Ford's top SUV costs $113,000 with a 48-inch screen

Ford’s Lincoln division has positioned its 2026 Navigator as a direct competitor to the Cadillac Escalade, raising the price point and upgrading the interior to match premium rivals. The vehicle aims to capture buyers seeking a high-end American experience, differentiating itself from Ford’s mass-market truck and SUV lines.

The Reserve 4x4 model, tested in Gray Mist Metallic paint, lists at $101,995 before options. The specific vehicle evaluated by Grasso's Garage carried a final price of $112,985. This positioning places the Navigator firmly in the upper tier of the full-size luxury SUV segment, where comfort and technology drive purchasing decisions.

Under the hood, the Navigator retains its 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine. This unit produces 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. Power is managed by a 10-speed automatic transmission. The powertrain is standard with four-wheel drive, a configuration that supports the vehicle's weight and off-road capability claims.

The most notable change for 2026 is a complete interior overhaul centered on a 48-inch panoramic display. This screen spans the entire width of the dashboard and functions as a head-up display. Lincoln includes front massaging seats, dual-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof as part of the standard equipment. The cabin design targets the comfort of the Escalade while emphasizing modern tech integration.

Standard equipment includes four years of BlueCruise hands-free highway driving technology. The reviewer noted the system was easy to use during highway segments. On the road, the vehicle exhibited a smooth ride over paved surfaces, while the truck-based platform provided rigidity on winding, lower-speed roads.

Fuel efficiency for the tested model was recorded at 15 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway. The combined test figure stood at 18.8 mpg. The vehicle rides on 22-inch aluminum alloy wheels and features upgraded chrome exterior accents.

The 2026 Navigator represents a strategic shift for Lincoln, focusing on high-margin luxury sales rather than volume. By offering a $112,985 vehicle with a 48-inch display and 440 horsepower, Ford targets families and individuals willing to pay a premium for space and technology. The model competes directly with established luxury brands in the full-size segment.