2009 Lincoln Navigator: Road Test
2009 Lincoln Navigator ▼
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- MSRP: $52,440 - $58,340
- Invoice: $48,161 - $53,471
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Our road test for the 2009 Lincoln Navigator includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Lincoln Navigator from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Lincoln Navigator, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Lincoln Navigator help you decide if a 2009 Lincoln Navigator is right for you.
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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 | 2.5 |
In Consumer Guide testing, a 4WD Navigator averaged just 12.5 mpg, a thirsty total even for a vehicle driven in mostly city conditions. Poor mileage is slightly tempered by the fact that Navigator uses regular-grade gas. Navigator can also run on E85 ethanol-blended fuel. 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 | 6.2 |
Navigator's sheer size and weight tame most surface imperfections. It's stable on wavy pavement, too.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 4WD w/Elite Pkg | 4WD L w/Elite Pkg | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4.1 |
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 SUVs 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 | 6.9 |
Highway-speed wind rush from the outside mirrors is a blemish on otherwise impressively low noise levels. The engine is vocal only in rapid acceleration.
CONTROLS
| 4WD w/Elite Pkg | 4WD L w/Elite Pkg | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.9 |
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 push button 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 standard equipment.
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 doesn't telescope, but it has power tilt, and 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 one 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 as it 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 | 5.3 |
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
| 4WD w/Elite Pkg | 4WD L w/Elite Pkg | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 68 | 68 | 68.5 |
Total Score: 68
Scores for all Premium Large Sport-utility Vehicles
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