2006 Lincoln Navigator 5.4L V8 6AT AWD (310 HP)

Vehicle Overview

In February 2006, Lincoln unveiled the third generation of the Navigator at the Chicago Auto Show for the 2007 model year, re-igniting the battle in the luxury full-size SUV segment.

Almost two decades after the introduction of the Navigator lineup in Lincoln’s inventory, the full-size luxury SUV was one of the most significant cars in its market segment. It was the kind of vehicle that showed the wealth and power of its owners, just like the Escalade from Cadillac. Furthermore, neither European nor Japanese automakers had something similar to offer. It was the battle of two American giants that competed in a segment they invented and dominated. For the third generation of the Navigator, Lincoln adopted a new design language for the exterior and a fresh cabin that boasted a high level of luxury, fit for those who paid a six-figure price on a vehicle that sat on a chassis shared with the best-selling pickup-truck ever, the well-known F-150. However, the automaker created a specific independent rear suspension and additional bushings for the Navigator that isolated the cabin from road noises.

The 2007 Lincoln Navigator came with a completely redesigned front fascia. The previously used cascade grille was replaced by a broad one featuring a grid-like styling with a chromed finish. The rectangular HID headlights and the chromed trims on the bumper amplified its commanding look on the road. Furthermore, the bumper featured shiny trims that integrated round fog lamps, enhancing the SUV’s luxurious look.

While the 2006 Lincoln Navigator shared its platform with the Ford Expedition, there were significant differences between these vehicles. The luxurious full-size SUV came with a short or a long wheelbase, the latter being named the Navigator L. Both versions featured flared front and rear wheel arches and ran on standard 18-inch alloy wheels with an option for a 20-inch set. The fixed running boards that eased ingress and egress to the vehicle were standard, while a set of retractable ones were available. The extended wheelbase version had a longer rear door and enlarged trunk area, fitted with wider windows next to it. At the back, the power-operated tailgate was still part of the package, a feat that Lincoln offered ever since the first generation of the Navigator.

Inside, all versions of the 2006 Lincoln Navigator featured three-row seating with room for up to eight occupants. However, those looking for superior comfort could get the vehicle with two captain seats on the second row, with a center console that doubled as a table and a fridge. At the front, the leather-clad bucket seats fronted an angular-shaped dashboard featuring genuine wood trims and an analog clock between the center vents. The angular styling continued on the instrument panel filled with large dials for the speedometer and tachometer and the additional gauges for the ammeter, fuel level, coolant temperature, and oil pressure. On the center stack, Lincoln installed a standard THX II Certified Audio System across the range, which was MP3-compatible and featured a six-disc in-dash CD changer. In addition, a DVD-based Navigation unit with a color touchscreen.

Under the hood, the 5.4-liter V8 engine was carried over from the previous generation and was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The full-size luxury SUV was available with a towing package that allowed it to pull up to 9,050 lbs. trailer. Lincoln offered the Navigator with rear or all-wheel-drive systems. Unlike its predecessor, it wasn’t available with a low-range transfer box.