2021 Lincoln Navigator Review
Price Estimate: $38,500 - $47,988





+298
Great
8.4
out of 10
edmunds TESTED
Overall, we think highly of the 2021 Navigator. A 450-horsepower engine and 10-speed transmission provide athletic speed, while cabin accommodations are at first-class standards. This is Lincoln at its new best.
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2021 Lincoln Navigator Review
Pros
- Lots of cargo room in both the standard and extended-length versions
- Easy-to-use tech interface
- Strong turbocharged V6 has plenty of power for towing
- Long list of optional safety equipment
Cons
- Limited off-road capability
- Too large for some garages
What's new
- A new Special Edition package adds blacked-out exterior trim elements
- Part of the fourth Navigator generation introduced for 2018
Overview

The Lincoln Navigator has been one of our favorite large luxury SUVs ever since its redesign in 2018. Offering a luxurious interior, excellent passenger comfort, many upmarket features and a monstrous 8,700-pound maximum towing capacity, the Navigator can do just about anything you ask of it, and do it in style.
For sale nearby
16 listings
- $42,545fair price$638 above market
- 77,200 miles
- No accidents, 2 owners, personal use only
- 7 Seats, 16 City / 20 Hwy MPG
- Lundeen Brothers Ford (173 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
- Sunroof/Moonroof
Close
Located in Annandale, MN
Lundeen Bros Ford of Annandale is a Family Owned and Operated Dealership. We are the Home of Lifetime Powertrain Warranty. Faith Family Friends and Fo...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
17 Combined MPG (16 City/20 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 5LMJJ2LT0MEL14719
Stock: 17173TA
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 08-18-2025 - $32,888great price$2,165 below market
- 112,911 miles
- No accidents, 1 owner, corporate fleet vehicle
- 7 Seats, 16 City / 20 Hwy MPG
- Jackson Auto East (232 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
- Sunroof/Moonroof
Close
Located in St Paul, MN
VIEW WALK-AROUND VIDEOUsed 2021 Lincoln Navigator L Reserve 4x4 SUV For Sale Near St. Paul, MN This Used 2021 Lincoln Navigator L Reserve 4x4 SUV is f...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: No
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
17 Combined MPG (16 City/20 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 5LMJJ3LT9MEL08181
Stock: 8654
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 08-01-2025
So impressive is the Navigator that we don't shy away from comparing it to more expensive SUVs from Mercedes-Benz and Land Rover. Then there's the Navigator's longtime rival, the Escalade. Redesigned for 2021, the Escalade boasts improved comfort and new technology features. With the revamp, these two domestic luxury utes are more closely matched than they've been in a while. What should you choose? Read our Expert Review to learn more about the Navigator and get our in-depth evaluation.
Edmunds Expert Rating
edmunds TESTED
by the Edmunds Experts
Great
8.4
out of 10
We drove the 2021 Lincoln Navigator on our test track and on real roads. Our Edmunds team conducts rigorous independent vehicle testing, driving 500,000 miles a year.
Performance
8/10
How does the Navigator drive? Considering the size and weight of the Navigator, it's surprisingly good at providing strong performance and stress-free driving. The engine is quick and responsive, the steering is low-effort, and body roll is kept in check when you go around turns. The V6 is plenty strong and gets you up to speed in a hurry. Our test Navigator covered 0-60 mph in just 6.1 seconds. That's moving!
Large vehicles tend to nose-dive or squirm around when you jam on the brakes suddenly, and the Navigator is no exception. That said, braking performance is perfectly adequate for the class. The Navigator also feels composed around town and even on tight roads. We wouldn't go so far as to call it sporty. But for the amount of comfort it provides, it's not the clumsy behemoth you'd expect it to be.
Large vehicles tend to nose-dive or squirm around when you jam on the brakes suddenly, and the Navigator is no exception. That said, braking performance is perfectly adequate for the class. The Navigator also feels composed around town and even on tight roads. We wouldn't go so far as to call it sporty. But for the amount of comfort it provides, it's not the clumsy behemoth you'd expect it to be.
