19 MPG combined won’t win any fuel-sipping contests, but nobody buys a two-wheel-drive 2023 Lincoln Navigator expecting Prius-like efficiency. It’s a rolling American luxury, a status symbol designed to coddle its passengers in a leather-lined cocoon while effortlessly devouring highway miles. For the Navigator’s target audience, successful entrepreneurs, established professionals, and families who prioritize space and comfort above all else, the fuel economy is a known quantity, an acceptable trade-off for the considerable benefits it offers.

City and highway performance

The 2023 Navigator 2WD is rated at 17 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where frequent acceleration and idling take a toll on fuel consumption. The Navigator’s weight plays a role here; it requires a significant amount of energy just to get moving. On the open road, the 23 MPG highway figure is more respectable, benefitting from the engine’s ability to cruise in a more efficient range and the 10-speed automatic transmission’s optimized gear ratios. However, headwinds, hills, and a heavy foot will quickly diminish those numbers.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Lincoln Navigator 2WD will be $2,300. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and where you live. For instance, premium fuel, which is recommended by Lincoln, will increase this expense slightly.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful benchmark, real-world fuel economy often deviates. Navigator owners report a wide range of MPG, influenced by factors such as driving style, terrain, and load. Expect to see figures around the EPA estimates if you drive conservatively, but don’t be surprised if you average closer to 15-16 MPG in mixed driving conditions, especially if you frequently use the Navigator’s ample passenger and cargo capacity. Towing will significantly decrease mileage, something to consider if you plan on using this vehicle for hauling duties. Explore NAVIGATOR MPG across all years.

How it compares

Compared to its direct competitors, the 2023 Lincoln Navigator 2WD’s fuel economy is broadly similar. The Cadillac Escalade 2WD, for example, achieves an EPA-estimated 16 MPG city and 22 MPG highway with its standard 6.2L V8. The Infiniti QX80, another large luxury SUV, lands around 14 MPG city and 20 MPG highway. The Mercedes-Benz GLS 450, although slightly more efficient with its 3.0L inline-6 turbo mild-hybrid system (20 MPG city/24 MPG highway), carries a higher starting price. The Navigator buyer isn’t solely fixated on fuel; they prioritize interior space, towing capacity, and a smooth, comfortable ride, often accepting the fuel economy as a necessary consequence of these attributes. You can also view all Lincoln fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While a Navigator will never be mistaken for efficiency, there are steps you can take to improve its gas mileage. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, as these habits consume excessive fuel. A gentle and steady approach to driving will yield noticeable improvements over time.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and reducing fuel economy by as much as 3%. Check your tire pressures regularly, especially during seasonal temperature changes.

Minimize idling whenever possible. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, and prolonged idling wastes fuel unnecessarily.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed helps optimize fuel consumption, especially on long trips. Be mindful of traffic conditions and adjust your speed accordingly.

Keep up with scheduled maintenance, particularly oil changes and air filter replacements. A clean air filter ensures proper airflow to the engine, while fresh oil reduces friction and improves overall efficiency. A well-maintained vehicle is always a more efficient vehicle.