2025 Lincoln Navigator Reserve Review

Intro

The full-size luxury SUV segment has long been dominated by American manufacturers. While the Cadillac Escalade has been the traditional benchmark, Lincoln has been steadily refining its flagship Navigator to compete at the highest level. 

The fourth-generation Navigator debuted in 2018 to critical acclaim. It ditched the aged 5.4L V8 in favor of a twin-turbocharged 3.5L V6 producing 450 horsepower, adopted aluminum construction borrowed from the F-150, and introduced a level of refinement that nearly doubled its sales. The fourth-generation became the most successful Navigator in the model's history.

For 2025, Lincoln introduces the fifth-generation Navigator. Rather than an all-new platform, this is a comprehensive redesign retaining the proven T3 architecture. The changes are significant: completely new sheetmetal except for the doors, an all-new interior dominated by a massive 48-inch panoramic display, standard four-wheel drive across the lineup, and updated technology throughout. Lincoln has dropped the base Premiere trim, leaving only Reserve and Black Label configurations. It's positioned to go head-to-head with the Cadillac Escalade, Jeep Grand Wagoneer, and Infiniti QX80. Thanks to Lincoln Canada, I had the chance to test drive the 2025 Lincoln Navigator Reserve for one week. Below is my unbiased review.

Exterior

The exterior of the Navigator benefits from a complete redesign. The changes are evolutionary rather than revolutionary, but they give the Navigator a more modern and cohesive appearance.

At the front, Lincoln's signature grille is now flanked by a full-width LED light bar that creates a dramatic first impression. The headlamps are sleek and modern, integrating seamlessly with the light bar. When you approach the vehicle, Lincoln Embrace activates a choreographed lighting sequence that welcomes you. The lower fascia features prominent air intakes that give the Navigator a purposeful stance.

The long hood and commanding stance maximize the Navigator's road presence. The smooth roofline and 22-inch high-gloss ebony aluminum wheels are accompanied by clean character lines and black chrome accents on our Jet Appearance Package tester. The power-deploying running boards add both functionality and visual appeal. Due to the vehicle's imposing dimensions, measuring 210 inches from bumper to bumper, the Navigator looks substantial from every angle.

In the rear, the LED taillamps now feature a full-width light bar that spans the entire tailgate, giving the Navigator a more contemporary look. The power split gate is a clever design feature - the upper portion opens like a traditional liftgate while the lower section folds down like a pickup tailgate, making loading and unloading easier. The dual exhaust outlets are subtle but present. A large diffuser element in the lower bumper enhances the upscale appearance.

The Gray Mist Metallic Tri-Coat paint really brings out the substantial proportions of the Navigator. The commanding presence certainly places the Navigator in the same league as its American competitors.

Interior

The interior of the Navigator represents Lincoln's "sanctuary" design philosophy. The center console flows naturally from the dashboard, and all controls are logically placed. Lincoln has moved upmarket with premium materials throughout the cabin. They include aluminum door handles, genuine wood trim, premium leather door panels, and Nappa leather seats throughout the first and second rows.

The leather front seats are both heated and cooled, with extensive power adjustments. They provide excellent support for long drives, with generous bolstering and lumbar support. The second-row power-tailored captain's chairs are also heated, cooled, and include massage functions - a $2,500 option that transforms the second row into a first-class experience. Our tester seats seven passengers comfortably, though an eight-passenger configuration is available with an optional second-row bench seat. The third-row seats are covered in Lincoln Soft Touch material and are reasonably comfortable for adults on shorter trips. Access to the third row is excellent thanks to the power-folding second-row seats. Both headroom and legroom are generous in all three rows, befitting a vehicle of this size.

The interior of the Navigator doesn't try to out-tech the Germans or out-glitz the Cadillac. Instead, it focuses on creating a calming, luxurious environment. The 48-inch panoramic display stretches across the entire dashboard, combining the instrument cluster and infotainment into one seamless screen. Below it sits an 11.1-inch touchscreen that handles climate and vehicle settings. The Lincoln Rejuvenate feature creates a spa-like experience with coordinated lighting, scent, sound, and massage when the vehicle is parked. It's a thoughtful touch that reinforces Lincoln's focus on wellness.

Infotainment

The infotainment system of the Navigator is Lincoln's Digital Experience, and it represents a significant leap forward. The massive 48-inch display is sharp, responsive, and glare-resistant. The screen is mounted high on the dashboard to keep the driver's eyes closer to the road.

The instrument cluster portion of the display is highly configurable, with multiple layouts for different driving situations. The center infotainment section is equally intuitive, with large icons and logical menu structures. The optional heads-up display projects key information directly onto the windshield. All displays work together seamlessly and are controlled via the steering wheel controls, voice commands, or the secondary touchscreen.

There is a wireless charging pad in the lower center console, along with multiple USB ports - 14 in total throughout the cabin, including two in the cargo area. The system provides both wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, with Google Assistant integration as well. The Revel Ultima 3D Audio system with 28 speakers is phenomenal, delivering concert-hall sound quality with impressive depth and clarity.

