2007 Lincoln Navigator

Chicago has become the big show for truck introductions in North America, so it was appropriate that Lincoln chose to unveil its new Navigator and Navigator L models here. Riding on an all-new chassis shared with the recently-unveiled Expedtion, it continues Lincoln's tradition of elegant interior styling and plentiful amenities, but puts on a bold new face, which is sure to polarize luxury SUV customers.

Like the 2002 Escalade, the Navigator's nose is a radically new look for this class, featuring a stretched octagonal grille with a thick chrome strip on top, prominent Lincoln logo in the middle, and a matching bumper insert. Though polarizing at the time, the '02 Escalade's grille became an instantly-recognizable symbol for the revitalized Cadillac. Time will tell whether Lincoln's blingy new style will catch on with buyers.

The three-valve modular 5.4-liter V-8 carries over, with 300 horsepower and 365 lbs./ft. of torque matched to a new wide-ratio 6-speed automatic transmission. Unfortunately for Lincoln, this is a significant 103 horsepower and 52 lbs./ft. shy of the new Escalade's substantial output.

Lincoln must by hoping to win over buyers with such features as integrated automatic power running boards, THX-certified audio system, and heated and cooled front seats. The Lincoln's interior is arguably the more stylish of the two, with a clearly different look than the Expedition, whereas the Escalade's dash, while upon close inspection is unique from the Tahoe's, makes an obvious first impression of being closely related. For the first time in the Navigator line, an extended-length version is being offered, to compete with Cadillac's Escalade ESV.

In terms of luxury features, the Lincoln gives up nothing to the Caddy, but in this crowd, bragging rights are everything, and with the Caddy boasting a 400+ horsepower engine and available factory 22s, Lincoln will have a tough time competing in the "mine's bigger" competition. Our suggestion to Lincoln is to drop in a slightly de-tuned version of the Shelby GT 500's blown 5.4 in, for about 450 horse. Then the Lincoln would have no trouble keeping up with the 'Slade, either in the street cred department, or the stoplight races.