Car and Driver highlights the Navigator's stately presence, immense cabin space, and vault-like quietness. The twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 provides strong acceleration for its size, but fuel economy is mediocre. The ride is smooth and controlled with the adaptive suspension, yet steering feels numb. Interior merits include 30-way power front seats, the 13.2-inch touchscreen, and generous third-row space. Criticisms involve nested infotainment menus and missing physical controls. It is seen as a compelling alternative to the Cadillac Escalade with superior materials and quieter cabin, but loses points for reliability predictions and transmission response in stop-and-go traffic.

MotorTrend views the Navigator as a genuine flagship SUV with near-silent cabin and high-quality leather and real wood trim. The long-wheelbase Navigator L offers enormous cargo capacity and adult-friendly third-row legroom. The 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 produces 440 horsepower and achieves about 5.5 seconds to 60 mph, though its soundtrack is gruff under hard acceleration. The adaptive suspension is well-damped, but 22-inch wheels add harshness on broken pavement. Steering lacks feedback and the brake pedal feels mushy. Minor deductions for powertrain refinement and the Piano Key shifter, yet the Navigator is recommended for American luxury SUV buyers seeking space and serenity.