Used Lincoln Navigator Buying Guide
The Lincoln Navigator is Lincoln's full-size, three-row luxury SUV, built around a twin-turbocharged 3.5L V6 and offered in two lengths: the Navigator and the longer Navigator L. This guide covers Navigator model years from 2020 forward, including the all-new 2025 redesign, so you can match a used Navigator to your family and your trailer. Dennis Sneed Ford in Gower, Missouri, about 45 minutes north of Kansas City, buys late-model Lincolns directly from Ford every year, which keeps late-model Navigators on our lot.
Used Lincoln Navigator: Key Takeaways
- Every Navigator from 2020 forward uses a twin-turbocharged 3.5L V6. On 2025 and 2027 models, Lincoln rates it at 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel.
- The 2025 Navigator was all-new, with a 48-inch panoramic display, the Lincoln Split Gate, and standard BlueCruise hands-free highway driving.
- The Navigator L is 11.9 inches longer than the standard Navigator, with more room behind the third row.
- With the Class IV Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package, a properly equipped Navigator is rated to tow up to 8,700 lb. The exact rating depends on model year, length, and drivetrain.
- Dennis Sneed Ford is a Ford dealership that buys 1,100+ late-model Ford and Lincoln vehicles directly from Ford each year.
What is the Lincoln Navigator?
The Lincoln Navigator is a full-size, three-row luxury SUV from Lincoln, the luxury brand of Ford Motor Company. Every Navigator from 2020 forward uses a twin-turbocharged 3.5L V6 and comes in two lengths: the Navigator and the extended-length Navigator L.
The Navigator is Lincoln's full-size SUV, sitting above the midsize three-row Lincoln Aviator. It is aimed at families who need full-size third-row room, full-size cargo space, and real trailer capability in one vehicle.
If you are still deciding between the two Lincoln three-rows, our used Lincoln Aviator buying guide covers the midsize option year by year.
What is the difference between the Navigator and the Navigator L?
The Navigator L is the extended-length version of the Navigator. On 2026 models, Lincoln lists the Navigator at 210 inches long on a 122.5-inch wheelbase and the Navigator L at 221.9 inches long on a 131.5-inch wheelbase. The extra length adds cargo space behind the third row.
| 2026 specification | Navigator | Navigator L |
|---|---|---|
| Overall length | 210 in | 221.9 in |
| Wheelbase | 122.5 in | 131.5 in |
| Cargo behind third row | 21.6 cu ft | 36.1 cu ft |
| Cargo behind second row | 60.8 cu ft | 75.4 cu ft |
| Cargo behind first row | 107 cu ft | 121.6 cu ft |
| Seating (standard / maximum) | 7 / 8 | 7 / 8 |
Both lengths seat seven as standard and up to eight. Choose the Navigator L if you regularly fill the third row and still need to carry luggage, sports gear, or a stroller behind it. Choose the standard Navigator if garage space and parking matter more than maximum cargo room.
Which Lincoln Navigator model years are there, and what changed?
This guide covers 2020 through 2027 Navigators. The 2020 through 2024 models belong to the previous generation, and the 2025 Navigator was all-new. For 2027, Lincoln lists 4x2 as standard with 4x4 optional.
| Model year | Generation | Drivetrains | What to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | Previous generation | 4x2 and 4x4 | Highest towing rating is on the standard-length 4x2 |
| 2021 | Previous generation | 4x2 and 4x4 | Same tow ratings as 2020 |
| 2022 | Previous generation | 4x2 and 4x4 | Same tow ratings as 2020 |
| 2023 | Previous generation | 4x2 and 4x4 | Same tow ratings as 2020 |
| 2024 | Previous generation | 4x4 tow ratings listed | Final year of the previous generation |
| 2025 | All-new | 4x4 tow ratings listed | 48-inch panoramic display, Lincoln Split Gate, BlueCruise standard |
| 2026 | Current generation | 4x4 standard | Premiere, Reserve, and Black Label trims |
| 2027 | Current generation | 4x2 standard, 4x4 optional | Lincoln's current model year |
Equipment varies by vehicle. Confirm the drivetrain, length, and installed packages on any specific Navigator by VIN.