In my opinion, Lincoln's infotainment system is right at the top of the segment. The 48-inch display is genuinely impressive and functional rather than just a gimmick. The system is responsive, intuitive, and feature-rich without being overwhelming.

Safety and Driver Assistance

The Navigator offers comprehensive safety and driver assistance features as standard equipment. The Lincoln Co-Pilot360 Drive 2.0 system includes:

• Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go
• Lane Keeping System with Lane Centering
• Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert
• Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking
• Evasive Steering Assist
• 360-Degree Camera System
• Reverse Brake Assist

The standout feature is BlueCruise, Lincoln's hands-free highway driving system. On designated highways, BlueCruise allows you to take your hands off the wheel while the system manages steering, acceleration, and braking. The system uses an infrared camera to monitor driver attention, ensuring you're watching the road. It works remarkably well on long highway drives, significantly reducing fatigue. The four-year BlueCruise trial is included with every Navigator.

Driving

In Canada, the Navigator comes with one powertrain: a twin-turbocharged 3.5L V6 engine that produces 440 horsepower at 5,850 rpm and 510 lb-ft of torque at 3,000 rpm. These figures are achieved when using premium fuel, which is recommended but not required. The Navigator will run on regular unleaded gasoline, but power output will be slightly reduced.

Our tester is capable of accelerating from 0-100 km/h in approximately 5.5 seconds. It reaches a top speed that's electronically limited to 185 km/h. The 10-speed automatic transmission is smooth and unobtrusive, with seamless shifts in normal driving. Manual mode is available via paddle shifters, though it feels somewhat at odds with the Navigator's relaxed character.

The Navigator excels at what it's designed to do: deliver smooth, comfortable, effortless transportation. The adaptive suspension does an excellent job of isolating occupants from road imperfections while maintaining reasonable body control. In Normal mode, the ride is supremely comfortable, soaking up bumps and road irregularities with ease. Switch to Excite mode, and the suspension firms up noticeably, though the Navigator never feels sporty - just more controlled.

The electric power steering is light and easy at parking speeds, adding weight as speed increases. Feedback is minimal, but precision is adequate for a vehicle of this size. There's noticeable body roll in corners, as expected, but the Navigator feels stable and predictable. The standard four-wheel-drive system provides confident traction in all conditions, with multiple drive modes (Normal, Conserve, Excite, Slippery, and Deep Conditions) to optimize performance. With our Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package, an additional Slow Climb mode helps manage steep grades when towing.

The Navigator does an excellent job of isolating road and wind noise. At highway speeds, the cabin is remarkably quiet, with only a whisper of wind noise audible. The ride quality rivals or exceeds European luxury vehicles in this segment.

Fuel economy is not the Navigator's strong suit. Our tester achieved 13.5L/100km combined (15.6 city / 10.8 highway) during our week of mixed driving, which is remarkably close to the official ratings of 13.5L/100km combined. For a vehicle of this size and weight, it's acceptable but certainly not frugal.

When properly equipped with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package (included on our tester), the Navigator can tow up to 8,700 lbs, which is competitive in the segment though not class-leading.

Cargo Space & Storage

The cargo space in the Navigator is generous. Behind the third row, there's 21.6 cubic feet (612 litres) of space - enough for several suitcases or a week's worth of groceries. Fold the third row flat, and capacity expands to 60.8 cubic feet (1,722 litres). Fold both the second and third rows, and you have 107 cubic feet (3,030 litres) of cargo space - enough to move furniture or haul large items.

Small item storage options are excellent throughout the cabin. The door pockets are large and deep. The center console storage is massive, easily accommodating a laptop bag or large purse. The glove compartment is well-sized. There are cup holders throughout the cabin, including heated and cooled holders in the front. Wireless device charging is available in the front console. The second-row center console houses additional USB ports and storage cubbies.

Verdict

The 2025 Lincoln Navigator would impress anyone who values comfort, technology, and presence. For the sticker price of $134,570 CAD as tested, it offers tremendous value in the full-size luxury SUV segment. The exterior is commanding, and the interior is genuinely luxurious with the spa-like Rejuvenate feature and exceptional second-row seats. The 48-inch display is a genuine technological showcase that works as well as it looks.

The Navigator is not without its considerations. Fuel economy is predictably poor, the steering lacks engagement, and the sheer size makes it challenging to maneuver in tight urban environments. But when it comes to delivering a serene, comfortable, luxurious experience for up to seven passengers (eight with optional bench seating), the Navigator is absolutely on target to compete with the best in the class. It may not have the badge prestige of a Range Rover or the performance edge of an Escalade-V, but for buyers seeking quiet luxury and genuine comfort, the Navigator is an excellent choice.

Test Vehicle

2025 Lincoln Navigator Reserve with Jet Appearance Package

MSRP: $134,570 CAD All inclusive (before taxes) as tested

Color: Gray Mist Metallic Tri-Coat