Buyer's Guide: 2006 Lincoln Navigator

Having received a new engine in 2005, the Lincoln Navigator sails into 2006 with only a new standard power moonroof, the deletion of the lockable glove compartment latch, and colour changes. On the outside, Pewter Clearcoat Metallic has been added; on the inside, you can now get Charcoal Black. Fleet buyers can also get a two-wheel-drive limousine version.

The Navigator, which is based on the Ford Expedition, comes in a single trim line (several option packages are available) and uses a 5.4-litre V8 with a six-speed automatic transmission, and ControlTrac automatic four-wheel-drive.

Features include 18-inch aluminum wheels, power liftgate, high-intensity discharge headlamps, heated mirrors with integrated turn signals and puddle lights, remote keyless entry, roof rack, Class III/IV hitch receiver, six-CD stereo with nine speakers and subwoofer, dual-zone automatic climate control, auxiliary rear fan controls, driver’s memory function, power-adjustable pedals, leather and wood steering wheel with audio, climate and speed controls, power sunroof, power flip-out rear quarter windows, heated and cooled front leather seats with ten-way power adjustment, and a 60/40 third-row seat that folds flat into the floor.

The “Lincoln Town Truck” is an exceptionally comfortable vehicle, able to tow up to 3,764 kg (8300 lbs) while still offering such amenities as an optional rear-seat DVD system to keep small passengers quiet while you’re towing the boat to the cottage. Access to the third row of seats is quite good, although they’re a tight fit and more suited to children; their fold-flat capability is a bonus when you’ve got a lot of cargo to haul. The Navigator is less expensive than the Cadillac Escalade, and to many eyes, its design seems more integrated as a Lincoln and less like a Ford with badges stuck on. With the demise of the smaller Aviator for 2006, the Navigator is once again Lincoln’s sole SUV choice.