LINCOLN NAVIGATOR 2010
2010 LINCOLN NAVIGATOR
It's hard to believe, but Lincoln's iconic Navigator has been in production for over a decade. Trends come and go but, in the case of the Navigator, one thing is certain: It's a rock solid big SUV that offers considerable luxury and capability. Now, it should be no secret that the brand Lincoln and luxury go hand in hand, but many tend to forget that the big Navigator is a well rounded, capable SUV.
Luxury and Capability
Don't believe it? Think about this: When properly equipped with Lincoln's available Heavy Duty Trailer Tow Package, the big sport ute can yank a 9,000 pound trailer (2WD). For 2010, buyers automatically receive Lincoln's unique ?trailer sway control? as standard. From a trailer towing perspective, this is pretty much a stroke of genius. It functions in conjunction with the AdvanceTrac® with RSC® (Roll Stability Control?). Combined, they monitor the yaw motion of the vehicle to determine if the trailer is swaying. If it is, the control takes charge: It can reduce engine torque or precisely
Even without a trailer attached, the standard AdvanceTrac with RSC is always functioning in the background. This is the industry's only electronic stability system with two gyroscopic sensors, one of which is a unique
Providing the grunt necessary to move big loads is a 310-horsepower, 365 foot-pound torque 5.4- liter, single overhead cam V8. Where this engine differs from many others is the fact that it's flexfuel friendly. This means you can fill up with regular 87-octane unleaded gasoline, E85 (ethanolgasoline mix) or a combination of both. Compared to pre-2009 Navigators, the engine is certified to reduce smog-forming emissions by 55 percent. Backing the SOHC V8 is a six-speed automatic gearbox. The smaller steps between gears improve acceleration, while the double overdrive gearsets (fifth gear and sixth gear are both overdrive) help to improve fuel economy. Powertrain noise is reduced simultaneously.
Interior Amenities
As you can see, the mechanics and platform electronics are plenty stout, but what about the personal amenities? Truthfully, Lincoln never lets you forget you are in fact driving a Lincoln. Climb behind the leather-wrapped, wood-trimmed steering wheel and you'll be met with an instrument cluster that's reminiscent of the fabulous dual cowl job first seen on Lincoln's legendary 1961 Continental. The wood trim extends through the door trim and across the cluster center stack and through the sweeping center console. Chrome plated trim is abundant while the seats are scrumptiously trimmed in what seems like acres of high end leather. There's considerable space for passengers in all three rows of seating; and, in part due to the independent rear suspension system, legroom is rather abundant, even in the third-row seat. Pedals are power adjustable. Ditto with the PowerFold? feature of the third row seat. Front row seats are heated and cooled and the sound system is based upon a 14-speaker (no misprint), 600-watt stereo complete with a six-disc in-dash CD changer.
Lincoln's SYNC® voice-activated, in-vehicle communications and entertainment system (with a USB port in the first-row center floor console) is standard, as is a SIRIUS® Satellite Radio receiver. A voice-activated Navigation System with SIRIUS Travel LinkTM is available. This system, working by way of the SIRIUS Satellite Radio network, provides access to information and entertainment such as real-time traffic data, weather reports, fuel options sorted by price and/or distance, major league pro and college sports scores and much more. Other standard comfort and convenience equipment includes a rear view camera system, rain-sensing windshield wipers, Easy FuelTM capless fuel filler, forward and reverse sensing systems (that helps make parking a breeze), and heated second-row seats.
Options and Safety
If that's not enough, Lincoln offers several healthy option packages: Included is a Monochrome Appearance Package that features a revised grille, body color lower body side cladding, a bodycolor hood accent, and power-folding, heated body-color mirrors. The Monochrome Limited Edition Package adds ebony wood trim, unique Camel or Stone color Premium leather-trimmed seats with black leather inserts and black piping, and head restraints embroidered with the Lincoln star on all three rows. The Elite Package includes the voice-activated, hard drive-based Navigation System featuring SIRIUS Travel Link (with complimentary six-month subscription), nearly 10 gigabytes of digital storage for pictures and music, and on-screen image from the Rear View Camera, THX® II certified 5.1 surround audio system with AM/FM stereo/single-CD/DVD/Jukebox, MP3 capability, 14 speakers (including an 8-inch subwoofer), 600 watts of power and 12-channel amplifier, rear-seat DVD entertainment system, and power moonroof.
