It's difficult not to compare the Navigator to the Cadillac Escalade, mostly because they have traditionally (if you can use that term for 5-year old vehicles) are targeted at the same demographic. Where some will be enthralled or otherwise offended by the Cadillac's avant-garde exterior design, all will be seduced by the Lincoln's gorgeous new interior. Light years beyond the Escalade in both style and execution, the Navigator's cabin is a feast for bored and jaded eyes. Its symmetrical instrument panel was inspired by the design of the 1961 Lincoln Continental, one of my favorite cars. Available in two palettes, a two-tone light parchment and espresso finish or monochromatic black, it's as warm and inviting as SUV interiors get.
Part of this ambience has to be attributed to the burled walnut accents, but then as much could be due to its rich low luster satin nickel metallic finishes. Just below a classic-faced analog clock a large NAVIGATOR scripted door opens to a stellar sounding audio system and optional navigation monitor and controls. The instruments are easy to read, backlit by cold cathode technology while most interior switches are backlit in white.
"We developed white lighting for the new Lincoln Navigator because it looks clean and modern," says Mike Arbaugh, Navigator chief designer. "It's the perfect complement to the soft luster of the satin nickel surface treatments."
The satin nickel finish also covers each automatic climate control switch and button, giving the interface the look and feel of a high-end home audio system. The seats are covered in soft leather with a milled pebble finish, similar to the look of the dash panels. The Lincoln's carpeting looks rich under the feet while above, its headliner and A-pillars are overlaid with a new textured "prismatic" weave cloth.
Part of this ambience has to be attributed to the burled walnut accents, but then as much could be due to its rich low luster satin nickel metallic finishes. Just below a classic-faced analog clock a large NAVIGATOR scripted door opens to a stellar sounding audio system and optional navigation monitor and controls. The instruments are easy to read, backlit by cold cathode technology while most interior switches are backlit in white.
"We developed white lighting for the new Lincoln Navigator because it looks clean and modern," says Mike Arbaugh, Navigator chief designer. "It's the perfect complement to the soft luster of the satin nickel surface treatments."
The satin nickel finish also covers each automatic climate control switch and button, giving the interface the look and feel of a high-end home audio system. The seats are covered in soft leather with a milled pebble finish, similar to the look of the dash panels. The Lincoln's carpeting looks rich under the feet while above, its headliner and A-pillars are overlaid with a new textured "prismatic" weave cloth.