With apologies to Marshawn Lynch, the 2015 Lincoln Navigator is “Beast Mode” on wheels. And I’m not just sayin’ that so I won’t get fined. Navigator is big. Navigator is powerful. Navigator is durable. Navigator is expensive. Navigator doesn’t talk.
But it does differ from Marshawn in the fact it will run out-of-bounds, thanks to the full-size, luxury SUV’s Control Trac all-wheel drive system that makes driving in the elements a no-fuss, no-muss proposition.
Powered by a new 3.5-liter, twin-turbocharged EcoBoost engine mated to a six-speed, select-shift, automatic transmission, the Navigator seats up to seven adults in upper-crust comfort. My tester came with front- and second- row captain’s chair seating and a third-row bench.
The engine is projected to deliver at least 370-horsepower and 430 lb.-ft. of torque, according to preliminary test data. And, if you own “Beast Mode,”you need another large toy – preferably a large boat or trailer – as the Navigator also delivers best-in class towing. Gas mileage is slightly compromised, with a combined city/highway EPA rating of 17 miles per gallon.
Not only does the Navigator cruise down the road with power to spare, it handles with surprising ease. With the addition of standard electric power-assisted steering, it’s easy to maneuver with precision through a range of speeds, and in particular, makes it easier to park.
While it may take a step ladder to give this bad boy a bath, it’s easy for passengers to get in and out, thanks
to running boards that deploy when the doors are opened, and a power tailgate that swings open with the push of a button.
Of course, a long list of luxurious amenities awaits the lucky owners of a Navigator. Highlights include a voice-activated navigation system, dual-zone climate control, heated and cooled front seats, MyLincoln Touch displayed on an eight-inch screen enables the driver to make phone calls, play music and set cabin temperature controls. Other goodies include rain-sensing wipers, THXII certified audio system, satellite radio and ambient lighting.
My tester included an optional “Reserve Equipment Group” that adds Lincoln Drive Control, 22-inch polished aluminum wheels and upgraded P285/45R22 all-season BSW tires for a $6,850 investment.
Lincoln Drive Control adds continuously controlled damping that automatically adjusts the suspension to provide a smoother, improved ride. And it allows the driver to customize their ride by selecting one of three
different control modes: normal, sport and comfort. The Navigator’s ride was so smooth, driving at 60 miles
per hour down the freeway felt like 40.
Navigator also offers driver-friendly Hill Start/Descent Assist. When parked on a hill with a grade of five
degrees or more, the vehicle remains stationary for up to two seconds after the driver releases the brake pedal. It also includes Nivomat, a load-leveling system that automatically raises a loaded rear end to optimum ride height for improved handling.
2015 LINCOLN NAVIGATOR
Base price: $65,055
As tested: $73,395
Base price includes destination charge. Vehicles are provided by the manufacturer. Prices may vary at local dealerships.
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