Comfort
8/10
How comfortable is the Navigator? Wind and road noise is pretty minimal, and only a small amount of ambient noise sneaks through. The suspension is great at softening sharp bumps or pavement changes. But on continuously undulating surfaces, there can be a lot of body movement, which borders on uncomfortable.
The front seats have a huge number of adjustments, more than really seem necessary. It takes a while to find a setting you like. But once you do, you'll be sublimely comfortable. The seat heaters and coolers are effective too.
The front seats have a huge number of adjustments, more than really seem necessary. It takes a while to find a setting you like. But once you do, you'll be sublimely comfortable. The seat heaters and coolers are effective too.
Interior
8.5/10
How’s the interior? The Navigator's interior is huge. The large doors, well-placed grab handles and retractable step rails make getting in and out a breeze, while the second row's ability to tilt and slide allows excellent access to the third row. Adjustable pedals and a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel extend the range of driver comfort.
A lot of controls require some time to become familiar with, but ultimately they're easy to use. Visibility is decent for a vehicle this size, but there are still blind spots, mainly at the front due to chunky windshield pillars. Cameras help you maneuver in tight spaces, with the 360-degree camera system particularly helpful.
A lot of controls require some time to become familiar with, but ultimately they're easy to use. Visibility is decent for a vehicle this size, but there are still blind spots, mainly at the front due to chunky windshield pillars. Cameras help you maneuver in tight spaces, with the 360-degree camera system particularly helpful.
Technology
8.5/10
How’s the tech? The Navigator embraces the latest technology, with an excellent infotainment interface, superb sound-system quality, comprehensive driving aids and ample device-charging options. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and an onboard Wi-Fi hotspot are icing on the cake.
We were impressed with the easily configurable, immersive experience offered by the 20-speaker Revel stereo in our test vehicle. A number of driving aids are included as standard equipment including blind-spot detection, lane keeping assist, and forward collision detection with automatic emergency braking. Adaptive cruise control is one of the optional aids. It's well tuned and worth getting if you spend a lot of time in traffic.
We were impressed with the easily configurable, immersive experience offered by the 20-speaker Revel stereo in our test vehicle. A number of driving aids are included as standard equipment including blind-spot detection, lane keeping assist, and forward collision detection with automatic emergency braking. Adaptive cruise control is one of the optional aids. It's well tuned and worth getting if you spend a lot of time in traffic.
Storage
8.5/10
How’s the storage? If it's space you want, it's what you'll get, even without the extended-wheelbase Navigator L model. There's 19.3 cubic feet behind the third row, 57.5 cubes behind the second row, and 103.3 cubes with the rear seats folded. All the rear seats fold flat electronically. The second-row center console sits higher than the seat bottoms, though, which prevents a fully flat load area.
There is also an abundance of in-cabin storage for everyone's personal effects, with tons of cubbies of varying sizes and a deep console bin. The anchors for car seats are slightly tucked away in the seat creases, which make them a little hard to access, but the top tethers are easy to get to and there's plenty of space to fit a rear-facing car seat.
Need to tow something? A properly equipped Navigator can manage up to 8,700 pounds (8,300 pounds if you get the 4WD). This is one of the highest capacities in the large luxury SUV class.
There is also an abundance of in-cabin storage for everyone's personal effects, with tons of cubbies of varying sizes and a deep console bin. The anchors for car seats are slightly tucked away in the seat creases, which make them a little hard to access, but the top tethers are easy to get to and there's plenty of space to fit a rear-facing car seat.
Need to tow something? A properly equipped Navigator can manage up to 8,700 pounds (8,300 pounds if you get the 4WD). This is one of the highest capacities in the large luxury SUV class.
