2013 Lincoln Navigator SUV

The only changes are new exterior paint colors: Kodiak brown metallic, midnight sapphire metallic, and ruby red metallic.

For the people who value elegance and style over fuel economy, the 2013 Lincoln Navigator is one of the best choices on the market. It has a beautiful exterior with lots of chrome to set off the basic colors that were available, and the new colors that are available for 2013. Coming standard with 18-inch wheels, it sets off a very flashy package as it cruises down the road. Since the Navigator is taller than some of the other vehicles in this class packing the cargo can be more difficult than some of the lower body styles. Having powered running boards, fold-down seats, and a power lift gate helps to make this problem easier to deal with. Higher option features include 20-inch chrome alloy wheels and a remote starting system.

There are two trim levels, the Navigator And the Navigator L, which is longer than the standard model.

There are two options for second-row seating configurations, which allow for different passenger arrangements. If the standard package is chosen up to eight passengers can be seated conveniently with enough cargo room to carry ample luggage for each. If the option of second row captain’s chairs is chosen, the seating arrangements falls to seven and the eighth passenger seating becomes a console between the second row chairs. The interior has lots of room for a passenger volume of approximately 130 cubic feet. Towing capacity is good for this level of vehicle at 8,500–9,000 pounds of cargo. There is an available option for, a Class IV trailer towing package in addition to the typical standard towing capacity. Interior cargo space includes 18.1 cubic feet behind the third seat/54.4 cubic feet behind the middle seat/103.3 cubic feet behind the front seat in the standard configuration. An enjoyable extra option is a powered moon roof for stargazing or to help occupy the children during long drives. Another optional feature is Monochrome Limited Edition Package, which adds extra accents, interior wood trim, premium leather seating, and other trim additions. The premium package can also offer a complete DVD entertainment system for the rear passengers. This feature is excellent for the family travel situations or even as a business addition for training on business trips.

The safety feature of many new vehicles includes a full complement of airbags almost as standard equipment rather than being a full safety feature. The 2013 Lincoln Navigator also has a rearview camera, power pedal systems, trailer-sway control, keyless entry for the driver side door, and voice activated Travel Link, HD radio, Sirius XM satellite radio, and other voice control features to help control driver distraction. Optional electronic features can be added to the transmission configuration to automatically handle the shifting more safely on steep downgrades and slippery conditions. The Navigator has a standard feature for tailoring driver alerts and warnings. Adding remote entry can be a safety feature especially in large cities to handle opening the doors while carrying packages or groceries. The more quickly a person can be inside of their vehicle, the less likely someone will be able to take advantage of them.

With a base price range of $59,000-$64,000, consumers will expect a good level of luxury and versatility. The 2013 Lincoln Navigator is available in two configurations. It can be rear-wheel drive only or four-wheel drive. The comfort level for eight passengers is respectable, and seven-passenger seating performs well for even tall passengers. The second-row captain seat option is very useful option for the consumer that does not necessarily need the eight-passenger seating or one that carries two extra passengers frequently and is more interested in their comfort. Having an acoustical windshield, excellent insulation features, and thick side glass gives the driver and passengers a very quiet ride. The engine configuration of a 5.4-liter V-8 with 310 horsepower and 365 lb-ft of torque is sometimes a little sluggish for a vehicle of this size. Adding a full load of passengers or cargo pants to make the pickup even more sluggish, which can definitely be a problem for some consumers. The six-speed, automatic transmission can be equipped with a towing and hauling mode. A two-speed transfer case is available for the four-wheel-drive option. An electronic shifting for shift-on-the-fly capabilities can be added to the standard package. The expected mileage is 13-14/18-20 mpg city/highway. An extra wide turning radius can be a problem for city drivers who do a lot of parallel parking, or parking in the garage. Those consumers will need to have a much a tighter steering radius.

• Cadillac Escalade
• Infiniti QX56
• Lexus LX570
• Mercedes-Benz GL-Class