Nearly three decades ago, Lincoln entered a new segment when they introduced the first-ever Navigator to the United States in 1998. This vehicle was so successful that it set off a trend, with many other manufacturers rushing to introduce their versions of large, body-on-frame luxury three-row SUVs. Now, for 2025, the segment’s original pioneer is getting a significant makeover. With new styling in the front and rear and a brand-new interior featuring a massive 48-inch curved panoramic display, the 2025 Lincoln Navigator is poised to redefine luxury once again. Today, we’re in Detroit, Michigan, to get an exclusive first look at this impressive vehicle.
The 2025 Navigator: Exterior Design
Six years ago, Lincoln set a new standard with the fourth-generation Navigator. Fast forward to 2025, and the model has received substantial updates that are sure to impress. If you appreciated the new Nautilus, you’ll love the similar aesthetic carried over to Lincoln’s flagship, the Navigator.
The model we’re reviewing is the Black Label version, and it’s a stunner. Dressed in Crystal White exterior paint, the front end is dominated by a bold grille and a new double-line LED light bar that stretches across the headlights, seamlessly integrating with the illuminated Lincoln star.
Moving to the side profile, this is the L version, meaning it comes with an extended wheelbase. Although Lincoln hasn’t released the final specs, we can speculate based on the 2024 model’s dimensions. The wheels are a standout feature—new and exclusive to the Black Label theme, with a satin copper finish on 24-inch wheels. The rest of the profile is enhanced with subtle yet impactful details, such as satin copper accents on the badging and stainless steel finishes that replace much of the chrome from the previous generation.
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Rear Design and Cargo Space
The rear of the 2025 Navigator showcases some of the most significant changes, aligning with Lincoln’s “flight design” philosophy. A new full-length LED light bar, with accentuated wings at the ends, connects the taillights in a sleek, modern fashion.
The Lincoln logo is now set behind a piece of glass, a design cue first seen on the new Nautilus. Additionally, Lincoln’s Pro Trailer Backup Assist, familiar from Ford’s F-150 and Ranger pickups, is now part of the Navigator’s suite of features.
A new split tailgate design makes loading and unloading easier, particularly preventing items from spilling out when the tailgate is opened. The L version is expected to offer cargo space similar to the 2024 model, providing around 35 cubic feet with all seats in place, expanding to 131 cubic feet with all seats folded down.
The Powertrain
Under the hood, the 2025 Navigator retains the powertrain from the 2024 model, which is excellent news. The 3.5L twin-turbocharged V6, part of Ford’s EcoBoost engine family, churns out 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque.
This power is harnessed through a 10-speed automatic transmission, and every Navigator comes standard with full-time all-wheel drive. While fuel economy figures are yet to be released, they’re expected to mirror the 2024 model’s rating of 16/22 mpg. The towing capacity should also remain around 8,300 lbs, consistent with previous models.
Interior Enhancements
The 2025 Navigator’s interior has been meticulously upgraded to exude luxury. The Black Label model features the new “Atmospheric Theme” interior, which includes two-tone Salt Crystal Gray leather seats, copper stitching, and contrast piping.
These seats are not just aesthetically pleasing—they are heated, ventilated, massaging, and feature diamond-quilted perforations designed to mimic the look of precipitation.
The cabin’s centerpiece is a 48-inch curved panoramic display stretching across the dashboard. This digital dash display, akin to what’s found in the new Nautilus, provides a fully digital experience with two 24-inch screens and an 11-inch central control screen. The low dash design ensures that the display doesn’t obstruct your view of the road. Additionally, Lincoln’s BlueCruise hands-free driving system comes standard, including a four-year subscription.
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Second and Third Row Comfort
The second-row Captain’s chairs in the Black Label version are power-adjustable, heated, ventilated, and massaging—nearly matching the luxury of the front seats. A 5.8-inch display allows second-row passengers to control various comfort settings. Rear-seat entertainment has been enhanced with 10.8-inch screens that support streaming services and gaming.
The third row is easily accessible, thanks to the power-adjustable second-row seats. It offers generous space, with approximately 36 inches of legroom, and the seats are heated as well. The Navigator’s independent rear suspension enables a low floor, providing comfortable seating for adults in the third row.
Advanced Technology Features
The 2025 Navigator is loaded with advanced technology, highlighted by Lincoln’s new digital experience infotainment system. This system includes features like interchangeable ambient lighting, a digital scent function, and a rejuvenate setting that creates a calming atmosphere through customizable seat and climate control settings. These innovations solidify the Navigator’s position as a top-tier luxury vehicle, delivering a serene and personalized driving experience.
Final Thoughts
While Lincoln pioneered the large body-on-frame luxury SUV segment nearly 30 years ago, its crosstown rival, the Cadillac Escalade, has often outpaced the Navigator in sales. However, with the 2025 updates, Lincoln has made strategic enhancements that will help the Navigator remain a strong contender.
The refreshed exterior design brings it in line with the new Nautilus, while the interior upgrades elevate it to the status of a world-class luxury vehicle.
Pricing for the 2025 Navigator is still under wraps, but it’s expected to be in the same ballpark as the current model, which starts at around $83,000 and can climb to $110,000 for the Black Label trim. Lincoln has announced that orders for the new model will begin in October 2024, with deliveries expected in spring 2025.
