Based in the Motor City, Carl Anthony is the Automotive Lead at How-to-Geek and the host of AutoVision News Radio, a podcast that focuses on future vehicle technology, including next-generation ADAS innovations, electrification, and software-defined cars.
A broadcaster by nature, he has appeared on popular podcasts and radio shows, including Wrench Nation, Cars Yeah, The Car Doctor, and Digital PR Explained. Carl’s frequent appearances on MotorMouth Radio (WHPC 90.3 FM) over the last decade have made him a trusted resource for car enthusiasts, while his hosting of the AutoSens Insights series continues to spotlight the latest automotive technologies.
Prior roles include serving as a new vehicle launch and dealer trainer for Ford, Honda, Mercedes-Benz, and Volvo. Carl was a senior product specialist on Chevy’s National Truck Team, an experiential marketing program that travels the United States, and a respected member of the FCA (now Stellantis) national auto show team, where he served as the resident expert for consumers on the Dodge Charger and Challenger.
Before the automotive industry, Carl was a disc jockey, producer, and programmer at several popular Midwest radio stations, including KIWR, KEZO, KJAN, and KELO-FM. He is a graduate of Iowa Western Community College in Council Bluffs, where he dual-majored in the Electronic Media studies program, earning an Associate of Applied Sciences degree in both radio and television broadcasting.
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The Lincoln Navigator, one of the early originals in the full-size luxury SUV category, is entering a new era. Nearly three decades after helping establish the segment alongside the Cadillac Escalade, the 2026 Navigator is showing off a bold new exterior, a capable powertrain, and a tech-forward interior that Lincoln is positioning as a “sanctuary on wheels.”
These updates follow the Navigator’s extensive redesign for the 2025 model year, and while there is a lot to like, expect to pay a premium for Lincoln’s luxury hauler that can seat up to eight. Starting MSRP for the 2026 Navigator Premiere is around $92,000, excluding destination and options. Reserve and Black Label models start at around $102,000 and $120,000, respectively.
Long wheelbase models, designated as “L” variants, add 11 additional inches of length and up to 14.5 cubic feet of extra cargo space. That additional length also comes with a price bump.
The chart below shows the starting MSRP for the 2026 Lincoln Navigator, excluding destination:
|
Trim Level |
Standard Wheelbase Starting MSRP |
Long Wheelbase Starting MSRP |
|
Premiere |
$91,995 |
$94,995 |
|
Reserve |
$101,995 |
$104,995 |
|
Black Label |
$119,525 |
$122,525 |
What’s new for 2026
Connectivity and hands-free driving
The biggest news for 2026 is the reintroduction of the Premiere trim. By bringing back this entry-level option, Lincoln has created a more accessible entry point for buyers who want core Navigator tech without opting for the Reserve or Black Label packages.
Other notable 2026 updates include:
- More Digital Tech: The Lincoln Connectivity Package, which includes four years of unlimited Wi-Fi, streaming, and over-the-air updates, is now standard equipment across all trim levels. The package also includes Google apps and services like Maps, Play, and Assistant.
- Enhanced BlueCruise: Version 1.5 of Lincoln’s hands-free highway driving system now includes an automated Lane Change Assist feature with an attentive driver. Simply tapping the turn signal when the path is clear allows the Navigator to execute the maneuver automatically.
- Expanded Black Label Availability: Buyers can now configure the ultra-luxurious Black Label trim on standard-wheelbase models, offering more flexibility for those who want top-tier opulence without the footprint of the long-wheelbase “L” variant.
- Added Convenience: A hands-free power liftgate is now standard on all trim levels.
- Base Trim Engine
-
3.5L V6 ICE
- Base Trim Transmission
-
10-speed automatic
- Base Trim Drivetrain
-
Four-Wheel Drive
Exterior design language
Split Gate functionality for family outings
True to its roots, the 2026 Navigator leans on its modern, sophisticated aesthetic. The front fascia is dominated by a signature grille bisected by an illuminated lightbar that can perform a sequential dance when approaching with the key. This motif is mirrored at the rear with full-width taillamps and laser-etched stars, among the many signatures that make the Navigator unique.
Meanwhile, satin aluminum accents have replaced traditional chrome, giving Lincoln’s large SUV a cleaner, contemporary profile.
Buyers wanting a bit more edge can check the box for the Jet Appearance Package, which adds blacked-out exterior trim and 22-inch high-gloss Ebony wheels. Lincoln is also offering 24-inch wheels in high-gloss Ebony or Luster Nickel for the first time on a Navigator.
It’s not all about looks, however, as the Split Gate offers plenty of functionality for any number of family activities, from picnics to fireworks. The top three-quarters work like any traditional power liftgate, while the bottom quarter drops like a conventional tailgate with a 500 lbs. weight capacity. An available cargo management system can serve as either a shelf or a table with a 35 lbs. capacity.
