1998-2002 Lincoln Navigator: Road Test

Though too big and heavy to drive like a car, Navigator does have good scoot for a large sport utility. The latest 300-horsepower engine is stronger than Expedition's, promising robust acceleration and plenty of low-speed muscle for swift passing. Even better, though not really agile, it handles with surprising poise on twisty roads. Body lean is modest, at least at reasonable cornering velocities. On the down side, steering feels too light and divorced from the road, especially on 4x4 models. Those 4x4s also yield a stiff and jiggly ride that's absent on 2WD models, which ride nearly as smooth as some regular passenger cars. Both versions are quiet in highway driving. Navigator offers the same towing brawn and convenient Control Trac 4WD operation as the Expedition, with a simple dashboard switch to select 2WD, automatic 4WD (which shifts automatically between 2WD/4WD, locked-in 4WD High, and 4WD Low). Demerits include dismal fuel economy--just over 12 mpg in our tests, with 2WD or 4WD. Some drivers have found seats to be too hard and low, lacking in lumbar support. Accessing the third-row seat is difficult, however, so it's best left to preteens. Front-seat space is bountiful, and the Navigator is wide enough for comfortable 3-across adult seating in the second row. A nearly flat floor means no one has to straddle a hump. Sheer size makes the Navigator difficult to park. Overall height, especially in 4WD form, may prevent the big SUV from fitting in some garages. Getting inside is a task, due to the tall step-up into the interior, even on 2WD models. It's worse yet on 4x4s, despite the air suspension that lowers the vehicle an inch when the ignition is turned off. That inch just isn't enough to make a difference. Instruments and controls are well laid-out, and the steering wheel holds a nice array of duplicate radio and climate controls. Cargo space is skimpy with the third seat in place, but immense if it's removed. Because it's heavy, though, removal is a 2-person task. Interior storage possibilities are unmatched: two gym-bag-sized center consoles, plus bins and pockets galore--though nothing is lockable. Visibility is good to the front and sides, but hindered to the rear by a forest of large headrests. Touches of wood trim highlight rich-looking interior materials. Two options are worth looking for: The new Reverse Sensing System is helpful, sounding a warning of unseen objects while backing up. Shorter drivers are likely to favor the adjustable-pedal cluster, which moves the unit forward by as much as 3 inches.

Value for the Money
A hot seller from the start, Navigator drew buyers in their 40s--markedly younger than usual for Lincoln. Some observers derided the Navigator's blatantly excessive body trim, but plenty of shoppers loved it. All told, Navigator might be a good buy--not much more costly than the highly rated Expedition, and loaded with amenities. A Navigator contains every luxury a semireasonable hedonist could covet--as well as real stretch-out space, in both front and rear.