2019 Lincoln Navigator Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?
The 2019 Lincoln Navigator is big, powerful, and luxurious. Not only is the Navigator an excellent SUV for large families, but it's also great for towing heavy loads. Available advanced safety technologies make the new Navigator even more rewarding. While the Navigator is a high-quality vehicle, it does suffer from a few potential deal breakers. Is the Navigator worth its expensive price?
What's New for 2019?
No significant updates were made to the 2019 Lincoln Navigator. Last year, Lincoln completely redesigned the Navigation. Some of the key changes included an upgraded engine, more safety technologies, and new exterior styling.
Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2019 Lincoln Navigator – The Pros
1. Great Power for Towing
All versions of the 2019 Lincoln Navigator are powered by Ford's popular 3.5L EcoBoost engine. This twin-turbo V6 develops a monstrous 450 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque. Despite the Navigator's large size, it's able to move out in a hurry. When it comes to towing, the Navigator is just as formidable as a pickup truck. You use the Navigator's extreme power to tow up to 8,700 pounds. A trailering package comes standard. From horse trailers to campers, this powerhouse can pull a lot of stuff.
2. Can Handle the Snow
While the 2019 Lincoln Navigator is not built for hardcore off-roading, it proves to be an excellent winter vehicle. An optional 4WD system enables the Navigator to confidently maneuver on slippery roads. This is good news for the drivers who can't afford to miss work due to a snowstorm. If you happen to live in a mountainous area, hill descent control will help you to safely drive down slushy slopes.
3. Does Not Drive Like a School Bus
The 2019 Lincoln Navigator is definitely larger than the average SUV. Fortunately, it doesn't drive like a school bus. Automotive journalists actually give the Navigator top marks for its composed handling. When taking curves, this SUV remains surprisingly balanced. Body roll is further minimized by activating the suspension's sport setting. You will also enjoy the Navigator's quick-ratio steering system. A tight turning radius makes the Navigator easier to park than you may think.
4. Bold Exterior Styling
Although the 2019 Lincoln Navigator may be mechanically similar to 2019 Ford Expedition, it looks more elegant. The Navigator's big grille is definitely a focal point. Several other cool touches are found on the Navigator's exterior, including dual LED accents underneath the headlights. While the base model has a strong road presence, available 22-inch wheels give this SUV an especially bold look. Ruby Red Metallic, Blue Diamond Metallic, and White Platinum Metallic are some of the available paint colors.
5. Will Keep Your Family Relaxed
You won't find a more spacious three-row SUV. Even the Navigator's third row can accommodate adults. A cushioned ride also helps make the Navigator a great vehicle for traveling. While the standard seats feel nice, 30-way massaging front seats are found inside the range-topping Black Label model. Tri-zone automatic climate control comes standard on every trim. If you need more cargo space, choose the extended L Navigator.
6. Comes Loaded With More Than Enough Equipment
Although the 2019 Lincoln Navigator may cost more than $73,000, it's actually a better value than its German rivals. Even the base model feels quite luxurious. A boatload of equipment comes standard. Some of the nice features include a 10-inch touch screen, a surround-sound system, and a customizable gauge cluster. While six USB ports enable your passengers to keep their electronic devices fully charged, a power tailgate ensures easier cargo loading.
7. Sync 3 Infotainment
Lincoln gives you an upgraded version of Ford's Sync 3 infotainment system. It's a superb interface that actually makes your driving experience more rewarding. Because of the system's simple design, even first timers will quickly learn how to use it. Drivers will certainly appreciate Sync 3's smartphone-style screen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included on every model.
8. Features to Alleviate Boredom
As you know, boredom can cause kids to lose interest on road trips. Luckily, the 2019 Lincoln Navigator offers some features to keep your family entertained. A standard Wi-Fi hot spot allows everyone to surf the web. Lincoln also offers a rear-seat entertainment system, which features wireless headphones and twin displays. Kids will be able to play video games and view movies throughout the day.
9. Standard Blind-Spot Monitoring
Unlike advanced safety technologies such as lane-keep assist and automatic braking, blind-spot detection comes standard on the Navigation. This valuable safety technology will make your life on the road more secure. When you attempt to switch lanes on the interstate, it'll warn you of an incoming vehicle. Rear cross-traffic alert is also integrated into the system, which helps in busy parking areas.
10. Fuel Economy Not Bad for a Full-Size SUV
Despite the Navigator's heavy curb weight and brute power, it still manages to return decent fuel economy. According to the EPA, you can anticipate getting 16 mpg in town and up to 23 mpg on the highway. This SUV is especially efficient when cruising on the open road. Although premium gas is recommended for towing big loads, regular unleaded can be used in most situations.
Reasons Not to Buy a 2019 Lincoln Navigator – The Cons
1. Steep Price
The 2019 Lincoln Navigator will cost you a few coins. While prices start at roughly $73,200, expect to shell out more than $96,000 for the top-of-the-line Black Label model. Unsurprisingly, most consumers will find this SUV to be a costly purchase. If the Navigation is beyond your budget, consider the mechanically similar Ford Expedition. The base Expedition is at least $20,000 less expensive.
2. Not a Good City Vehicle
As expected, the Lincoln Navigator is not the best city vehicle. Maneuvering this big bruiser on narrow streets may prove to be a serious challenge. While an automatic parking system and a surround-view camera are offered, these parking aids still can't hide the Navigator's massive size. Furthermore, fuel economy dips to 16 mpg in the city. If you don't need the Navigator's roomier third row and enhanced towing capacity, consider the 2019 Audi Q7.
3. Not for Serious Off-Roading
The 2019 Lincoln Navigator is not the best SUV for serious adventure seekers. Although 4WD models can conquer a basic off-road trail, don't expect the Navigator to excel at tackling challenging terrain. If you want a tough-nosed luxury SUV, check out the 2019 Lexus LX 570. It's among the most capable vehicles in the class.
4. May Miss the Previous V8 Engine's Muscular Sound
In the past, the Navigator came equipped with a V8 engine. Although the twin-turbo V6 is very powerful, some drivers may not like its rather quiet sound. Drivers who are accustomed to a V8's muscular tone will may be a bit disappointed.
5. So-So Voice Controls
Good voice controls enable drivers to keep their hands free while on the road. You may not enjoy using the Navigator's voice controls. The system has trouble understanding natural language. This means you'll often need to repeat certain commands.
How It Stacks Up Against the Competition
Before you spend the money on a new 2019 Lincoln Navigator, first test drive the 2019 Ford Expedition. It's essentially a less luxurious version of the Navigator. You stand to save a lot of extra money.
Among the Navigator's primary American rivals is the 2019 Cadillac Escalade. While the Escalade ranks high in comfort, its V8 engine does not produce as much power. Most car reviewers consider the Navigator to be a better overall value.
You should also sample the 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLS. In order to match the Navigator's performance, buyers will have to upgrade to one of the more expensive GLS trims. However, an optional off-road package makes the Mercedes-Benz GLS a better choice for adventure seekers.
Conclusion
It's hard not to recommended the 2019 Lincoln Navigator. You'll will love its spacious seating and great utility. While the Navigator is big, most test drivers are shocked by its responsive handling. Although premium goodies such as massaging seats and a 20-speaker sound system are found on the Black Label model, a lot of people will be satisfied with the base Navigator's list of equipment. A potent engine ensures effortless towing and very quick acceleration. Despite the Navigator's inspiring highway fuel economy, Lincoln did tune the engine to develop more power using premium gas.
