2001 Lincoln Navigator Road Test - Consumer Guide Automotive

Our road test for the 2001 Lincoln Navigator includes a full evaluation of the 2001 Lincoln Navigator from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2001 Lincoln Navigator, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2001 Lincoln Navigator help you decide if a 2001 Lincoln Navigator is right for you.

2001 Lincoln Navigator Road Test

Pros	Cons

Passenger and cargo room	Fuel economy

Instruments/controls	Entry/exit

Build quality	Maneuverability

Interior materials

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

Acceleration

2WD	4WD w/nav. sys.	Class Average
5	5	4

Because Navigator's 300-hp 5.4 is fighting more weight, it's not much quicker than Expedition's 260-hp version. Both are only adequate performers.

Fuel Economy

2WD	4WD w/nav. sys.	Class Average
2	2	2

A 5.4-liter 4WD Expedition returned a sobering 12.0 mpg, similar to our test Navigator.

Ride Quality

2WD	4WD w/nav. sys.	Class Average
6	5	5.4

Rear-drive models have a stable, relatively soft ride. 4x4s are stiffer and jiggle more, but aren't jarring.

Steering/Handling/Braking

2WD	4WD w/nav. sys.	Class Average
3	3	3.2

Not agile but easy enough to drive for their size. Body lean is modest as long as cornering speeds are. Brakes provide adequate but unexceptional stopping power.

Quietness

2WD	4WD w/nav. sys.	Class Average
6	6	5.4

Wind and road noise well muffled, as is engine thrash except in hard acceleration.

Controls

2WD	4WD w/nav. sys.	Class Average
7	4	4.8

Navigator has fancier standard trim but same user-friendly dashboard design as Expedition. Most test examples have had impressively solid build quality, but our last test Navigator suffered ill-fitting interior trim.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

2WD	4WD w/nav. sys.	Class Average
9	9	7.6

Plenty of stretch-out room in all directions for even the largest occupants. But these tall SUVs have a higher step-in than General Motors' full-size SUVs.

Room/Comfort (rear)

2WD	4WD w/nav. sys.	Class Average
9	9	7

Wide enough for comfortable three-across adult seating, and a nearly flat floor means no one straddles a hump. The 3rd-row seat is cramped for adults.

Cargo Room

2WD	4WD w/nav. sys.	Class Average
9	9	7.4

Cargo room cavernous without the 3rd-row seat, skimpy with it in place. Both 2nd- and 3rd-row seats fold and remove. Heavy liftgate is a chore to use. Cabin storage space plentiful.

Value within Class

2WD	4WD w/nav. sys.	Class Average
3	3	2.9

Modern, refined Expedition is a Best Buy full-size SUV. Costlier Navigator isn't as good a value, though offers some luxury options not available on Expedition.

Total Score