Vehicle Overview A special all-black Navigator joins the lineup for 2002, which features body-color front and rear fascias, side cladding and running boards. A Reverse Sensing System that warns of obstacles at the rear while backing up and unique 17-inch machined aluminum wheels are standard.
Sharing basic styling and mechanical structure with the Ford Expedition, the full-size Navigator comes with more luxurious trappings and several unique features. Factory options include a satellite-based communication system with a hands-free, voice-operated wireless phone and access to e-mail, stock quotes, news, weather and sports. Lincolns Navigator is the foundation for the new Blackwood two-in-one SUV/pickup, which has an enclosed passenger area like the Navigators and an open cargo bed at the rear like the Ford Explorer Sport Trac. A Navigator redesign is likely for 2003.
Exterior Unique taillights and rear trim and a Lincolnesque vertical-bar chrome grille are the chief styling details that differentiate the Navigator from Fords Expedition. Measuring nearly 205 inches long overall 6 inches longer than the rival Chevrolet Tahoe and 22 inches shorter than the king-size Ford Excursion the four-door SUV rides a 119-inch wheelbase. The Navigators height is greater than 75 inches, and its width is nearly 80 inches.
Interior Leather seats are standard in the seven-passenger Navigator, which is designed with two captains chairs in the front and middle rows and a removable three-place rear bench. A three-place bench is optional for the middle row to create an eight-passenger capacity.
Power-adjustable brake and accelerator pedals with a 3-inch range are standard. An optional satellite navigation system includes a 5-inch screen and CD-ROM that provides route directions and lets the user either find points of interest or link to an emergency assistance center. Optional climate-controlled front seats use small fans to circulate warm or cool air through the perforated leather upholstery.
Under the Hood Lincolns 5.4-liter V-8 engine produces 300 horsepower and mates with a four-speed-automatic transmission. The Navigator comes with either rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. The 4WD system engages automatically and can be used on smooth, dry pavement and on slippery surfaces. All-disc antilock brakes are standard, and side-impact airbags are optional.
Driving Impressions The first-time driver of a Navigator is likely to notice one feature of the vehicle: its seemingly gargantuan size. Bulging body panels tend to make the full-size body seem even bigger than it actually is. On the whole, the ride, handling and performance differ little from the less-costly Ford Expedition. What you get are a lot of additional comfort and luxury features.