Fuel Economy
7/10
How’s the fuel economy? Based on the EPA estimate of 18 mpg combined (16 city/21 highway), the Navigator should be one of the more efficient vehicles in the class. But we averaged 18.1 mpg over 1,700 miles of mostly highway driving on premium fuel (our high was 20.0 mpg). We saw low figures as well when doing mostly city driving, so we think the EPA figures are likely mildly optimistic for real-world driving.
Value
7.5/10
Is the Navigator a good value? The Navigator looks and feels like it's worth the money, especially from the inside. Design has brought Lincoln a long way. The floating center console, touchscreen arrangement and wrapped dash elevate the Navigator's appeal to new heights. And when compared to others in the segment, the Navigator stands out as a smart choice overall. Considering what you get for the money, the Navigator undercuts the competition.
Lincoln offers a four-year/50,000-mile basic warranty, comparable to other luxury brands, though its six-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty is above average, just like Cadillac's. Owners who opt for the Black Label trim receive a pretty extensive list of benefits and features, including free car washes and vehicle pickup and drop-off for complimentary maintenance covered for four years/50,000 miles. Owners of non-Black Label cars get two years/20,000 miles of free maintenance and six years/70,000 miles of roadside assistance.
Lincoln offers a four-year/50,000-mile basic warranty, comparable to other luxury brands, though its six-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty is above average, just like Cadillac's. Owners who opt for the Black Label trim receive a pretty extensive list of benefits and features, including free car washes and vehicle pickup and drop-off for complimentary maintenance covered for four years/50,000 miles. Owners of non-Black Label cars get two years/20,000 miles of free maintenance and six years/70,000 miles of roadside assistance.
Wildcard
9.5/10
The Navigator is the first vehicle in a long time that's made us excited about the Lincoln brand. It's awesome on many levels. It's comfy, quick and surprisingly stylish. It's not sporty, but no one is really expecting vehicles of this size to be. There's road presence without being overly garish.
2021 Lincoln Navigator trim level differences
The Lincoln Navigator is available in three trims levels: Base, Reserve and Black Label. Each is powered by a turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 (450 horsepower, 510 lb-ft of torque) and comes with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Which Navigator trim does Edmunds recommend?
The base Navigator is hard to pass up, but we think a handful of features on the Reserve make it worth the extra money. For example, the surround-view parking camera system and adaptive cruise control are very useful add-ons. There's also a giant panoramic sunroof standard on this trim level. You'll also need to opt for the Reserve if you want to unlock the Navigator's maximum towing capacity via the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow package.
Compare 2021 Lincoln Navigator trim levels
Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart

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Cost to Drive
Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota
$213/mo for Navigator Base
Navigator Base
vs
$232/mo
Avg. Large SUV
Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
3.5 out of 5 stars3.5/5Above Average
#6 out of 20 among Luxury Fullsize SUVs
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
$671/yr
vs. $735/yr
for Average Luxury Fullsize SUV
for Average Luxury Fullsize SUV
Frequency
1.57x/yr
vs. 1.83x/yr
for Average Luxury Fullsize SUV
for Average Luxury Fullsize SUV
Severity
11.5%
vs. 16.5%
for Average Luxury Fullsize SUV
for Average Luxury Fullsize SUV
powered by RepairPal
Lincoln Navigator Owner Reviews
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
Beautiful piece of junk
1 out of 5 starsLadyCarlover, 11/04/2020
2020 Lincoln Navigator Black Label 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl Turbo 10A)
After years of Navigators I became bored and bought a few different Suv's, until the new Navigator was announced. I ordered one immediately! Within the first month I knew something was really off about the car and the way it drove. I took it back to the dealer twice to only be told noting was wrong. Fast forward a year and the transmission totally fails and had to be replaced, only they … didn't totally replace it, they only did half. A month later it failed again, as did the engine. Now bow have been replaced and it still doesn't run well. It has a constant vibration that it never had before the total overhaul under the hood. Lincoln has a major problem with service. They may have built the best looking SUV out there, but if it doesn't run properly and they treat you horrible when you need service, it just isn't worth it. Even with the Black Label the service is embarrassing. They will need to step it up if they want to compete with the Escalade, Range Rovers, etc... So, in short I'd look elsewhere if you are contemplating this vehicle, I've had just about every luxury SUV out there and this one was by far the worst!
