The 2012 Lincoln Navigator is a luxury SUV that comes with a spacious third row, new AppLink for Sync, and blind sport mirrors among its other key features. This SUV is available in 2 sizes: the base model and the extended wheelbase Navigator L.
The Navigator features the customary body-on-frame construction, making it suitable for towing heavy trailers that cannot be handled otherwise larger crossovers.
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: SUV | Base Price: $57,775.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 28 gallons (106 l) | MPG: 14 city / 20 hwy |
| Length: 208.4 in. (529.3 cm) | Wheel Base: 119.0 in. (302.2 cm) |
| Height: 78.3 in. (198.8 cm) | Width: 78.8 in. (200.1 cm) |
| Curb Weight: 5794 lbs (2628 kg) | Ground Clearance: 9.2 in. (23.3 cm) |
| Luggage Capacity: 54.4 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 8 people |
| Engine: 5.4L V8 SOHC | Compression Ratio: 9.8: 1 |
| Horsepower: 310 HP | Max RPM: 5100 RPM |
| Torque: 365 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm | Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic |
| Max Towing Capacity: 9000 lbs* (4082 kgs) | Maximum Speed: NA |
*Properly equipped
| Option:Navigator 4WD | MSRP: $60,675; MPG: 14 city / 20 hwy |
| Option:Navigator L | MSRP: $59,940; MPG: 14 city / 20 hwy |
| Option:Navigator L 4WD | MSRP: $62,840; MPG: 14 city / 20 hwy |
Engine & Performance
Under the hood, the Navigator holds a 5.4L V8 powertrain that produces 310 hp and 365 lbs-ft of torque. The engine is linked to a 6-speed automatic gearbox. You can opt for a rear-wheel drive model that has a maximum towing capability of 9,000 lbs; or an all-wheel drive model that features a maximum towing capability of up to 8,700 pounds.
Fuel economy of the base model estimates at 14 mpg in cities and 20 mpg on highways. The Navigator L on the other hand rates at 13/18 mpg city/highway.
Exterior
One of the most eye-catching exterior feature of the Navigator is the grille, which has an egg-crate look to it with a big horizontal chrome bar that runs through the Lincoln logo. At the edge of the grille, there are xenon high-intensity-discharge headlights.
Other standard features are: a power lift-gate, rain sensing wipers, 18-inch aluminum wheels, capless fuel system, and new integrated spotter mirrors. Optional features include: moonroof and 20-inch chrome rims. The Navigator is available in 6 color coats: ingot silver, sterling gray, autumn red, tuxedo black, dark blue pearl, and white platinum metallic tri coat.
Interior
The interior of the 2012 Navigator is filled with high-end features ranging from power-retractable running boards to heated and ventilated front seats. The cabin is very accommodating with excellent comfortable seating capacity for 7. In fact, the third row is easy to access and even comfortable for adults.
You will notice the wood accents that are found in the inside the cabin. Another notable feature is the Ford’s Synch voice operated entertainment and information system. MyKey feature is also incorporated to allow the owner to set maximum volume and speed limits. More standard features include: backup camera, power-lowering running boards, satellite radio with 14 -speaker stereo and heated second row bucket seats. The base model has a decent cargo space of 104 cubic ft, while the longer Navigator L offers a cargo space of 128 cubic ft.
Safety & Reliability
The occupant’s safety is guaranteed through the many standard safety features fitted in this SUV. We start with the trailer sway control which is standard in all models, this uses stability control sensors to detect and reduce a trailer’s tendency to entwine in unexpected situations.
Standard safety features are: front-seat side airbags, antilock disc brakes, full-size side curtain airbags, child safety locks, traction control, integrated turn signal mirrors, brake assist, rear and front parking sensors, front tow hooks and post-crash alert system.
The Navigator comes with a 4-year or 50,000 mile limited warranty as well as a 6-year or 70,000 mile engine warranty. Customers will benefit from a 5-year or 15,000 mile complimentary maintenance.
Pros
• Many standard features.
• Smooth and composed rides.
• Upscale cabin with comfortable seating in all rows.
• Power-folding adult-sized third row.
Cons
• Disappointing interior quality
• Less power than competitors
• Cumbersome handling
• Antiquated electronics interface.
Generally, the 2012 Lincoln Navigator offers what is expected from such a luxury vehicle. From comfortable rides to a hushed cabin, the Navigator is definitely an ideal SUV for big families and people needing a large SUV. In addition, you get ample cargo space to store your luggage when on a long journey.
The Navigator base model is inexpensive compared to the other luxury SUVs like the Infiniti QX56 (MSRP $60,000; 14 city / 20 hwy), the Cadillac Escalade (MSRP $63,170; 14 city / 18 hwy), and the high priced Lexus LX (MSRP $81,230; 12 city / 17 hwy).
Overall Rating
70 out of 100
What others say:
“Vehicles as large as the Navigator can sometimes disappoint on functionality. That’s not the case here, where big seats with tremendous space define one of the best big-SUV interiors available.”Car Connection
“Accurate, slop-free steering feel and a relatively taut suspension combine for confident cornering for a large truck. There’s relatively little body lean in turns.”Consumer Guide
“The Navigator is based on the Ford Expedition and offers a longer version with increased cargo space behind the third-row seat. The later is about 15 inches longer than the standard version.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports
“As America’s first full-size luxury SUV, the 8-passenger Lincoln Navigator’s immediate success subsequently paved the way for additional challengers such as the Cadillac Escalade, Infiniti QX56, Lexus LX 570 and Mercedes-Benz GL. Big and capable, the Navigator can now add “high-tech” to its list of superlatives thanks to the addition of Lincoln’s new smartphone integration software, Sync Applink.”KBB
“The 2012 Lincoln Navigator impresses with a luxurious ride and cosmopolitan ambience, but its lackluster V8 engine will likely limit towing options for more adventurous owners.”Edmunds
