What's New for 2015

Introduction

With refreshed styling and upgrades under the hood and inside the cabin, the 2015 Lincoln Navigator looks ready to reassert its place among full-size luxury SUVs. The new split-wing grille is the Navigator's most obvious new addition. Large HID adaptive headlamps prevent the "wings" from wrapping too far around the tall, upright front end, but the breadth of the distinct chrome grates ญญ-- already large on the MKZ sedan -- looks positively epic on the big SUV's face.

The rear end, meanwhile, shows a more subtle evolution of the Navigator's classic lines with the now-signature full-panel LED taillight spanning the power liftgate. Standard 20-inch wheels round out the SUV's stance, while 22-inch versions are available for added presence. The new Navigator retains the proportions of the current model, and with seating for eight passengers and 103.3 cubic feet of maximum cargo space (128.2 cubes for extended-length models), that's a good thing.

Bigger changes come where they're needed most: under the hood. The current V8 engine is replaced with a twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 estimated at 370 horsepower. The downsized engine makes slightly more power than the outgoing V8 yet promises better fuel efficiency, while its 430 pound-feet of torque (estimated) should make the Navigator equal to any toy hauler in the class, luxury or otherwise. The new V6 pairs with a six-speed automatic transmission routing power to the rear wheels or to an available all-wheel-drive system.

Despite its truck foundations, a Navigator's plush ride is one of its hallmarks. For 2015, an optional adaptive suspension reacts to road conditions in milliseconds to cushion its passengers from bumps and imperfections. A mechanical load-leveling rear suspension comes standard, useful for improving ride quality when hauling or towing substantial cargo.

The Navigator carries over the center stack design of current Lincoln sedans, but adds a key improvement: real knobs and buttons. We never warmed to poking the capacitive-touch "virtual" buttons in previous applications, so it's nice to see the return of tactile controls. The MyLincoln Touch system still anchors the multimedia experience, offering touchscreen control over hands-free phone, audio, navigation and climate functions. It's an acquired taste, but has improved through regular software updates. Elsewhere, a rearview camera comes standard, while blind spot detection is optional.

Two second-row bucket seats aside a center walk-through are standard, but a 40/20/40-split bench is available. A power-folding third row is a thoughtful feature for those who often ferry both passengers and cargo. As before, the Navigator should be a wonderful place to sit thanks to generous layers of leather upholstery complemented by wood trim and metal accents.

The 2015 Lincoln Navigator arrives at dealers this fall. A new engine and new technology should also mean a new price, so expect the Navigator's base price to climb closer to $60,000. The current model starts at $56,945. That should still make the Navigator a compelling choice among other full-size luxury barges like the new, redesigned Cadillac Escalade or the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class. Check back for a full review of the new Lincoln Navigator, including specs, driving impressions and buying advice as it becomes available.