New 2010 Lincoln Navigator L

For big, luxurious toy-hauling, the Lincoln Navigator is a tough-to-beat SUV. In fact, one of the only choices that’s bigger is the 2010 Lincoln Navigator L.

In the engine bay of the 2010 Lincoln Navigator L is the bullish 300-horsepower, 5.4-liter V-8, which is bolted to a six-speed automatic. This pairing yields 14 mpg in the city and 20 on the highway in the shorter Navigator; ratings are unavailable for this longer and heavier model. An 8,800 pound towing capacity, along with available electronic trailer sway controls makes this not only one of the biggest but also one of the most capable SUV’s on the market, and is certain to give the Cadillac Escalade a run for its money.

The chassis of the 2010 Lincoln Navigator L features a wheelbase twelve inches longer than the base Navigator, and a 14.9-inch longer body. While the L offers occupants the same amount of room, the maximum cargo capacity jumps way up from 103 to 128 cubic feet. THX speakers and Sirius Satellite Radio do an excellent job filling this cavernous interior with delectable music, while premium leather seats with heat provide an excellent place for auditory repose. An optional navigation system keeps you on course while dual-zone climate controls keeps all occupants cozy. Outside, the standard running boards make getting in and out easy.

In the event of an accident, the 2010 Lincoln Navigator L protects occupants with an excellent crashworthy package. The base Navigator received Five-Star ratings on everything but rollover resistance, and the L model is essentially identical in structure to the base model, from the front and front-side perspectives. Front, front-side, and three-row head airbags cushion precious cargo.

To prevent accidents, antilock brakes, traction and stability control are all provided as standard equipment. For added piece of mind, Lincoln included the SOS Post-Crash Alert System and the MyKey system. That first system activates the horn and emergency lights to notify passersby and emergency vehicles as to the location of the damaged Navigator; the second system provides a separate key that prevents teenage drivers from exceeding 80 miles per hour or turning off safety features like the traction control system.

It’s all there: space, power, luxury and utility. The 2010 Lincoln Navigator L offers a dominant full-size SUV package at a bargain luxury price.