2008 Lincoln Navigator Road Test - Consumer Guide Automotive

Our road test for the 2008 Lincoln Navigator includes a full evaluation of the 2008 Lincoln Navigator from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2008 Lincoln Navigator, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2008 Lincoln Navigator help you decide if a 2008 Lincoln Navigator is right for you.

2008 Lincoln Navigator Road Test

Pros	Cons

Quietness	Fuel economy

Rear-seat room/comfort	Interior details

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

Acceleration

4WD w/Elite Pkg.	4WD L w/Elite Pkg.	Class Average
6	6	5.8

This Lincoln is not as muscular as rival Cadillac Escalade. It is still up to the task in any situation, abetted by an adept 6-speed automatic transmission.

Fuel Economy

4WD w/Elite Pkg.	4WD L w/Elite Pkg.	Class Average
1	1	2.2

In Consumer Guide testing, a 4WD L returned just 12.5 mpg, low even for this class. On the plus side, Navigator uses regular-grade gas. Note that 4WD models are too heavy to be rated in the EPA fuel economy program.

Ride Quality

4WD w/Elite Pkg.	4WD L w/Elite Pkg.	Class Average
6	6	6.4

Navigator's sheer size and weight tame most surface imperfections. Float and wallow are nonexistent. It's stable on wavy pavement, too.

Steering/Handling/Braking

4WD w/Elite Pkg.	4WD L w/Elite Pkg.	Class Average
4	4	4.2

Accurate, slop-free steering feel and a relatively taut suspension combine for confident cornering for a large truck. There's relatively little body lean in turns. A test of the similar extended-length Expedition shows longer versions of these SUV give up little maneuverability to regular-length models except in tight spaces. Braking is strong, but fast stops induce lots of nosedive.

Quietness

4WD w/Elite Pkg.	4WD L w/Elite Pkg.	Class Average
7	7	6.8

Impressively low noise levels. One test Navigator suffered from notable wind noise at highway speeds. The engine is vocal only in rapid acceleration.

Controls

4WD w/Elite Pkg.	4WD L w/Elite Pkg.	Class Average
5	5	6

Navigator strays from Expedition's large, clear presentation of gauges with a retro design of smaller, fussier, and harder-to-read shapes. The dashboard otherwise shares the Ford's straight forward arrangement of controls. The navigation system combines pushbutton and touch screen operation, governs too many audio functions, and loses legibility in many light conditions.

Details

4WD w/Elite Pkg.	4WD L w/Elite Pkg.	Class Average
6	6	7.6

Luxuriously soft leather upholstery and real-wood interior trim are standard. The premium ambiance is let down by low-budget switchgear feel, painted plastic panels, and a few too many unpadded surfaces. Kudos to Lincoln for making a rearview camera available, but it's unfortunately part of a pricey option package.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

4WD w/Elite Pkg.	4WD L w/Elite Pkg.	Class Average
9	9	8.6

No shortage of room in any direction. The seats are generously sized and very supportive. The steering wheel is not telescopic, but it has power tilt. Standard power-adjustable pedals help situate the driver well. High step-in is a negative partially addressed by the available power running boards. Visibility is hampered by thick roof pillars and rear headrests.

Room/Comfort (rear)

4WD w/Elite Pkg.	4WD L w/Elite Pkg.	Class Average
8	8	7.1

No opportunity to test with a 2nd-row bench seat. The buckets are too low to the floor and are a bit narrow for optimal comfort. The high step-in complicates entry and exit for smaller passengers. The buckets fold forward for good access to some of the best 3rd-row accommodations among SUVs. The seatback could use more angle, but two adults are surprisingly comfortable thanks to a chair-height bench and good headroom and foot space.

Cargo Room

4WD w/Elite Pkg.	4WD L w/Elite Pkg.	Class Average
10	10	8.5

The 2nd- and 3rd-row seatbacks fold flat into the floor, creating a vast storage area. The available power-folding 3rd row is a terrific feature that saves awkward stretching. A big glovebox, large center console, and sizable door pockets furnish abundant small-item storage.

Value within Class

4WD w/Elite Pkg.	4WD L w/Elite Pkg.	Class Average
6	6	5.4

Navigator is overshadowed by the more glamorous Cadillac Escalade, which has more power and more luxurious interior appointments. The Lincoln holds an edge over the 'Slade in some important measures. It costs less comparably equipped, has arguably better steering and handling, friendlier cargo management, and vastly superior 3rd-row seating. Navigator's real rival is the Ford Expedition upon which it's based. Except for nameplate status, Expedition delivers everything this Lincoln does, all at a lower price.

Total Score