Predictions: Lincoln and Ford SUVs

Although most fans are now focused on the new Ford Expedition and Expedition Max, still the name worth mentioning is Lincoln Navigator. The vehicle is underpinned by the Expedition platform, and this seems the moment to discuss some of the predictions regarding this vehicle.When it comes to appearance, we can assume that the Navigator will not differ too much from its concept. Since the two concepts are so similar, we may say that the Expedition is a preview and that Navigator is an end product. For instance, the shape of the C-pillars is almost the same on the two models. The Expedition features body color on the C-pillars, whereas the Navigator’s are black.
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mre30 - 2/9/2017 10:09:00 AM

0 Boost

I think the 'golden ring' in this segment, aside from interior luxury, is interior packaging.

For example, for customers wanting a true 7/8 seat vehicle - they would really have to purchase the 'EXT' long versions of the Escalade or Suburban. On the GM large SUV's, the short versions (i.e. the Tahoe or short Escalade) have such poor third row interior room that they don't really function as 7-seaters. This is mostly because of GM's live rear axle for those SUV's.

If Ford/Lincoln (due to the packaging advantages of IRS) can provide both a generous third row as well as a little luggage space in the standard SUV's - customers will flock to that.

Bascially, the long Escalades and Suburbans are too unwieldy for many to use (and park!)

A shorter package with 7/8 seats and some luggage space would really do well.

Also, the Lincoln folks should shamelessly copy the interior of the Range Rover for the Navigator. If the Navigator interior is beautiful, they will sell lots of them.

If

dumpsty - 2/10/2017 1:05:52 PM

+1 Boost

There's going to be an "interesting" mix of consumers who will buy for need & those who buy for vanity. If you truly want a comfortable seating for your 7th/8th passengers, minivans seem to be the best solution. However, it towing capabilities are necessary, then 3rd row passengers will just have to continue to "suffer".

The new Expedition looks good. But not too "flashy". And has all the content most consumers use & expect to see in their large upscale vehicles. Believe it or not, the Flex is just as capable (sans towing) as the Expedition - it has lower ride height & would be easier to maneuver/park. But since the Expedition is the "new hawtness", the Flex is more quickly forgotten.

The Navigator just needs a really slick interior. Hopefully most of the concept exterior will make it to the production version. There's penned-up demand, Lincoln just gotta come proper & deliver an overall package that is truly competitive.

malba2367 - 2/9/2017 11:23:41 AM

+2 Boost

Packaging is important to the "minivan replacement" crowd...most of those people are buying Crossovers such as Explorer, Pilot, Enclave etc... These large SUVs are an entirely different market and doesn't make a whole lot of sense. GM's complete dominance of this segment for many years (despite models such as Expedition and Sequoia offering much better packaging in the third row) goes to prove that customers care little about the practicality of the vehicle in the areas of passenger and cargo space.

MDarringer - 2/9/2017 7:09:09 PM

+1 Boost

The Navigator cannot come quickly enough.