Nexar Beam GPS Dash Cam
- Connection
-
Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
- Security
-
24H Parking Mode
This tiny Nexar dash cam sits comfortably behind your rear-view mirror and captures footage in 1080p. It also features GPS for geo-tagging videos.
- Field of View
-
135 Degrees
Enter the “third space”
Special Rejuvenate sessions for owners
Lincoln is positioning the Navigator as a “third space,” often translated in automotive industry parlance as the area between home and work. It’s also a diplomatic way to say we spend too much time in traffic, but Lincoln’s take here is that the experience might as well be enjoyable if we are stuck commuting. And this is where the “spa on wheels” inspiration comes from.
The Rejuvenate system, which guides owners through a relaxation session lasting between five and 10 minutes, is standard for the 2026 Navigator. Accessed through the infotainment system, Rejuvenate sessions make the driver’s seat recline and massage while the steering wheel moves away. Calming visuals, such as a waterfall or Aurora Borealis lighting, are projected across the panoramic dashboard display, along with relaxing sounds and fragrances.
According to Lincoln, the Rejuvenate sessions are ideal after a hard day or when needing to pull over at a rest stop on a long trip.
In a similar vein, Lincoln and Calm have jointly developed an in-vehicle app called Elevated Journey. The app features guided audio content curated to support well-being and mindfulness while driving, with sessions narrated by author and meditation teacher Jeff Warren. As described by Lincoln, Warren encourages owners to stay focused on the road through each session while also helping them feel more refreshed and inspired.
Complementing the rolling spa mantra is Lincoln’s Digital Experience. At the center is a massive 48-inch panoramic screen that spans the instrument panel, putting navigation, media, and vehicle data directly into the driver’s line of sight. An 11.1-inch center touchscreen serves as the primary control interface.
The system runs on native Google integration, meaning Google Assistant, Google Maps, and the Google Play Store are standard. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also standard.
The immersive, panoramic display enhances the horizontal lines in the Navigator cabin, creating a sense of wrapping around you. Throughout the design process, we carefully considered the harmony between our design principles, user interface, and connected experiences, ensuring they seamlessly work together to offer a reimagined experience for our clients. ~ Ryan Niemiec, interior design chief, Lincoln.
Three rows of creature comforts
L models provide maximum space
The 2026 Lincoln Navigator can accommodate up to eight passengers. Interior color arrays include Black Onyx, Medium Light Space Gray, and Hot Chocolate. Here is a quick look at the seating layouts:
- Front Row: Drivers enjoy 24-way power-adjustable seats (upgraded to 30-way power in Black Label models), while front passengers get 22-way power seats. Both are heated, ventilated, and offer massage functions.
- Second Row: The front-row-style comfort continues here with available power-adjustable, heated, ventilated, and massaging captain’s chairs.
- Third Row: The 40/20/40 folding power bench is standard. Heated seats are available to ensure third-row passengers aren’t forgotten on a cold morning.
|
Capacity |
Navigator |
Navigator L |
|
Passenger volume |
172.1 cu. ft. |
172.1 cu. ft. |
|
Cargo volume behind first row |
107.0 cu. ft. |
121.6 cu. ft. |
|
Cargo volume behind second row |
60.8 cu. ft. |
75.4 cu. ft. |
|
Cargo volume behind second row (seats full forward) |
69.9 cu. ft. |
84.5 cu. ft. |
|
Cargo volume behind third row |
21.6 cu. ft. |
36.1 cu. ft. |
|
Cargo volume behind third row (seats full upright) |
22.9 cu. ft. |
37.4 cu. ft. |
Powertrain and drive modes
Towing package available
Under the hood, the 2026 Navigator stays the course with a proven performer from the Ford engine library, a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 that delivers 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft. of torque. It is paired with a 10-speed automatic and a four-wheel drive system.
Drive modes include Conserve (i.e., eco), Deep Conditions (i.e., snow), Excite (i.e., sport), Normal, Slippery, and Slow Climb (i.e., great band name). Slow Climb is only available with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package, which gives the Navigator a max towing capacity of 8,700 lbs.
Every 2026 Navigator comes from the factory with a four-year, 50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a six-year, 70,000-mile powertrain warranty. The 2026 Lincoln Navigator has a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA.
One of the best large luxury SUVs today
The 2025 redesign of its flagship Navigator was a significant undertaking for Lincoln, and the 2026 model is all the better for it. By reintroducing the Premiere trim for 2026, offering a long-wheelbase variant, and making relaxation tech standard, Lincoln has positioned the Navigator as the ultimate large luxury SUV.
Naturally, Lincoln has strong competition in this space, from its longtime rival, the Cadillac Escalade, to newer players like the Infiniti QX80, which also underwent a comprehensive redesign in 2025.
However, for buyers in this class of vehicles who want a powerful engine, an expansive tech and connectivity suite, and a modern exterior look, it’s hard to argue with the Navigator.