17 MPG combined won’t win any awards for less gas, but that’s what you get with the 2016 Lincoln Navigator L 2WD with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6. This vehicle is for those who prioritize space, towing capacity, and a commanding presence. It’s a full-size SUV designed to haul families, gear, and trailers, and its fuel consumption reflects that. Buyers haven’t forgotten about fuel efficiency; they’ve simply decided that the Navigator L’s capabilities are more important than saving at the pump.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2016 Lincoln Navigator L 2WD are 15 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway. City driving, with its stop-and-go traffic and idling, reduces fuel economy in a vehicle of this size. The Navigator’s weight requires energy to get moving, and frequent acceleration uses a lot of fuel. Highway driving is slightly better. Maintaining a consistent speed allows the engine to operate more efficiently, leading to the 20 MPG. However, even then, aerodynamic drag is a factor, and the Navigator’s shape doesn’t minimize wind resistance.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Lincoln Navigator L 2WD will be about $2,600. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. This is just an estimate. Your actual fuel costs may be higher or lower depending on your driving, the type of driving you do, and fuel prices in your area. Aggressive driving, idling, and premium fuel (though not required) will increase that $2,600 figure.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs. Expect to see numbers within a couple of MPG of the official ratings, but be prepared for changes. Headwinds, cargo weight, and tire pressure can influence fuel consumption. Towing will have a large impact, possibly dropping the MPG into the single digits. Owners who frequently tow large trailers or boats should factor this into their fuel budget. Some drivers report slightly better highway MPG on road trips with a light load and consistent speed, but expect overall fuel consumption to align closely with the EPA estimates.

How it compares

The 2016 Lincoln Navigator L is in a segment where fuel economy isn’t a selling point. The Cadillac Escalade ESV, a competitor, achieves similar EPA numbers. The Lexus LX 570, known for its reliability, offers a similar MPG experience. The Infiniti QX80, another large SUV, has a similar fuel econonomy range. For buyers, the choice comes down to brand, features, and driving, with fuel economy as a secondary factor. Those seeking better fuel economy might consider the shorter version of the Navigator, though the difference is small. See all all Lincoln fuel economy data on our site to compare models.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the Navigator L isn’t designed for great fuel efficiency, you can minimize fuel consumption. Avoid accelerating and braking hard. The EcoBoost V6 engine is responsive, but acceleration uses fuel. A smooth driving style will help.

Monitor your tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. See the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine run consumes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. This is especially important in city traffic.

Reduce weight. Carrying cargo increases the vehicle’s mass, which requires more energy to move. Remove items you don’t need to improve fuel economy. Roof racks and cargo carriers add wind resistance, and therefore hurt fuel economy.

Consider driving the non “L” version. It’s smaller and lighter. Consult the NAVIGATOR MPG across all years to compare the MPG differences.