16 MPG combined won’t win any awards, but it’s the cost of owning the 2016 Lincoln Navigator L 4WD with the EcoBoost 3.5L V6, a vehicle designed to move families and their belongings with considerable style and comfort, regardless of the weather. This isn’t a commuter car. It’s a full-size luxury SUV that prioritizes space, towing capacity, and a commanding presence over outright fuel efficiency.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates of 15 MPG in the city and 19 MPG on the highway reflect the Navigator L’s inherent compromises. Its considerable curb weight and large frontal area work against it in stop-and-go traffic, demanding more power to get moving. The highway figure, while better, is still limited by aerodynamics and the engine’s need to overcome wind resistance at higher speeds. The six-speed automatic transmission, while generally smooth, is also a limiting factor in the fuel economy equation compared to modern 8, 9, or even 10-speed designs common in newer SUVs.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2016 Lincoln Navigator L 4WD is $2,750. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using the EPA’s combined MPG rating, and assuming national average fuel prices at the time of calculation. Individual driving habits, local fuel costs, and variations in actual mileage could all cause your personal fuel expenses to deviate from this estimated value. But it serves as a valuable data point for comparing the Navigator’s running costs against those of other large SUVs.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a benchmark, real-world fuel economy will vary depending on driving style, load, and conditions. Owners using the Navigator L primarily for short trips around town, especially in cold weather, will likely see figures closer to the city rating, or even lower. Conversely, those who frequently undertake long highway journeys with minimal cargo might achieve slightly better numbers. Towing, a common use case for this vehicle, will dramatically reduce fuel economy, potentially dropping it well into the single digits.

How it compares

The 2016 Lincoln Navigator L’s fuel economy puts it in the same range as other large, body-on-frame SUVs of its era. For example, the 2016 Cadillac Escalade ESV 4WD with the 6.2L V8 is rated at 17 MPG combined, making it a slightly more efficient choice. The INFINITI QX80 4WD, another competitor, achieves a similar combined rating of 15 MPG with its 5.6L V8. These differences, although seemingly small, can have a noticeable impact on annual fuel costs. Buyers considering the Navigator L also typically cross-shop the GMC Yukon XL Denali 4WD, which posts similar fuel economy numbers. The Escalade is frequently cross-shopped because it offers similar space and luxury, while the Yukon Denali offers similar space and towing capability at a lower price point, so you’ll want to check all Lincoln fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Given the Navigator L’s inherent limitations, maximizing fuel efficiency requires a conscious effort. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking, as these actions consume a disproportionate amount of fuel, especially on a heavy vehicle like this. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible.

Tire pressure plays an important role in fuel economy. Ensure that your tires are properly inflated to the pressure recommended on the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Regularly inspect your tires and maintain the correct pressure.

Minimize unnecessary weight. Removing excess cargo from the vehicle reduces the amount of energy required to accelerate and maintain speed. While the Navigator L is designed to carry substantial loads, every extra pound contributes to increased fuel consumption.

Consider using cruise control on long highway journeys. Maintaining a constant speed helps to reduce fuel fluctuations caused by variations in throttle input. While cruise control may not be optimal in all situations, it can improve fuel economy on relatively flat and straight roads if you choose not to drive the NAVIGATOR MPG across all years any further.

Use the “Tow/Haul” mode only when necessary. This mode alters the transmission’s shift points to optimize performance while towing, but it also reduces fuel economy. If you’re not towing a trailer, keep the vehicle in its standard driving mode.