Lincoln Overhauls Navigator with High Tech and a New Face

Ford Motor Co. has moved its big Lincoln Navigator SUV further upscale with more luxurious appointments, advanced technologies and a regal face for the 2018 model year.

The Navigator, which hasn’t had a significant redesign in 10 years, is nearly 200 lbs lighter, thanks to a high-strength aluminum alloy body. Ford claims the SUV has more interior room than any other fullsize SUV. The big family hauler is powered by a twin-turbocharged, 3.5-liter V-6 engine that delivers 450 hp—70 hp more than the current engine—through a 10-speed transmission.

The new model will go on sale this autumn. Pricing hasn’t been announced, but the new Navigator will cost more than the current $63,000 model.

Exterior luxury features include a front mesh grille and Lincoln logo that illuminates as the driver approaches. The vehicle also projects a Lincoln-emblem “welcome mat” image onto the ground beneath the front doors.

Inside, the driver is greeted by a 12-inch configurable instrument panel and 30-way adjustable front-row seats equipped with heating, cooling and massage capabilities. Third-row seats provide a power-recline feature. In-vehicle wi-fi can support 10 devices simultaneously.

An adjustable shelf behind the third-row seats enables operators to customize the cargo area. The vehicle is wired with six USB ports, four 12-volt power outlets and a 110-volt plug. Ford’s own Sync 3 connectivity technology accommodates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto systems.

Other tech features include headlamps that automatically adjust their beam, widening at low speed to enhance side-to-side visibility and narrowing at higher speeds to reduce distracting glare from signs. A smart key fob system remembers individual driver preferences and automatically adjusts the climate control and infotainment system settings along with seat, mirror and pedal positions.

Optional technologies include a head-up display, a center console “media bin” with wireless charger, surround-view exterior camera, automatic trailer backup assist steering, adaptive cruise control, a 20-speaker Revel Ultima audio system and a second-row entertainment system with 10-inch displays attached to the backs of the front seats.