Traversing the streets of America lately, we’ve been seeing an terrible lot of Lincoln SUV’s. Their recognition appears to be rising – they’re actually sharp wanting – 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 yr. We’re speaking “ever.” I’m unsure how this occurred, however we determined to right that oversight instantly and see what all the recognition is about.

Lincoln was solely too pleased to ship us a 2023 Navigator 4×4 Black Label to attempt for every week. Discuss beginning on the high. 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 way of a few generations now so it’s well-established.

The Navigator we acquired was in a coloration 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 engaging. There IS a number of 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 automobile 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 concerning the exterior was the wheels – the turbine look is so 1980’s and albeit on a automobile this dimension they appear like 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 coloration 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 and marketing take a look at group so I’ll simply say that it’s very good to have a look at and be in and depart the remainder alone. The Navigator Black Label has each conceivable luxurious merchandise accessible on a automobile at present.

The seats are totally electrically adjustable, heated, ventilated, and massager-equipped. For those who can’t get comfy in these seats, there’s one thing (a number of 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 cope with warmth, chilly, and an absence 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 glad 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 coloration and design vitality, however the inside does an ideal job of maintaining individuals pleased.

Underneath the hood lies Lincoln’s twin-turbocharged 3.5L V6 engine, making a sturdy 440 hp and 510 lb-ft of torque, hooked to a 10-speed computerized transmission. Whereas we didn’t must 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 robust energy below the hood and your proper foot doesn’t disappoint. It will get the heavy truck shifting rapidly and with out effort. Gas mileage is rated at 22 on the freeway and 16 within the metropolis for a combined common of 18mpg, however our mileage expertise was on the decrease aspect.

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 superbly and feels as if it’s a stable piece of metal as an alternative of 1,000,000 elements all bolted collectively. The steering is sharp and intuitive, and the turning radius is way tighter than you’d count on. Lincoln has made big strides of their turning radius within the new technology of vehicles and vans. The brakes too do a unbelievable job of stopping the heavy SUV rapidly and with out drama.

We had been completely impressed with the Navigator 4×4 Black Label. And whereas we almost swallowed our tongues upon seeing the worth ($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 top reward as we’re followers of the Grand Wagoneer and it’s luxuriousness. Beginning with the most costly mannequin within the fleet and feeling impressed with it has us desirous to attempt a number of the different fashions as effectively so we’ll be reaching out to Lincoln shortly to see if we will expertise a few of their different autos. Keep tuned.