New Car Review of the 2004 Lincoln Navigator Full-Size Sport Utility Vehicle.

Description: Full-Size Luxury SUV
Base MSRP Range: $48,725 - $52,275
Invoice Price Range: $42,774 - $45,827

When it was launched as a 1998 product, Lincoln's Navigator originated the class of luxury full-size SUVs. A new design came in 2003 that retained the bold styling of the original as well as its 5.4-liter V8 powertrain, although the revamped version brought more power and torque.

It also carved out more room in the cabin for as many as eight passengers on three tiers with a standard third-row bench that tucks into the cargo floor for a slick disappearing act under power. For added safety, a side curtain-style air bag system called a Safety Canopy came with the new design, and an all-wheel-drive (AWD) model gained a multi-phase Control Trac system to direct engine torque to whichever wheels need it.

There are running boards mounted at the bottom of the four side doors and an air suspension system in place to drop the wagon by an inch in height with engine off and make entry and exit easier for riders. Further, optional power running boards extend or retract with the opening or closing of doors.

Sole powertrain is a 5.4-liter V8 that delivers 300 hp and connects to a four-speed automatic transmission with high-gear lockout switch set as a button on the console shifter stick.

Navigator provides an extensive array of standard features in two variations for 2004 labeled Luxury and Ultimate. The Ultimate edition adds HID headlamps, power to open the rear liftgate, Ford's AdvanceTrac anti-skid gizmo now rigged with Roll Stability Control (RSC), a power moon roof, heated and cooled driver and passenger seats plus power controls for folding the third-row seat into the floor.