What changed with the all-new 2025 Lincoln Navigator?
The 2025 Lincoln Navigator was all-new. It added a 48-inch panoramic display that spans the instrument panel, the class-exclusive Lincoln Split Gate, an available Cargo Tailgate Manager on a 500-pound-capacity tailgate, and standard BlueCruise hands-free highway driving.
The Split Gate gives easier access to the cargo area, and the available Cargo Tailgate Manager creates a shelf for multi-level cargo storage. On the 2025 Navigator, the third row is a 40/20/40 folding bench.
Lincoln included four years of BlueCruise access from the original vehicle purchase on 2025 models, so ask how much of that term remains on any specific used Navigator.
How much can a Lincoln Navigator tow?
A properly equipped Lincoln Navigator tows up to 8,700 lb with the Class IV Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package. On 2020 through 2023 models, that 8,700 lb maximum applies to the standard-length Navigator 4x2. On 2025 and 2026 models, both the Navigator and Navigator L 4x4 are rated at 8,700 lb, or slightly less with 24-inch wheels.
| Model years | Navigator 4x2 | Navigator 4x4 | Navigator L 4x2 | Navigator L 4x4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 to 2023 | 8,700 lb | 8,300 lb | 8,400 lb | 8,100 lb |
| 2024 | Not listed | 8,300 lb | Not listed | 8,100 lb |
| 2025 to 2026 | Not listed | 8,700 lb (8,500 lb with 24-inch wheels) | Not listed | 8,700 lb (8,400 lb with 24-inch wheels) |
Maximum ratings require the Class IV Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package and a properly equipped vehicle. Lincoln notes that maximum loaded trailer weight requires a weight-distributing hitch. Actual capacity varies with cargo, passengers, and installed equipment.
The package matters more than the trim. Without the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package, a Navigator's rating is lower, so confirm the package on the exact vehicle by VIN before you hook up a camper or a boat.
What engine does the Lincoln Navigator have?
Every Lincoln Navigator from 2020 forward uses a twin-turbocharged 3.5L V6. On 2025 and 2027 models, Lincoln rates it at 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel. 2026 and newer models pair it with a 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission.
Lincoln's horsepower and torque ratings are based on premium fuel. Lincoln's current guidance lists 87-octane regular unleaded as the minimum, with 91 octane or higher recommended. For the exact recommendation on a specific model year, check that vehicle's owner's manual.
Which used Lincoln Navigator year is the best fit?
The best used Navigator year depends on your priorities. Choose a 2025 or newer model for the all-new design, the 48-inch display, and standard BlueCruise. Choose a 2020 through 2023 standard-length 4x2 with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package for the highest towing rating in the previous generation.
Choose a 2025 or newer for the latest design
The 2025 redesign brought the 48-inch panoramic display, the Lincoln Split Gate, and standard BlueCruise. On 2025 and 2026 models, both lengths are rated at 8,700 lb with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package, or slightly less with 24-inch wheels.
Choose a 2020 through 2023 if you want 4x2 or the previous-generation design
These model years offer both 4x2 and 4x4. The standard-length 4x2 with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package carries an 8,700 lb rating.
Choose a Navigator L if your third row is always full
The extended-length Navigator L adds 11.9 inches of overall length. On 2026 models, that means 36.1 cubic feet behind the third row versus 21.6 in the standard Navigator.
Why do Kansas City buyers shop for a used Navigator in Gower?
Dennis Sneed Ford is one of the Top 5 Ford remarketing dealers in the country, buying 1,100+ late-model Ford and Lincoln vehicles directly from Ford each year. That volume puts late-model Lincolns, including Navigators, on one lot about 45 minutes north of Kansas City on US-169.
Dennis Sneed Ford is a Ford dealership, not a Lincoln franchise. Our Lincolns come to us through Ford's own remarketing channel, typically as late-model off-lease or executive vehicles. Roughly 60% of our business comes from the Kansas City metro, and St. Joseph shoppers are roughly 30 minutes north of us via US-169.
