Traversing the streets of America today, we’ve been seeing an terrible lot of Lincoln SUV’s. Their reputation appears to be rising – they’re definitely sharp trying – however is there extra to it than that? It was then that we realized that we’ve by no means reviewed a Lincoln. Not simply final 12 months. We’re speaking “ever.” I’m unsure how this occurred, however we determined to appropriate that oversight instantly and see what all the recognition is about.

Lincoln was solely too joyful to ship us a 2023 Navigator 4×4 Black Label to strive for every week. Speak about beginning on the prime. Sheesh. The Navigator is Lincoln’s ne plus extremely. The highest canine of their portfolio. It’s additionally a mannequin that’s been of their line-up by a few generations now so it’s well-established.

The Navigator we acquired was in a shade referred to as Chrome Caviar Darkish Grey Metallic. It’s not as darkish because the identify would lead you to consider and it’s fairly refined and enticing. There IS numerous chrome throughout it, used as an accent, besides on the grille the place it’s the dominant theme. The general form and silhouette of the car offers it a considerably sporting look, although you’ll not mistake it as something from Porsche, Alfa Romeo, or Maserati. The one factor we actually disliked in regards to the exterior was the wheels – the turbine look is so 1980’s and admittedly on a car this measurement they appear to be Conestoga wagon wheels. Head west, younger man!

Inside is a big darkish cavern of darkish grey leather-based, chrome trim, piano black, and a few wooden paneling with a cool ornamental design on it that in all probability offers the official inside shade description it’s identify: “Invitation Theme” (there was additionally “Yacht Membership Theme”, “Central Park Theme”, and “Chalet Theme”). I’m guessing I don’t qualify as their a part of their core advertising take a look at group so I’ll simply say that it’s very good to take a look at and be in and go away the remainder alone. The Navigator Black Label has each conceivable luxurious merchandise obtainable on a automobile as we speak.

The seats are absolutely electrically adjustable, heated, ventilated, and massager-equipped. Should you can’t get comfy in these seats, there’s one thing (numerous somethings in all probability) flawed with you. The second row seating is simply as lucky because the entrance row however the far again row has to take care of warmth, chilly, and a scarcity of massaging. The 2nd and third row seats fold flat electrically, offering a LOT of cargo carrying capability.

The driving force (hopefully you) additionally will get the enjoyment of a heated steering wheel within the winter and a multi-function heads-up show. The second row must be happy with the overhead panoramic window and the person leisure screens whereas their massagers work out that kink within the fourth lumbar joint. It could lack shade and design power, however the inside does a fantastic job of maintaining folks joyful.

Underneath the hood lies Lincoln’s twin-turbocharged 3.5L V6 engine, making a strong 440 hp and 510 lb-ft of torque, hooked to a 10-speed computerized transmission. Whereas we didn’t have to tow something (can we even have something to tow?), the Navigator 4×4 got here with a heavy-duty towing package deal and we’ve little question it could have pulled a pleasant Airstream trailer or a Riva motor boat with none points. There’s a sense of sturdy energy underneath the hood and your proper foot doesn’t disappoint. It will get the heavy truck shifting rapidly and with out effort. Gasoline mileage is rated at 22 on the freeway and 16 within the metropolis for a blended common of 18mpg, however our mileage expertise was on the decrease facet.

The Navigator Black Label has an adaptive suspension system with ride-height management. It soaks up the bumps and potholes on awful Michigan winter roads fantastically and feels as if it’s a strong piece of metal as a substitute of one million components all bolted collectively. The steering is sharp and intuitive, and the turning radius is way tighter than you’d anticipate. Lincoln has made enormous strides of their turning radius within the new technology of vehicles and vans. The brakes too do a incredible job of stopping the heavy SUV rapidly and with out drama.

We have been completely impressed with the Navigator 4×4 Black Label. And whereas we practically swallowed our tongues upon seeing the value ($117,950), it doesn’t appear extreme when you think about simply how a lot Lincoln has packed into it. It additionally strains up with the Jeep Grand Wagoneer, which a few of our staffers likened it to whereas driving it. We take into account that prime reward as we’re followers of the Grand Wagoneer and it’s luxuriousness. Beginning with the costliest mannequin within the fleet and feeling impressed with it has us eager to strive a number of the different fashions as nicely so we’ll be reaching out to Lincoln shortly to see if we will expertise a few of their different autos. Keep tuned.