From a safety perspective, the Navigator includes six standard airbags: Driver and front-passenger coverage includes dual-stage front airbags along with front-seat side airbags. All outboard passengers benefit from the Saftey Canopy® System side-curtain airbags. Note that in certain types of side impact or rollover accidents, side-curtain airbags deploy from the headliner to cover all three rows. Lincoln also includes the SOS Post-Crash Alert System, designed to signal for help after an accident where an airbag has been deployed or if a safety belt pre-tensioner has been activated. Sensors direct the horn to sound and lights to flash so that the driver and passengers may be located. This safety gear is in addition to the previously mentioned AdvanceTrac with RSC system.
Driving Impression
Okay. So the 2010 Lincoln Navigator is a fully loaded luxury SUV. And a safe one to boot. What's it really like to drive? There are no hidden (unwanted) surprises when you climb behind the wheel. Suspension is tuned for compliance. That means it rides nicely and handles well for such a big vehicle. And, in truth, the big Lincoln Navigator does what you ask. The best way to describe it is quiet, confident and, most important, secure.
Lincoln Navigator - What the Auto Press Says
The 2010 Lincoln Navigator ranks 8 out of 11 Luxury Large SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 55 published reviews and test drives of the Lincoln Navigator, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
With a third row that's actually comfortable, the Lincoln Navigator is a plush place for all passengers. Not only does the Navigator offer adult-sized third-row accommodations but it also has good driving dynamics and head-turning style.
Despite the praise for its third row, an area where most SUVs get knocked, the Navigator loses some points for its engine, which some reviewers say is underpowered. Still, several reviewers call the Navigator a decent alternative to the Cadillac Escalade, offering a more useable third row seat and an almost equal amount of bling. However, the
If you just want a comfortable large SUV and can do without the bling, check out the Ford Expedition, the Navigator's less ostentatious cousin. It is just as capable and comfortable, but offers more casual surroundings and a lower price. Opt for the Expedition, and you're looking at a savings of about $19,000.
The Navigator is available in a base trim and a long-wheelbase L trim, and comes in either two- or four-wheel drive. The Navigator was last redesigned in 2006. For 2010, changes to the Navigator are few. The new features include standard trailer sway control, power running boards, and Ford's MyKey system. The MyKey system allows parents to limit the
Lincoln Navigator Prices
We want to help you get a good deal on the Lincoln Navigator. While MSRP and Invoice prices are set by the manufacturer, they tell only part of the story. What you really need to know is what other people are paying for the Navigator. We work with TrueCar, Inc. to help you determine what constitutes a Great Price, Good Price, or High Price for the
Engine: Gas/Ethanol V8 5.4L/330
MSRP: $54,950
Invoice: $50,620
Avg. Paid Nationally:$53,635
Transmission: AUTO MPG: City / Hwy Engine: Gas/Ethanol V8 5.4L/330
MSRP: $57,115
Invoice: $52,568
Avg. Paid Nationally:$56,271
Transmission: AUTO MPG: City / Hwy Engine: Gas/Ethanol V8
5.4L/330
MSRP: $60,015
Invoice: $55,178
Avg. Paid Nationally:$59,262
Transmission: AUTO MPG: City / Hwy Engine: Gas/Ethanol V8
5.4L/330
MSRP: $57,850
Invoice: $53,230
Performance - What the Auto Press Says
Reviewers say the 2010 Lincoln Navigator is a competent, but not standout, performer. The engine is disappointing to most, but the Navigator gets praise for its smooth ride.
- "The Navigator is rock-solid yet surprisingly agile and comfortable on the road, even on rough surfaces. Performance is more than adequate." -- Kelley Blue Book
Acceleration and Power
Every Lincoln Navigator is powered by a 300-hp 5.4-liter 3-valve V-8 engine which makes 365 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,750 rpm. Reviewers say the engine isn't up to the task of moving the large SUV, especially when compared to the thrust provided by the
- "About the only thing glaringly wrong with the Navigator is its overburdened 5.4-liter V8, which feels anemic relative to the Escalade's brawny 6.2-liter motor." -- Edmunds
- "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." -- Consumer Guide
- "This 5.4-liter feels pretty weak and never sounds particularly graceful. With a better engine and brake upgrade, the Navigator would be much more convincing." -- Automobile Magazine
Handling and Braking
On balance, most reviewers feel that the Navigator delivers acceptable ride and handling for such a large
- "Stopping, turning, and accelerating are not much fun in this tank, but once you're up to speed it's a smooth cruiser." -- Automobile Magazine
- +"It rolls down the road in isolated splendor." -- Car and Driver
- +"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." -- Consumer Guide - -"The ride is relatively smooth, but the vehicle is not easy to control at speed, in part because the steering doesn't provide crisp or immediate feedback from the road surface and requires constant corrections." The Detroit News
Exterior - What the Auto Press Says
The 2010 Lincoln Navigator has plenty of chrome and an imposing stance. Several reviewers say they like the standard automated running boards and doors, which make the tall Navigator easier to live with.
