fall short of segment expectations.

Compared to the Cadillac Escalade, the Navigator offers a more serene cabin and easier-to-use tech, but it trails in material richness and semi-autonomous driving capabilities. Escalade's Super Cruise remains the benchmark, while Lincoln's BlueCruise is competent but less refined. The Jeep Grand Wagoneer delivers the most powerful engine and smoothest ride, thanks to its air suspension and Hurricane twin-turbo I6, but its infotainment layout feels dated and styling more conservative. The Navigator excels in second-row comfort and third-row accessibility, while the Escalade leads in cargo flexibility and the Grand Wagoneer in towing and off-road versatility.

Pricing for the 2025 Navigator starts at $99,995 for the Reserve and climbs to $116,495 for the long-wheelbase Black Label Special Edition. That places it above the Cadillac Escalade (starting at $93,945), making it one of the priciest options in the segment. While Lincoln justifies the premium with exclusive features like the Digital Scent system, Power Tailored Seats, and spa-like ambiance, buyers seeking value may find more compelling packages in the Escalade or Grand Wagoneer. Still, for those prioritizing tech-forward luxury and a sanctuary-like cabin, the Navigator makes a strong case.