17 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards for fuel efficiency, but the 2016 Lincoln Navigator 4WD 3.5L isn’t built for hypermiling. It’s a full-size luxury SUV designed to haul families, tow boats, and project a certain image of success. For its target audience, the fuel consumption is simply the cost of doing business.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2016 Navigator at 15 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the realities of moving a vehicle that weighs close to three tons. Stop-and-go traffic in urban environments taxes the engine and drivetrain, resulting in the lower city MPG. The highway figure, while still not stellar, shows the benefit of the Navigator’s turbocharged 3.5L V6 settling into a more efficient cruising speed. Even on the highway, aerodynamic drag and rolling resistance take their toll, limiting the potential for significant fuel savings.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Lincoln Navigator 4WD 3.5L to be $2,600. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway. It also assumes a national average fuel price. Depending on your driving habits and local gas prices, your personal fuel expenses could be higher or lower. For anyone considering the NAVIGATOR MPG across all years, the annual fuel cost should be a key decision factor.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy can vary significantly. Aggressive driving, heavy loads, and towing will all negatively impact MPG. Conversely, gentle acceleration and consistent highway speeds can help you approach the EPA’s estimates. Factors such as tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and even weather conditions can also play a role.

Owners who frequently tow or live in hilly areas will likely see figures below the EPA’s ratings, while those who primarily use the Navigator for highway cruising might see slightly better results.

How it compares

The 2016 Lincoln Navigator exists in a segment where fuel economy is rarely the primary concern. However, even among its peers, it lags slightly. For example, the 2016 Cadillac Escalade 4WD, with its 6.2L V8, manages an EPA-estimated 17 MPG combined, similar to the Navigator. The Infiniti QX80 4WD, also equipped with a large V8, posts similar figures as well, highlighting the Navigator’s shortcomings even amidst gas-guzzling competitors. The Lexus LX 570, with its reliable V8, achieves 15 MPG combined, making the Navigator look slightly better by comparison, but the luxury and reliability reputation often sway buyers. Understanding that these alternatives exist, and their fuel economy, is important for the Navigator buyer weighing up the pros and cons.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Despite its size and capabilities, there are still ways to improve the fuel economy of your 2016 Lincoln Navigator. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. Smooth, gradual inputs will help the engine operate more efficiently and reduce unnecessary fuel consumption. Remember the V6 is turbocharged, so avoid flooring it to let the turbo overwork unless absolutely needed.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Regularly check your tire pressure, especially during temperature changes.

Minimize idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Excessive idling wastes fuel and contributes to unnecessary emissions.

The Navigator’s engine restarts quickly, making this an easy way to save fuel in city driving.

Reduce aerodynamic drag. Remove any unnecessary roof racks or cargo carriers when they are not in use. These accessories increase wind resistance and negatively impact fuel economy, especially at highway speeds.

Keep up with regular maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance. You can find all Lincoln fuel economy data on our site.