2016 Lincoln Navigator

After a thorough refresh last year, the Lincoln Navigator returns for 2016 with one key improvement: its infotainment system.

Gone is the old MyLincoln touchscreen system; it’s been replaced by the vastly improved Sync 3 system that offers improved graphics, easy-to-navigate menus, tablet-style pinch-to-zoom controls, and standard navigation. The Blackberry-supplied system offers Siri Eyes Free for iPhone users, but not Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, and can be updated over the web.

On the appearance front, the range-topping Reserve trim gains a new Ebony interior colour for the plush Trevito premium leather upholstery, as well as a new optional 22-inch wheel design. Black Velvet paint is also another new addition.

Available in regular and extended-wheelbase L versions, the Navigator is a traditional full-size luxury SUV that offers seating for seven or eight. Its body-on-frame design gives it a strong backbone, allowing it to tow up to 8,600 lbs – a figure you’d need an actual half-ton pickup truck to beat. The long wheelbase L can tow up to 8,300 lbs. At the same time, its standard adaptive damping and fully independent rear suspension provide it with a supple ride, even on oversized 20- and 22-inch wheels.

All Navigators come powered not by a lazy big-bore V8, but a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6. Though down on cubes, it packs a mighty punch – 380 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque when running on premium fuel. The engine drives all four wheels through a six-speed automatic, which, admittedly is down on the gear count compared to rivals like the Cadillac Escalade and Mercedes-Benz GL. The standard Navigator is rated at 16.2 L/100 km city and 11.9 L/100 km highway, while the L thanks to its shorter axle ratio, is rated at 16.1 L/100 km city and 12.4 L/100 km highway.

Despite its conservative full-size SUV appearance, the Navigator is suitably modern. Travellers are greeted by a swanky illuminated welcome mat and gain access to first-class accommodations through available power retractable running boards. All Navigators receive plus power-operated buckets with heating and ventilation, power tilt and telescoping steering column, power adjustable pedals, power sunroof, memory seats, and a leather and wood-trimmed steering wheel. Riders in the second row have heated reclining seats, a 110-volt power outlet, and plenty of rear legroom. Space in the third row isn’t as cramped as you’d imagine, with good levels of head and legroom. This is due in part to the Navigator’s independent rear suspension which allows for a lower seating position.

Overall cargo space is plentiful – standard Navigators have 514L behind the third row; Ls have 1,207. Fold the third row down and it increases to 1,542L and 2,444 L respectively.

If there’s one area where the Navigator lags behind the competition, it’s in active safety tech. Sure, a reverse camera is standard, as are front and rear parking sensors, and blind-spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert, but features like radar cruise control, emergency autonomous braking, and lane-keeping assist aren’t yet offered. These are all available on the F-150, and we suspect the next-generation Navigator will gain them, although it’s not due until at least model year 2018.

Pricing for the 2016 Lincoln Navigator starts at $77,400. Add an extra $3,000 for the extended-length Navigator L.