- "This
vehicle is tall enough that most folks will find running boards useful for climbing in and out. These [standard] power-deployable units present themselves when any side door is opened and retreat neatly out of sight when all doors are closed." -- Kelley Blue Book - "Every door and seat is heavy, so it's a good thing that the rear hatch and back seats are power-operated." -- Automobile Magazine
- "Chrome-tastic exterior may be too much for some." -- Edmunds
Interior - What the Auto Press Says
Reviewers praise the 2010 Navigator for having a spacious and comfortable interior, superior cargo room and a long list of modern standard features. The third-row seat, according to most, is even comfortable enough for adults. A few reviewers say the Navigator stumbles with down-market materials and switchgear.
- "The Navigator's retro-fabulous interior features a throwback dual-cowl dash design, square gauges that evoke a '77 Continental Mark V, and an impressive array of standard luxury features." -- Edmunds
- "The Navigator's ultra-quiet, leather-lined cabin is divided by a "flow-through" center console that sweeps up into rectangular "eyebrows" that frame both sides of the dash." -- Kelley Blue Book
- "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." -- Consumer Guide
Seating
On balance, most test drivers were pleased with the seating in the Navigator, noting its spacious layout with room to spare in almost every direction.
- +"First and second-row seating offers good head and legroom . . . Seating is soft but supportive." -- Kelley Blue Book
- +"Passenger room is excellent, even in the third row." -- Edmunds
- +"No shortage of room in any direction. The seats are generously sized and very supportive. " -- Consumer Guide
- "The non-telescoping wheel made it difficult to find a truly comfortable driving position. Sure, movable pedals may help shorter drivers fit better, but when you're over 6' tall and prefer to sit close to the wheel, there isn't much room for your legs. My complaint applies to pretty much all modern
Ford products, but it felt especially cramped in this Navigator given its prodigious dimensions." -- Automobile Magazine
Interior Features
The 2010 Lincoln Navigator has retro-styled gauges that are not well-liked by reviewers. However, Ford's SYNC infotainment system wins praise. The system allows drivers to control the stereo, navigation, and even their Bluetooth-enabled phones through voice commands. Plenty of other features, like leather, a rearview camera, heated and cooled front seats, and heated rear seats, are standard. Options include a DVD entertainment system.
- "Soon the whole world will be singing my tune about the wonders of Sync!" -- Automobile Magazine
- "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" -- Consumer Guide
Cargo
Cargo space in the Lincoln Navigator is abundant. With the second- and third-row seats folded down, the Navigator delivers 103.3 cu. ft. of storage space. With only the third row folded, the vehicle maintains 54.4 cu. ft. of cargo room. When all the seats are placed in their upright positions, the Navigator still maintains a respectful 18.1 cu. ft. of space. The folding third-row seat gives the Navigator a distinct advantage over the Escalade, which has a heavy third-row seat that must manually be removed for extra cargo space. Reviewers especially like the fact that the third row power folds with just the touch of a button. .
- "In any event, the power fold-flat third-row seat makes hauling cargo easy. With both the second- and third-row seats folded completely flat, the Navigator can carry 104 cubic feet of cargo, respectable for this segment" -- Edmunds
- "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." -- Consumer Guide
Safety - What the Auto Press Says
The government's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration awards the 2010 Lincoln Navigator a top score of five stars for frontal crash protection as well as four out of five stars for rollover rating in four-wheel drive trims.
Among other basic safety features, every 2010 Lincoln Navigator comes equipped with Advance Trac with Roll Stability Control and a rearview camera. Moreover, dual-stage driver and front passengers, as well as side-curtain air bags for all seat rows -- something that not all competitors offer -- are standard.
New for 2010 is the MyKey system. MyKey lets owners customize the Navigator's performance, limiting speed and stereo volume. The different performance parameters are saved on the Navigator's keys. The system is handy for owners who will be sharing the Navigator with teen drivers as Junior's key will make sure he stays within the limits Mom and Dad set when he's driving the Navigator.
Reliability
The 2010 Lincoln Navigator reliability score of 7.0 out of 10 is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the
The Navigator comes with a four-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. Lincoln also supports the Navigator with a six-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty.
J.D.Power Ratings
Initial Quality Ratings
These scores come from consumer ratings of their
ependability Ratings
These scores come from consumer ratings of their vehicles after three years of ownership.
iew more car ratings, new car previews, online classifieds, and safety ratings at JDPower.com.
J.D. Power and
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Front angle low view
Driver Side Profile
