TOP OF THE FOOD CHAIN

TOP OF THE FOOD CHAIN By Harold Osmer

Lincoln's Navigator resides near the top of the heap when it comes to SUVs. It darn well might be the top, depending on your criteria. But if you want something large, comfortable, impressive, stable, roomy, versatile, capable of carrying seven passengers, and wanting for not much, put the Navigator at the top of your list.

The standard Navigator package includes a 300 horsepower 5.4-liter overhead cam Triton V-8, coupled to a CVT six-speed automatic overdrive transmission. Power comes on smoothly and you'll have to be paying close attention to detect any gear shifts. Lincoln's Control Trac® four-wheel-drive system monitors all four wheels for best traction to get you out of slippery circumstances or conquer challenging off-road conditions. Large side mirrors provide ample vision around the body and a back-up warning signal alerts when nearing a hidden obstacle. The high driving position allows for superior forward vision. Electronically controlled pedals and 10-way adjustable leather seats compensate for a variety of driver sizes. Both front seats come with heaters and coolers as standard equipment. Head room is not an issue for front or rear passengers. Power folding rear seats allow room enough for 84 cubic feet of cargo. Cutting to the chase, this is a great SUV. It behaves as you would expect a large vehicle to behave. I did not pursue any handling limits but did manage to discover the answer to a driving mystery. Have you noticed that freeway tailgaters are typically driving SUVs? It's because people don't adjust their driving to compensate for the bulk of their vehicle.

With half the drivers on the road being of below average capability, all four trim levels of Lincoln Navigator comes equipped with Advance Trac® and Roll Stability Control®. While advanced technology cannot overcome the laws of physics, it is comforting to know the Navigator can assist a driver in time of immediate need. The Lincoln Navigator 4x4 weighs in at 6003 pounds. And it is smooth as silk when driving. Independent multi link rear suspension lets each wheel respond without affecting the others. There are no clues beyond the speedometer of how fast you are traveling. Towing capacity on our test vehicle is 8800 pounds. The Lincoln Navigator provides all the room, comfort, and performance anyone could rightly expect from a full-sized SUV. It is a great pleasure to spend time in.

SUMMARY JUDGMENT The view from the top is comfortable, impressive, stable, roomy and versatile. For more information about Lincoln products, see www.lincoln.com. SPECIFICATIONS Name of vehicle: 2007 Lincoln Navigator Ultimate 4x4 Price: Base $50,655, as tested $58,470 options include: Elite Package (Entertainment package; power deploying running boards; electrochromatic rearview mirror w/microphone; rear seat entertainment system) $5,450, 20" Chrome plated aluminum wheels $1,495. Engine type: 5.4L EFI V8, Single overhead cam EPA mileage estimates City/ Highway: 12/17; 28 gallon fuel capacity Horsepower: 300 @ 5000 rpm Torque: 365 lb.-ft @ 3750 rpm Drive configuration: Front engine / 2 or 4 wheel drive Transmission type: Electronic 6-speed automatic overdrive Rear axel ratio 3.73:1 Suspension: Independent Multi-link with monotube shock absorbers Rear load-leveling air suspension Stabilizer bars Wheels and tires: 20-inch aluminum wheels, P275/55R20 BSW tires Brakes: 4-wheel discs with ABS Variable assist power rack/pinion steering Overall length/wheelbase: 208.4 inches/119 inches Overall width: 78.8 inches (excluding mirrors) Overall height: 78.3 inches Tows up to 8800 pounds. Lincoln Commitment owner benefits package includes 4YR/50,000 mile bumper to bumper warranty, 6YR/70,000 mile powertrain warranty, 6YR/70,000 mile 24-hr roadside assistance, complimentary scheduled maintenance for 12MO/12,000 miles. All warranty aspects are fully transferable and without deductible.