Used 2014 Lincoln Navigator

Lincoln created the full-size luxury SUV segment, and the 2014 Navigator does a fine job carrying on the tradition. The 8-passenger Lincoln Navigator for 2014 has many rivals, chiefly the Cadillac Escalade, Infiniti QX80 and the Lexus LX. But it still has a leg up on all of them with a higher tow rating, more interior room and power-operated 3rd-row seats that, unlike the Cadillac and Lexus, fold flush into the floor. The Navigator’s high-tech roster isn’t as up-to-date as other Lincoln products, however, and its interior is beginning to look dated. Still, the Navigator is big, impressive and somewhat intimidating to others in its path, which is probably why so many owners love it.

Lincoln is quite proud of the 2014 Navigator’s stiff body-on-frame structure and fully independent rear suspension that, in combination with its monotube shocks, lower ride height and a host of electronic stability programs, ensure a smooth and controlled ride. The Navigator’s variable-boost power steering helps firm up steering feel at freeway speeds and lighten it when more effort is required, such as when parallel parking. Overall ride quality isn’t as good as in more modern crossover SUVs, but it is far from truck-like, either. The big 5.4-liter V8 seems to struggle a bit when the Navigator is fully loaded, but it manages to get up to speed eventually and has ample torque for towing and passing. Strong brakes haul down the big SUV with authority. The extra-long L version feels heavier (because it is), yet drives very similarly. Both are uncannily quiet inside due to an acoustic windshield, thick side glass and superb sound insulation.

Depending on the 2nd-row seating configuration, the 2014 Lincoln Navigator can accommodate up to eight passengers as well as enough gear to stage a big family picnic. Opting for the 2nd-row captain’s chairs drops the Navigator’s seating capacity to seven but gains a convenient center console nestled between the two seats. The Navigator’s expansive interior (and the overall bulk necessary to enclose such a space) begins to make sense if you frequently fill all those seats. On the longer-wheelbase Navigator L, most of the additional length is dedicated to cargo space behind the 3rd-row seat.

The 2014 Lincoln Navigator is big and bold, and it is styled to accentuate those proportions and make its presence felt on the road. Its flashy exterior is characterized by a massive chrome grille, large xenon headlights and scores of chrome accents. The Navigator rides on standard 18-inch bright-machined alloy wheels; 20-inch chrome wheels and tires that really fill the fenders are an option. Although the power liftgate and power-folding 3rd-row seats help, the Navigator’s tall load-in height can make packing cargo a little challenging. The elevated step-in height is mitigated by power-assisted running boards that extend and retract automatically.

LINCOLN SYNC APPLINK
Sync Applink controls popular mobile applications on your smartphone through voice commands. Simply download the compatible apps and connect your smartphone to the vehicle via Bluetooth to manage applications like Pandora, Stitcher or NPR News.

POWER-DEPLOYABLE RUNNING BOARDS
To ease climbing into and out of this lofty SUV, the 2014 Lincoln Navigator offers standard power running boards that automatically extend when any door is opened and retract once all doors are closed.

The 2014 Navigator’s standard feature list is generous. Among the major items are automatic xenon headlights, 10-way power-adjustable front seats with heating and cooling, heated 2nd-row seats, a power-foldable 60/40-split 3rd-row seat, rearview camera, a keyless-entry keypad for the driver’s door and power-adjustable pedals. On the technology front, there are voice-activated navigation with SiriusXM satellite radio and Travel Link, HD Radio and a 14-speaker THX II-certified audio system. Standard safety features include a full complement of airbags, trailer-sway control and Lincoln’s MyKey system, which allows individual tailoring of driver alerts and warnings.

With just a single trim level, the Navigator only asks buyers to choose a length (standard or L) and a driveline, 2-wheel or 4-wheel drive (2WD or 4WD). An available option group offers a power moonroof and the Monochrome Limited Edition Package, which adds tasteful monochromatic accents, olive ash interior wood trim and premium leather seats with black inserts and piping. Stand-alone options include a rear-seat DVD entertainment system, a Class IV trailer towing package, remote starting system and 20-inch chrome alloy wheels.

The 2014 Navigator is powered by a 5.4-liter V8. It delivers its 310 horsepower and 365 lb-ft of torque smoothly but that’s frankly not a lot of power for a vehicle of this size, especially when fully loaded. The 6-speed automatic transmission has a tow/haul mode. The available 4-wheel drive (4WD) system uses a 2-speed transfer case with optional electronic shift-on-the-fly capability. In low range it switches the engine’s electronic throttle control to a special off-road calibration for more precise torque management in the worst conditions, such as climbing steep, slippery hills.

5.4-liter V8
310 horsepower @ 5,100 rpm
365 lb-ft of torque @ 3,600 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 14/20 mpg (gasoline, 2WD), 10/14 mpg (E85, 2WD), 13/18 mpg (gasoline, 4WD), 9/13 mpg (E85, 4WD)