Lincoln’s flagship SUV embraces a new era of refinement, blending bold American styling with a “spa-on-wheels” experience.
The Lincoln Navigator, one of America’s original luxury full-size SUVs, returns for 2025 with a comprehensive redesign that emphasizes not just presence and power but an elevated sense of comfort, technology, and serenity. First introduced in 1998, the Navigator helped define the large luxury SUV category, and now, in its latest iteration, Lincoln leans heavily into a philosophy of sophisticated relaxation, offering what it calls a “spa on wheels” experience.
A Familiar Face, Sharpened Lines
Visually, the 2025 Navigator retains the grandeur expected of a full-size SUV, but with subtler refinements that make it appear sleeker and more tailored. Both the standard and long-wheelbase (L) versions are available, though Lincoln’s careful styling work makes it difficult to distinguish between the two at a glance. The front fascia features a revised illuminated grille with daytime running lights that elegantly extend toward the central Lincoln star, while a similar lightbar treatment graces the rear. Upon approach, the lighting animates in a welcome sequence, reinforcing the vehicle’s prestige.
The Black Label trim, especially in its new Atmospheric theme, stands out with copper accents both inside and out, hinting at the level of customization and craftsmanship Lincoln now offers.
A Transformational Interior: Luxury as Therapy
While the Navigator’s exterior evolution is notable, it’s the interior that truly transforms the ownership experience. Lincoln’s latest models—including the newly awarded 2025 MotorTrend SUV of the Year, the Nautilus—aim to transform vehicles into sanctuaries. Nowhere is this ambition more fully realized than inside the 2025 Navigator.
Front seats adjust up to 30 ways for the driver and 28 for the front passenger, offering massages, heating, ventilation, and memory functions. Every adjustment is designed to soothe rather than complicate, supporting Lincoln’s goal of enhancing well-being on the road.
Second-row captain’s chairs can be optioned with heating, ventilation, and massage as well. They slide forward electronically for easier third-row access, prioritizing comfort and accessibility for all passengers. Four USB-C ports in both the second and third rows ensure every occupant remains connected.
Adding to the relaxation ethos, the Navigator retains Lincoln’s acclaimed “Rejuvenate” function. This customizable wellness experience combines massage seats, ambient scent diffusion, high-resolution imagery (such as waterfalls or auroras), and calming music to create a five- or ten-minute in-car meditation session.
Game-Changing Technology: A Panoramic Digital Cockpit
The centerpiece of the new Navigator’s technology suite is a massive 48-inch panoramic digital display that stretches from A-pillar to A-pillar. This screen, inherited from the Nautilus but modified for the Navigator’s wider cabin, is paired with an 11.1-inch touchscreen for core controls like climate and media.
Running the award-winning Lincoln Digital Experience software, the interface is intuitive, customizable, and minimizes distractions. Navigation, entertainment, and even climate settings are displayed prominently yet tastefully. The fonts, graphics, and layout were meticulously designed to provide essential information at a glance, enhancing safety without overwhelming the driver.
New features for 2025 include a daytime “light mode,” an evolving Quick Tips app, YouTube video streaming capability (where equipped), improved HVAC controls, new panoramic screen widgets, and enhanced user profile management.
While some minor gripes persist—such as the placement of the ignition button and the slightly off-center information cluster—most of these could be addressed in future over-the-air updates.
Driving Dynamics: Serene Power and Effortless Control
Powered by a carry-over 3.5-liter twin-turbo V-6 producing 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque, the Navigator remains confidently quick for its size, reaching 0–60 mph in an estimated 5.7 to 6.2 seconds. A smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission complements the powertrain, and road noise is impressively muted thanks to thorough sound insulation.
Even riding on massive 22- or optional 24-inch wheels, the Navigator delivers a composed ride, aided further by adaptive suspension tuning. Drivers can also engage Ford’s BlueCruise hands-free driving system, which enhances highway driving comfort and rivals GM’s Super Cruise for effectiveness.
Handling is predictable and relaxing rather than sporty, with accurate, slightly heavy steering that makes it easy to place the large SUV on the road. The newly adopted “squircle” steering wheel design improves sightlines to the panoramic screen and adds a futuristic touch to the driving experience.
Practical Upgrades: Smarter Cargo and Seating Solutions
Lincoln revamped the cargo area with a split tailgate reminiscent of the BMW X5’s design. The upper section opens normally, while the lower portion drops like a traditional tailgate, helping prevent items from falling out. Clever touches like lights built into the liftgate and an optional cargo management panel—convertible into a bench or a buffet table—enhance the Navigator’s versatility for tailgates or family outings.
The interior materials, especially on the top-tier Black Label trims, showcase Lincoln’s commitment to craftsmanship. Wood inlays, textured trims, intricate stitching, and a 28-speaker Revel Ultima audio system create a cocoon of luxury that feels both thoughtful and indulgent.
Pricing and Competition: A Worthy American Rival
Starting at an estimated $101,990 and reaching over $135,000 for fully loaded Black Label L models, the 2025 Navigator sits firmly at the top of the American luxury SUV market. Its main rival, the freshly updated 2025 Cadillac Escalade, offers a distinct challenge with its V-8 power and its own innovations in technology and luxury.
However, Lincoln’s Navigator makes a compelling case for itself with a unique blend of serenity, technology, and user-focused luxury, shifting the conversation away from sheer opulence toward total wellness and relaxation on the move.
Final Thoughts: A New Definition of American Luxury
The 2025 Lincoln Navigator doesn’t just update an icon—it reimagines what a full-size luxury SUV can be. By combining traditional American grandeur with modern design, advanced technology, and a user experience centered on peace and well-being, Lincoln elevates the Navigator to a higher plane. For those seeking more than just an imposing presence on the road—those craving a true sanctuary—the new Navigator delivers in every sense.
