17 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, but for the 2015 Lincoln Navigator L 2WD, it’s simply part of the price you pay for serious space and capability. This isn’t a vehicle bought for its frugality. It’s chosen by those who prioritize carrying multiple passengers and their cargo in comfort, often while towing a boat or trailer. For them, fuel economy is a secondary concern behind the Navigator’s sheer size, luxurious features, and imposing presence.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2015 Navigator L 2WD at 15 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the realities of moving a vehicle that weighs nearly 6,000 pounds. The turbocharged 3.5L V6, while offering respectable power, still needs to work hard to overcome the Navigator’s weight and aerodynamic profile. The low city MPG is particularly indicative of the fuel consumption that occurs during frequent stop-and-go driving. However, a steady 20 MPG on the highway is achievable when maintaining consistent speeds, especially on relatively flat terrain.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 Lincoln Navigator L 2WD at $2,600. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Keep in mind that this is just an estimate, and your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and fuel prices in your area. Drivers who frequently tow or spend a significant amount of time idling in traffic will likely see this figure creep upward. For those interested in 2015 all Lincoln fuel economy data, more is available.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy for the 2015 Lincoln Navigator L 2WD can vary significantly depending on several factors. Aggressive driving, frequent towing, and driving in hilly or mountainous terrain will all negatively impact fuel efficiency. Conversely, drivers who prioritize smooth acceleration, maintain consistent speeds, and minimize idling may be able to achieve figures closer to, or even slightly above, the EPA estimates.

Monitoring your fuel consumption over time and adjusting your driving habits accordingly can help you optimize your MPG. Be sure to research NAVIGATOR MPG across all years too.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the 2015 Lincoln Navigator L 2WD sits in a similar fuel economy range. The Cadillac Escalade ESV, with its 6.2L V8, achieves a nearly identical 17 MPG combined, but burns premium fuel. The Infiniti QX80, another large luxury SUV, also lands around 16 MPG combined with its 5.6L V8. These figures highlight that fuel economy is generally not a strength in this segment.

For buyers considering alternatives with better fuel economy, options like the Lexus LX 570 (15 MPG combined) exist, but often come with compromises in terms of interior space or towing capacity. The key takeaway: The Navigator L’s fuel consumption is par for the course in this class of supremely large, luxurious vehicles.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Although the 2015 Lincoln Navigator L 2WD isn’t known for its fuel efficiency, there are several steps you can take to improve your MPG. Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during temperature changes.

Avoid aggressive driving habits such as rapid acceleration and hard braking. These actions put unnecessary strain on the engine and dramatically decrease fuel economy. Instead, practice smooth and gradual acceleration and anticipate traffic conditions to avoid sudden stops.

Minimize idling whenever possible. Idling burns fuel without moving the vehicle, so avoid letting the engine run unnecessarily, especially in stop-and-go traffic or while waiting for passengers. If you anticipate a prolonged stop, turn off the engine.

When possible, avoid carrying unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Extra weight increases the amount of energy required to move the Navigator L, which negatively impacts fuel economy. Remove any items from the cargo area that are not essential.

Consider using cruise control on long highway drives to maintain a consistent speed. This can help to optimize fuel efficiency by preventing fluctuations in acceleration and deceleration. However, be mindful of traffic conditions and be prepared to disengage cruise control when necessary, especially in hilly terrain.