Shopping a used Lincoln at a Ford store raises fair questions about certification and coverage. The Kansas City used Lincoln SUV and sedan guide walks through those options.
More Lincoln research from Dennis Sneed Ford
Used Lincoln Aviator Buying Guide
Every Aviator model year from 2020 forward, with engines, towing, and room.
Read nowLincoln Navigator vs. Ford Expedition
Two full-size three-row SUVs compared on power, towing, length, and features.
Read nowLincoln Aviator vs. Lincoln Navigator
Midsize or full-size? Size, towing, power, and third-row room side by side.
30 years. Family-owned. Ford Credit Partners in Quality.
- Top 5 Ford remarketing dealer: we purchase 1,100+ late-model Ford and Lincoln vehicles directly from Ford each year.
- Ford Credit Partners in Quality: one of roughly 111 dealers nationally recognized for the highest customer satisfaction and loyalty.
- Family-owned for 30 years: a family-owned Ford dealership in Gower, MO, serving Kansas City, St. Joseph, and northwest Missouri.
Where is Dennis Sneed Ford?
Dennis Sneed Ford is at 1046 S.W. Highway 169, Gower, MO 64454, about 45 minutes north of Kansas City and roughly 30 minutes south of St. Joseph via US-169. Call sales at 816-409-1975.
Because used inventory changes often, call ahead to confirm a specific Navigator is still available before you make the drive.
Used Lincoln Navigator FAQ
How much can a used Lincoln Navigator tow?
With the Class IV Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package, a properly equipped Navigator is rated up to 8,700 lb. On 2020 through 2023 models, the 8,700 lb rating applies to the standard-length Navigator 4x2. On 2025 and 2026 models, both the Navigator and Navigator L 4x4 are rated at 8,700 lb, or slightly less with 24-inch wheels. Confirm the package on a specific vehicle by VIN.
How much longer is the Navigator L than the Navigator?
On 2026 models, the Navigator L is 221.9 inches long versus 210 inches for the standard Navigator, a difference of 11.9 inches. Its wheelbase is 131.5 inches versus 122.5 inches, and cargo space behind the third row grows from 21.6 to 36.1 cubic feet.
How many people does a Lincoln Navigator seat?
On 2026 models, both the Navigator and Navigator L seat seven as standard and up to eight. Seating on a specific used Navigator depends on its second-row configuration.
What engine is in the Lincoln Navigator?
Every Lincoln Navigator from 2020 forward uses a twin-turbocharged 3.5L V6. On 2025 and 2027 models, Lincoln rates it at 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel.
When was the Lincoln Navigator redesigned?
The Lincoln Navigator was all-new for the 2025 model year. The redesign added a 48-inch panoramic display, the class-exclusive Lincoln Split Gate, and standard BlueCruise hands-free highway driving. 2020 through 2024 Navigators belong to the previous generation.
Does the Lincoln Navigator have BlueCruise?
BlueCruise hands-free highway driving is standard on the 2025 and newer Navigator. Lincoln included four years of BlueCruise access from the original vehicle purchase on 2025 models, so ask how much of that term remains on a specific vehicle.
Is Dennis Sneed Ford a Lincoln dealership?
No. Dennis Sneed Ford is a family-owned Ford dealership in Gower, Missouri. As one of the Top 5 Ford remarketing dealers in the country, we buy 1,100+ late-model Ford and Lincoln vehicles directly from Ford each year, so we carry late-model used Lincoln Navigators and other Lincoln models.
How far is Dennis Sneed Ford from Kansas City?
Dennis Sneed Ford is about 45 minutes north of downtown Kansas City on US-169, at 1046 S.W. Highway 169 in Gower, Missouri. It is roughly 30 minutes south of St. Joseph via US-169.
Specifications are based on manufacturer information for each model year and vary by length, drivetrain, wheel size, and installed equipment. Features and ratings on a specific used vehicle should be confirmed by VIN with our sales team. Towing ratings assume a properly equipped vehicle with the required tow package. BlueCruise availability and service plan terms vary by vehicle. Dennis Sneed Ford is a Ford dealership and is not a Lincoln franchise. All vehicles are subject to prior sale.