MODEL
Lincoln Navigator L
NHTSA safety across every Lincoln Navigator L model year we cover.
Across the 2 model years of the Lincoln Navigator L we cover (2025 to 2026), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2025 at 86 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2026 at 84. 6 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Lincoln Navigator L is the extended-wheelbase version of Ford's flagship full-size luxury SUV, stretching to accommodate up to eight passengers in three rows of genuine premium space. Aimed squarely at buyers who want maximum presence, towing capability, and upscale comfort in a body-on-frame package, the Navigator L competes at the top of the American luxury SUV segment alongside rivals like the Cadillac Escalade ESV.
The 2025 Lincoln Navigator L earns a strong 86 out of 100 on the MotorCaliber Safety Index, a result that reflects genuinely competitive crash-test performance for a vehicle of this size and weight class. Federal testing returned a perfect five stars in both the frontal and side crash disciplines, which is a meaningful achievement for a large, body-on-frame SUV. The one notable soft spot is rollover resistance, where the Navigator L scores three out of five stars. That result is not surprising given the vehicle's tall ride height and substantial mass, but shoppers who prioritize rollover safety should note it. Six recalls across the 2025 model year is a figure worth watching. Recalls are not automatically a red flag, since manufacturers often issue them proactively, but six in a single model year is above average and warrants attention to whether your specific VIN has open recall work outstanding. Owner complaints stand at 11 total, with zero reported crashes, fires, injuries, or deaths among those filings. That is a low complaint volume for a flagship luxury vehicle, though these are unverified allegations and the model year is still relatively new. On balance, the Navigator L presents a strong frontal and side safety story, tempered by a modest rollover rating and a recall count that deserves a second look before purchase.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally praise the Lincoln Navigator L for its exceptionally refined interior, smooth ride quality, and commanding road presence. Most agree it delivers a genuinely premium experience that competes credibly with European and domestic luxury rivals. Some reviewers note the tall, truck-based platform can feel less agile than car-based alternatives, but the overall reception is strongly positive for buyers prioritizing comfort and space.
- The 2025 Navigator L earns five out of five stars in both federal frontal and side crash tests, placing it among the better performers in the full-size luxury SUV class on those two key measures.
- Rollover resistance is rated at three out of five stars. The vehicle's height and weight are contributing factors, and buyers who frequently carry a full load of passengers should be aware of this limitation.
- Six recalls have been issued for the 2025 model year. Before finalizing a purchase or taking delivery, check the NHTSA VIN lookup tool to confirm all open recalls on your specific vehicle have been remedied.
- Owner complaints total 11 for the 2025 model year, with zero reported crashes, fires, injuries, or deaths among those filings. While the complaint volume is low, the model year is still early in its lifecycle and that number may grow as more vehicles accumulate miles.
Most-recalled year on record: 2025 Lincoln Navigator L with 6 recalls.