The Navigator is, despite its size, easier to handle than you might expect. It is slightly shorter than the Town Car, has superb outward visibility, and its speed-sensitive variable-assist power steering works in the driver's favor by keeping steering effort down to a reasonable level. Still, it is a truck, and it isn't as easy to handle as a Town Car or any other sedan. Extra care and attention is required when maneuvering in close-quarters. The high seating position and light steering isolates the driver from the road. It doesn't seem to offer the feedback of a Chevy Suburban.Brake pedal feel is light, yet precise. The ride quality is good, though it is not as soft as that of a traditional family sedan or wagon. An advantage of the Navigator's long wheelbase is a resistance to pitching over freeway expansion joints and other irregularities. When driven on twisty roads, the Navigator does not lean unduly in corners, nor does the front end dive excessively under hard braking. The Ford Expedition seems to handle a better, however; it feels more connected to the road, with more feedback through the steering and the suspension. Though reasonably quiet, the Navigator is not silent on the road. The engine roars like truck engine. Wind and tire-tread noise is evident. Fortunately, the Navigator was equipped with an Alpine audio system ($570) that automatically adjusts the volume as speed increases. Performance is a Navigator strength. Horsepower has been increased significantly this year, though torque is up only slightly. Acceleration is good, even with a full load of passengers on board. Two-wheel-drive Navigators can pull a trailer weighing up to 8100 pounds. This big Lincoln has a substantial thirst for fuel and fuel efficiency has dropped for 2000 to an EPA-rated 12/17-mpg city/highway. Four-wheel-drive Navigators are equipped with a four-corner load leveling system, which uses compressed air to compensate for varying loads while improving ride quality. Built into the system is a one-inch increase in ride height. When parked, the system can make the Navigator kneel down to lower the step-in height, thus making getting in and out of the vehicle easier. A simpler rear-only system is standard on two-wheel drive models. The Navigator is not a great off-road vehicle, but if narrow trails and serious rock-climbing are avoided, occasional forays off the beaten path can be undertaken without fear of being left stranded. By simply turning a rotary knob on the dashboard, the driver can choose between part-time four-wheel drive (best for off-road), full-time four-wheel drive (good for changing weather conditions) and low-range four-wheel drive (best for serious off-road). The driver can switch between the first two modes at will, but must bring the Navigator to a halt before engaging low range.
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