
Lincoln Navigator: A New Way To Drive An Apartment
LINCOLN NAVIGATOR
A NEW WAY TO DRIVE AN APARTMENT
Words by Max Gonzaga
When I saw the last generation’s Lincoln Navigator I wondered if they would have been able to carry on such an avant-garde design as that of the concept car. After the months that have divided the unveiling from the release, I was happily impressed by the result: the new Navigator is exaggerated. It is in every respect, not just the size which continue to make it the ideal alternative to the Cadillac Escalade, but because in addition to the “normal” 122.5″ version, there is also the possibility of opting for the L version, with a step of 131.6″. For both models there are countless configuration possibilities, making your Navigator a real mobile apartment, only that most likely will be more refined and technological than the other house, the one without wheels.
Imposing, that front is literally impressive. A symbol of opulence that best summarizes the concept brought forward by designers, who have used the canonical straight lines and have intersected them with precision, in order to emphasize the size of this XXL SUV. The front grille is as said one of the most distinctive episodes of the entire car, equipped with a bumper that incorporates a large central air intake, with two smaller on both sides. Then there are the optical groups with LED daytime running lights, which are also present at the back and that in equal measure characterizes this hyper-Lincoln thanks to a layout of horizontal lines, such as those of the lights, but also of the chromed profile that allows to open the large tailgate. There are 22-inch wheels, preferable to the 20-inch version of the Base version and in this regard I think it is important to point out that even the entry level model is equipped with a considerable equipment in terms of safety and entertainment. Going beyond the Base/Premiere model we find the Select and then the Reserve, the one that responds affirmatively to your every request.
To move this colossus for the road we have a 3.5-liter V6, which thanks to two turbos delivers 450 horses and about 690Nm of torque. Here’s how, at about 3000 rpm, it will be all in all simple to free a street or overtaking another vehicle. Everything is done in maximum comfort thanks to the infinite adjustments offered by the seats of the first row, able to pamper you with a massage and even split the smaller portion of the pillow under your backside. The traction, which can also be used only on the rear, is in this case on both axles, which is useful in case of slippery terrain or unpaved roads, while the gearbox is a 10-speed automatic, precise but sneaky enough to a purely relaxed pace. The dashboard is cured, finished with soft materials and precise assembly – as you would expect from a car that starts at almost 73,000 dollars, while the infotainment display in the center of the dash is a big 10-inch touch monitor, through which you can interface your Android or Apple smartphone.
Returning to the practicality matter – which is very important in the USA – the Navigator offers the possibility to configure 7 seats divided into two or three rows, or 8 seats, while still maintaining a good load capacity, which becomes immense in case you fold down the two rows of rear seats. Even for those sitting behind there is plenty of space and the seats are just as comfortable, showing how Lincoln has managed to pack a complete SUV from every point of view. With this Navigator, Lincoln distances itself from the Ford twin, offering a model that highlights the desire for a refined and strong environment of a very personal design. Personally I find that the 16-spoke wheels give it that concept car look that accentuates the exclusivity and allows you to observe it not only for the exceptional car ideal for large families or those who require a lot of space, but for a nice car to look at, as well as to drive.