Broken and Confused
1 out of 5 starsMike K, 03/17/2021
2020 Lincoln Navigator Black Label 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl Turbo 10A)
During the pandemic we bought a Motorhome and wanted to flat tow a vehicle behind it. The Navigator was a great option but I was really concerned about the reliability.
4 months later I have had the BlackLabel in the sho- for more than 15days and there are still several issues. The communication typically takes 24-48 hour from the dealership and more than 30days the BlackLabel … Concierge.
Issues to date; ~6,000miles
-Windshield wipers squeak (resolved)
-Seat squeaks(replacing the entire seat) waiting 2 weeks at this point.
-Navigation goes black and shuts off (Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) that is designed to address the concerns related to your SYNC screen and Phone As A Key feature. That bulletin reference is TSB 20-2363 - this helped but did not resolve the known issue)
-the car smells like it is burning
-several other items that seem to be replaced to the navigation like blue tooth issues, windshield wipers going off with for no reason, volume controls not working, etc.
$80000 piece of junk
2 out of 5 starsMike, 12/30/2020
2020 Lincoln Navigator Reserve 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl Turbo 10A)
Traded an Infinti for a Navigator what a mistake. 3 months in tailgate lift wouldn't work. Had to replace both actuators. Today couldn't unlock the doors with either key fob. 5 months old with less than 10000 miles. For this amount of money that should not be the case. Will never by another.
Decent Vehicle, Terrible Service and Support
1 out of 5 starsTim F, 04/07/2021
2021 Lincoln Navigator L Reserve 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl Turbo 10A)
All the hype of owning a Lincoln and the service that comes with it falls through the cracks the moment you need help.
Lincoln offers to pick up your car for service to their nearest dealer. True? No, it is not true (at least in my case and I live in a populated 4 million resident metro).
Lincoln stands behind their cars with great service. True? No, it is not true. Called in … for service a few months ago and they said I would have to wait 6 MONTHS to be seen to fix a faulty rear seat entertainment screen on a brand new Navigator.
I called Lincoln for help and they said to talk to their internal 'Lincoln Play' team. The call transfers straight to voicemail for some 3rd party company that makes the screen. Did they return my call? Nope. Never. Not once.
A few months passed. I called Lincoln again for help. They said they would call the dealer. They called the dealer and the dealer said it would be a month and a half to be seen now and no, they would not pick up my vehicle as advertised.
They are now calling local Ford dealers to see if they can help with some measure of hope that a Ford service department can figure out a Lincoln proprietary issue. I appreciate the willingness for the Lincoln agent to help, but his hands are tied by their dealer network not being willing to provide any level of reasonable support.
Think I'm wrong? Give your local Lincoln service team a call first before you buy from them and ask how long it will take to be seen for your Lincoln. It might change your perspective on the service promised to you.
Currently, I am still waiting for support on both a seat belt issue that keeps unlocking itself and a rear entertainment system that only occasionally works.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2021 Lincoln Navigator, so we've included reviews for other years of the Navigator since its last redesign.
2021 Navigator Highlights
Base
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $76,705 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 18 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $213/month |
Seating | 7 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 19.3 cu.ft. |
rear wheel drive | |
Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Safety
Our experts like the Navigator models:
- Surround-View Camera
- Provides a top-down view of the car on the center screen to help you navigate tight spaces.
- MyKey
- Allows owners to specify speed limits and stereo volume limits for secondary drivers (think: teenagers and valets).
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Adaptive cruise control follows at a set distance, and collision mitigation can bring the car to a complete stop in emergencies.
NHTSA Overall Rating
5 out of 5 starsThe National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverall5 / 5
- Side Barrier RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront Seat5 / 5Back Seat5 / 5
- RolloverRollover3 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover20.8%
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