The Navigator is easy to handle for a big truck. It has superb outward visibility, and its speed-sensitive, variable-assist power steering keeps steering effort down to a reasonable level. Surprisingly, Navigator is slightly shorter than Lincoln's own Town Car. Still, the Navigator 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.The 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, Navigator does not lean unduly, nor does the front end dive excessively under hard braking. The Ford Expedition seems to handle a little better, however; the Ford feels more connected to the road, with more feedback through the steering and the suspension. The Navigator doesn't seem to offer as much feedback as the new Chevrolet Suburban, either. Though reasonably quiet, the Navigator is not silent on the road. The engine roars like truck engine. Wind and tire-tread noise are evident. Fortunately, our Navigator was equipped with an Alpine audio system ($580) that automatically adjusts the volume as speed increases. Performance is a Navigator strength. Acceleration is good, even with a full load of passengers on board. Two-wheel-drive Navigators can pull a trailer weighing up to 8800 pounds. This big Lincoln has a substantial thirst for fuel, however, with an EPA-rated 12/17-mpg city/highway. Four-wheel-drive Navigators ride an inch higher than the 2WD version, and are equipped with a four-corner load leveling system, which uses compressed air to compensate for varying loads while improving ride quality. 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 select between full-time four-wheel drive (good for changing weather conditions), part-time four-wheel drive (best for serious off-road driving), and low-range four-wheel drive (best for really rugged terrain). 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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