The Lincoln Navigator has been around nearly 3 decades, and if you’re wanting one that isn’t new, then this article is for you. We’ll take a closer look at the different generations, and the changes they come with to give you a better idea how they differ.
Key takeaways
- The Navigator took some design cues from other Lincolns that were known for their looks.
- If you want more safety, then the second generation is where you want to start.
- The second generation also saw a handful of features that became standard.
- The third generation saw that introduction to higher end tech that was standard, helping bring the Navigator into the modern era.
First Generation (1998-2002)
The Navigator first hit the road in ‘98 and while it didn’t come with tons of features, it still came with enough to make it worthwhile. This generation came with power driver and front passenger seats, making it easy for you to get comfortable. It also came with keyless entry that makes it easy to get in the vehicle, and 2nd row bucket seats.
Depending on the configuration you find, you can seat with 7 or 8 people, making this the perfect family vehicle. Some models may even have a power moonroof, and a premium audio system that comes with a 6-disc front console-mounted CD-changer.
Throughout this generation, the Navigator didn’t see much change. In 2002, the Navigator saw the addition of heated and cooled seats, making it even more comfortable from before.
Second Generation (2003-2006)
This generation saw changes to the exterior for the first time in its life cycle. The new exterior came with things such as a larger chrome waterfall grille, brighter quad-beam headlights, revised chrome door handles set in color-keyed bezels, and slightly wider running boards. The changes didn’t stop there, the interior also saw some upgrades. For the interior you can find a new instrument panel and dashboard, setting it apart from the current lineup.
2003 saw the addition of optional safety measures in the form of Ford's Safety Canopy side curtain airbags and a tire pressure monitoring system. That wasn’t the only addition for the vehicle as it also saw some changes to its overall convenience. Power running boards were available this year which was the first of its kind. Other additions were power-folding third row seats, and a power liftgate.
2003 also saw some changes to the handling and comfort of the vehicle. This took the form of new steering, and an all-new independent rear suspension. This suspension gave you better handling and greater ride comfort.
Third Generation (2007-2017)
In 2007, the Navigator gained new front and rear fascias, giving it a new look. The front has a split upper and lower chrome grille with integrated fog lights resembling older Lincolns like the 1946–1948 Continental.
2008 saw the removal of a few trim levels which added some new standard features. The standard features included heated and cooled front seats, power-folding third row seats, and a power liftgate.
2009 saw the rearview camera and heated second row seats that are now standard. In 2011 the Navigator featured HD Radio, Sirius TravelLink, and Lincoln SYNC as standard on all trims.
2015 saw a refresh for the Navigator, this came with dashboard panels that feature MyLincoln Touch with Sync as standard which were controlled through an eight-inch touchscreen display in the dash.
Fourth Generation (2018-2024)
Much like other generations before it, this one took some styling inspiration from other Lincoln vehicles. This generation also saw a new body styling as it adopted an aluminum style. The styling nod that the Navigator had come from the 2017 Continental, this included the style of its headlights, taillights, side vents, and its front fascia came with a large rectangular grille.
Summary
The Navigator has seen its fair share of changes throughout its life in Lincoln's effort to continue to be better than before. Come see us here at Jarrett to see what we have!