2008 Lincoln Navigator Review discusses the American luxury SUV.

Friday, November 20, 2009

2008 Lincoln Navigator Review

The Navigator is a full-size luxury SUV that debuted in 1998. It was an instant hit, and by 2001, accounted for 40 percent of luxury SUVs sold in America. It was redesigned in 2003, with an exterior styled after the 1961 Lincoln Continental. The third generation debuted in 2007, and with it, the larger L version.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Lincoln Navigator is one of the premier American SUVs, and holds nothing back. It's aggressively styled, yet quiet inside; it's plush, yet rugged. The Navigator hits all the bases as far as a competent ride and a generous amount of features, and manages to be one of the lower priced luxury SUVs out there.

What's New For 2008:

Only one fully-loaded trim is now offered. Temperature controlled seats, a power liftgate, surround sound, and a power third row come standard. A rearview camera is now available.

What is the Predicted Reliability:

The Navigator earned 3 stars in J.D. Power's 2007 vehicle dependability survey. Problems with the first generation included noisy transmissions, drafts, vehicle noise and flaky engines. It was recalled 12 times. Problems with the last generation included flaky air conditioners, chattering wheels, water leaks, and vibrations. It was recalled three times for tire damage, inability to shift into park, and improperly greased wiper motors. Expect average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for four years or 50,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The Navigator earned 5 stars in government crash tests. IIHS scores are not available. Anti-lock brakes, full side airbags, a rollover sensor, and stability and traction control come standard.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Very quiet
+ Roomy, plush interior
+ Capable of some off-roading

Cons
- AWD not standard
- Moonroof not standard
- Not as powerful as some

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Cadillac Escalade costs over $8,000 more, but has over 100 more hp and more headroom. The Mercedes-Benz GL-Class costs about $5,000 more, but has more cargo space and gets about 5 more miles per gallon. The Volvo XC90 has AWD, but lacks navigation and has a smaller engine.

What Others Are Saying:

"On the road, the Navigator mimics its Lincoln sibling. Call it the Town Car of big SUVs. With its traditional body-on-frame construction, the passenger compartment is effectively isolated from outside noises so the passengers ride in mausoleum-like silence. Lincoln's engineers also have done a fine job in tuning the suspension for a comfortable ride. Combine that with the quiet interior and some of the best seats in the business and you have a prescription for fatigue-free all-day motoring." - Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

"The 2007 Navigator hits the most important marks for a full-size sport-utility vehicle. It's relatively smooth, quiet and huge both inside and out. While the styling is hard to peg, all models come equipped with lots of safety features and nearly all the luxury bells and whistles." - The New York Times

"A vehicle of this type isn't really very likely to disappear down a steeply inclined gorge any time soon, though it always helps to know that you can, if the desire so takes you. An easy setting to the right of the driver's knee allows you to switch from two to four wheels and shuffle between different heights should the need arise." - L.A. Splash

Read more about the 2008 Lincoln Navigator at the Lincoln manufacturer web site.

Published on Wednesday, March 12, 2008 - Email to a friend

Copyright 2006 BuyingAdvice.com, INC. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, rewritten, or redistributed.

Find New Cars