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The Exterior
First Impressions
The Navigator received a major redesign a few years ago, and it still feels modern and upscale. The front grille is bold without being overdone, and the chrome accents give it a true luxury feel. The Lincoln badge and subtle design details throughout the exterior make it look polished and expensive.
The "L" model adds an extra 12 inches behind the third row, giving families more cargo space without sacrificing passenger comfort.
While the rear styling isn't my favorite compared to some newer competitors, the rest of the vehicle makes up for it.
First Row
Interior Comfort Is Where the Navigator Shines
As soon as you climb inside, it's obvious that comfort was a priority.
The front seats are some of the most comfortable I've ever sat in. They're heated, ventilated, offer massage functions, and have countless adjustment options so you can truly customize your seating position. Even on long road trips, these seats help reduce fatigue.
The cabin also feels thoughtfully designed with:
- Large door pockets
- Wireless phone charging
- USB-A and USB-C ports
- Deep center console storage
- Plenty of cubbies for everyday family items
- Panoramic sunroof
The infotainment system is simple to use and includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and navigation.
Areas Where It Falls Behind
For a vehicle with a price tag over $100,000, there are a few missing features that surprised me.
Compared to competitors like the Escalade and Grand Wagoneer, I would have liked to see:
- A digital rearview camera mirror
- Blind spot camera views displayed in the instrument cluster
- Rear window sunshades for second-row passengers
These aren't deal breakers, but they are features many buyers expect in this price range.
Second Row
Second Row: Built for Families
The second row offers excellent legroom—even with the driver's seat adjusted for a six-foot adult.
Families can choose between:
- Captain's chairs
- Second-row bench
One of my favorite features is the car-seat-friendly tilt, which allows you to access the third row without uninstalling a forward-facing car seat. If you've ever wrestled with getting kids into the third row, you'll appreciate how much easier this makes everyday life.
There are also rear climate controls, charging ports, and plenty of headroom.
One of the Best Car Seat Setups Available
This is where the Navigator really separates itself.
From a child passenger safety perspective, the Navigator offers one of the best car seat configurations in the luxury SUV segment.
With captain's chairs, you'll find:
- Four sets of lower anchors
- Five tether anchors
- Lower anchors in the third-row outboard seats
- Tether anchors for all three third-row seating positions
Many competing full-size SUVs—including the Escalade, Tahoe, and Suburban—don't offer lower anchors in the third row.
If you're regularly installing multiple car seats or booster seats, this flexibility makes a huge difference.
Third Row
Third Row Adults Can Actually Use
Unlike many SUVs where the third row feels like an afterthought, the Navigator's rear seats are surprisingly comfortable.
Passengers get:
- Excellent headroom
- Ceiling-mounted air vents
- USB charging ports
- Cup holders
- Storage cubbies
- Reclining seatbacks
Another big win? The third row includes a center head restraint.
That may sound minor, but it's an important safety feature that several competitors still leave out.
Trunk
Cargo Space
The extended-wheelbase Navigator L provides plenty of room behind the third row.
During my test, an UPPAbaby Vista stroller fit easily with room left over for groceries and everyday gear.
The Grand Wagoneer offers slightly more cargo space, but the Navigator still delivers plenty of practical storage for most families.
One feature I especially appreciate is the power-folding second and third rows that can be operated directly from the cargo area. A simple press of a button folds the seats automatically—perfect when your hands are already full.
Safety
When it comes to safety, the 2023 Lincoln Navigator checks a lot of boxes. It earned a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from the NHTSA, and it comes standard with Lincoln Co-Pilot360 2.0, which includes many of the driver-assist features families are looking for. You'll get Automatic Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Monitoring, Intersection Assist, and Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control to help make everyday driving a little less stressful. If you opt for the available ActiveGlide system, you can even enjoy hands-free driving on compatible highways while the vehicle monitors to make sure you're still paying attention. Plus, the available 360-degree camera makes parking this large SUV much easier by giving you a full view of everything around the vehicle.
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