A person can't help but have high expectations of a vehicle whose lowest-priced trim is called Luxury. And the well-appointed Navigator Luxury does its best to impress.
With standard features such as a rear obstacle-detecting system, power-adjustable pedals, and fold-flat third-row seat, the Luxury has enough to please those who are only somewhat spoiled.
The Navigator is based on Ford Expedition and its powerplant is a 5.4-liter, 300 horsepower Triton 24-valve V8. That monster delivers 365 lb.-ft. of torque, although that still may not be enough for a rig this size. When properly equipped, the 4x2 Navigator can tow up to 9,000 pounds and the 4x4 can pull 8,800.
Some exterior changes mark the SUV this year, highlighted by some additional chrome, including the huge, cross-hatched grille. The headlights are more complex than before, and all of this sits below an imposing Powerdome hood.
In addition to dual-stage front air bags and three rows of side-curtain air bags, the Navigator offers a good list of standard safety features. Lincoln's AdvanceTrac, an electronic stability program, comes with Roll Stability Control, which senses vehicle roll and prompts the engine and brakes to respond as needed to maintain each wheel's optimum grip. There's also a handy tire-pressure monitoring system.
Interior comforts and conveniences run from an MP3-compatible audio system (with a complimentary 6 months of Sirius Satellite Radio), a wood/leather steering wheel, and other cosmetic accents. If two people alternate driving, they'll appreciate the memory feature on the driver's seat, pedals, mirrors, and wheel; everything moves into place when you hit the memory button, or even better, when you use your specific key fob to unlock the door.
To fully load your Luxury 4x2 you can throw in the power moonroof, DVD entertainment system, power liftgate, and 20-inch chrome wheels. The navigation system is not available on this trim.
