2008 Lincoln Navigator L

The Navigator L is an extended wheelbase version of the Navigator full size luxury SUV; comparable to the Cadillac Escalade ESV, the Navigator L was launched in 2007 and is mechanically identical to the extended wheelbase Ford Expedition. The enormous vehicle is 14.7 inches longer than the standard Navigator, with the extra length going to cargo space and the third row seats, which are now roomy enough to hold six footers.

The Navigator L is powered by an iron-block 5.4 liter V8 that produces 300 horsepower and 365 lb.-feet of torque and feels underwhelming even in the standard size Navigator; in the L, with its 6000+ pound curb weight, its best to plan out passing maneuvers ahead of time. Thankfully, the old 4-speed automatic was deep sixed for a modern 6-speed unit that does its best to maximize what power there is and provides smooth shifts; towing capacity is a heroic 8800 pounds, although that's still less than the 9700 a far less costly Suburban can lug. The Navigator L comes standard with rear-wheel drive, while four-wheel drive is a $3,000 option.

The Navigator L is best appreciated from one of its seven passenger seats, where occupants are coddled with standard leather seats (heated and cooled in the front row), genuine wood trim, a 14 speaker (!) 600 watt sound system with a 6 disc in-dash CD changer, and enough room due to space-saving rear independent suspension for occupants to be comfortable no matter where they sit. Being a passenger also relieves one of the duty to park the massive 18 and a half foot vehicle.

Several option packages can be specified on the Navigator L; the Elite package include a touch screen DVD-based navigation system, a rear seat DVD entertainment system with an eight inch screen, a power moonroof, and a reverse camera system. The limited edition 'monochrome' package features a unique chrome grille, ebony wood trim, and special interior trimmings, while a Premium Leather seating package is comprised of upgraded quality leather and contrasting stitching.

Standard safety features on the Navigator L include dual front airbags as well as side curtain airbags that reach from the 1st to the 3rd row. Passive safety features intended to prevent a collision from occurring include an Advancetrac stability control system with Roll Stability Control as well as electronic traction control.