2018 LINCOLN NAVIGATOR FIRST LOOK

2018 LINCOLN NAVIGATOR FIRST LOOK BY AUTO CRITIC STEVE HAMMES

Before the Cadillac Escalade stole the crown as America’s aspirational SUV, there was the Lincoln Navigator. And with the introduction of this next generation 2018 model at the NY Auto Show, Lincoln is determined to recapture its throne.

The twin-turbo V6 now develops significantly more energy, rated at 450 horsepower.  The gearbox gets 4 extra cogs; now up to a 10-speed and the aluminum-alloy body removes nearly 200 pounds.  That weight reduction has been reinvested in towing capability and cabin quietness.

I’ve sat inside and the interior showcases the Navigator’s most tangible improvements with a unique, elevated floating center console design; a theme that carries through to the 2^nd row. There’s storage in all three rows and an all-new cargo management system offers an adjustable shelf behind the rear seats permitting customized storage solutions.

Six USB ports, 4 12-volt outlets, a household-style plug and wireless phone charging keep connectivity at the forefront. SYNC® 3 with both Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ is standard. Second-row passengers have their own audio and climate control, while third-row seats feature power recline capability. Multimedia screens can access Slingbox TV through the standard Wi-Fi while an available Revel Ultima audio system with 20 speakers supplies concert-like sound.

The driver and front-seat passenger enjoy what Lincoln calls Perfect Position Seats, which offer massage, heating and cooling functionality, and can be adjusted up to 30 different ways.  And with Lincoln’s Black Label program, owners can further personalize the look with 3 preconfigured themes and take advantage of a wealth of growing membership privileges, such as access to a personal chauffer to drive you around in your own car.

The new Navigator goes on sale this fall.