Lincoln Navigator L Review

2009 Lincoln Navigator L SUV

Big on luxury and, well, just big, the Lincoln Navigator L exists to fill the needs of those seeking a full-size luxury SUV that handles both lots of passengers and lots of cargo. The Navigator L is an extended-wheelbase version of the Navigator; while the Navigator has been on the market since 1998, the Navigator L made its debut in 2007.

The Lincoln Navigator L gives buyers a venti latte-sized serving of high-end opulence, with luxe interior materials and a cabin whose swank but clean aesthetic calls to mind a pop star's light and airy Malibu retreat. There's versatility too, with a third-row seat that easily bows into the floor. Unlike many SUVs, the Navigator L doesn't shortchange third-row passengers; those seated in all three rows sit in comfort thanks to the ute's spacious dimensions. Considering said dimensions, the Navigator L's handling is fairly nimble. However, the SUV's 3-ton heft does test its V8, which offers acceleration that's adequate but never invigorating.

Other choices in this category offer more by way of excitement under the hood. Still, this Lincoln is a respectable choice for those in search of a luxury hauler that doesn't flinch when faced with large families and all their gear.

Current Lincoln Navigator L

With seating for seven, the Lincoln Navigator L rides on a wheelbase that's a foot longer than that of the standard Navigator. Buyers who choose this model get a whopping 128 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity (25 more than you'd get with a regular-length Navigator).

In its standard configuration, this SUV comes with two captain's chairs in the second row, but a no-cost option offers a 40/20/40 second-row bench seat that boosts passenger capacity to eight. Only one trim level of the Navigator L is available. The standard features list includes xenon HID headlights, power-retractable mirrors, heated leather seats for the front two rows, 10-way power front seats, power-folding running boards and a nine-speaker sound system with an MP3 player input jack, an in-dash CD changer, Sync voice activation and a rearview camera. Options include 20-inch chrome wheels that increase the SUV's bling factor, a hard-drive based navigation system, satellite radio, a rear-seat entertainment system and an upgraded 14-speaker sound system.

Under the hood is a 5.4-liter V8 that generates 310 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission that offers manual-shift capability. The engine's performance is tepid when faced with this Lincoln's bulk. Both two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive are offered, and the four-wheel-drive system features both high and low-range gearing.

This Lincoln's cabin offers lots of passenger room, with a third row that accommodates adults in comfort. And with excellent materials quality and sleek design cues, the Navigator L never comes up short when it comes to luxury.

In editorial reviews, the Lincoln Navigator L scored high points for refinement, but acceleration was lukewarm at best. Overall, shifting was quite smooth with the six-speed, but there was some hesitation observed in maneuvers requiring quick bursts of power. Ride quality was comfortable, and the Navigator L was surprisingly composed around corners. While the Navigator L isn't as ably powered as the competition, its unparalleled levels of sumptuousness will strike a chord with those in search of a king-sized SUV that places plushness above all else.

Used Lincoln Navigator Ls

The current-generation Lincoln Navigator L debuted in 2007 and has seen only minor changes in standard and optional feature structures. The 2009 model year saw a modest increase in horsepower from 300 to 310.

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* Edmunds.com maintains vehicle data as far back as 1990.