Overview

What's New
Minor changes only for the 2006 Lincoln Navigator, since it received a major refresh in 2005. New on Ultimate trim models are an Elite package that includes 18-inch chrome wheels, a navigation system, High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps, a rear-seat entertainment system, heavy-duty trailer towing package, power running boards, and the THX Certified audio system (originally created for use in movie theaters) that provides excellent audio quality. A few color changes include the addition of Pewter Clearcoat Metallic for the exterior, a Charcoal Black interior, and the option of the Birch Clearcoat Metallic exterior with the Monotone Appearance Package.

Overview
The Navigator full-size luxury sport utility vehicle has been popular since its introduction in 1998, and lays claim to inventing the segment. The Navigator also stands out as the vehicle that first introduced dual-stage air bags, which deploy with less force to help reduce injuries to occupants, as well as the first to have heated and cooled seats. It's also the first to feature power-deployable running boards, power fold-flat third-row seats, and a power-operated lift gate.

Speaking of power, Ford's Triton 5.4L V-8 moves the Navigator down the road with 300 hp and 365 lb.-ft. of torque. Navigator also sports a four-wheel independent suspension, rack-and-pinion steering, and a standard six-speed transmission. In terms of safety, Navigator features standard anti-lock brakes, side-curtain airbags, a tire pressure monitoring system, and AdvanceTrac stability control program with Roll Stability Control, a system that senses a potential rollover and helps to keep the vehicle firmly on the ground.

Elegant interior touches match the cleanly styled exterior. Real American burl walnut, high-quality leather, and light emitting diode (LED) instruments set the interior apart. Available in two- or four-wheel drive, the Navigator has a maximum towing capacity of 8,600 lbs. when properly equipped. Other available features include a navigation system with voice-activation, a rear-seat entertainment system with DVD player, as well as the audiophile-quality THX sound system.

The Competition
There are ten players in the Large Premium Utility segment, but there are several models from the same manufacturer competing against each other. For example, the Cadillac Escalade and the extended-wheelbase ESV are included, as is the Hummer H2 and H2 SUT, as well as the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport from Land Rover. The Lexus LX Series and the Toyota Land Cruiser, which are on the same platform, the Infiniti QX56, and the Lincoln Navigator round out the segment.

According to the J.D. Power and Associates Sales Report,^SM the sales leader in calendar year 2005 is the Cadillac Escalade, with sales of 29,876, followed by the Navigator at 25,844.