2015 Lincoln Navigator Blows Into Windy City With Twin Turbos

Love it or not the Lincoln Navigator has finally received some much-needed attention for the 2015 model year. Despite getting an early reveal on the Interwebz not long ago the refreshed full-size luxury SUV was formally introduced to the public right here at the Chicago Auto Show.

But does this behemoth have what it takes to help the troubled Lincoln brand or is it a classic case of too little, too late? Should we just let First Lady Mary Todd take it out for a night at Ford’s Theatre? Well, here’s what the 2015 Navigator has going for it.

First it’s got mildly updated exterior styling, and it finally wears the brand’s signature split-wing grille; at last the Navigator looks like it actually belongs in the Lincoln lineup. HID headlamps are standard as are LED accents. Of course the truck’s rear has received some nice design enhancements including a butt lift and a touch of liposuction.

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But more importantly than styling, the 2015 Navigator features an all-new powertrain, relatively speaking of course. It will be hauled around by Ford’s ubiquitous and excellent 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine.

Replacing an outdated 5.4-liter V8, the twin-turbocharged six-shooter will give birth to at least 370 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque. Along with a healthy increase in output it should also deliver best-in-class towing. Those kibbles and bits ares routed through a six-speed automatic transmission to either the rear or all four wheels.

Popping a door and sliding inside you’re treated to even more changes, though things remain pretty familiar because the dashboard still has Lincoln’s dual-cowl design that harkens back to iconic cars like the Continental from the mid-1960s.

SEE ALSO: Complete 2014 Chicago Auto Show Coverage

The instrument panel is redesigned and clad in soft leather. It looks and feels a lot more premium than the dash in today’s Navigator. Exotic-sounding zircote wood looks pretty neat and is supposedly new to the automotive industry. SYNC with MyLincoln Touch is standard fare along with push-button start.

Naturally things like pricing and fuel economy have not been made public at this time but production of the 2015 Lincoln Navigator is set to begin this Summer at Ford’s Kentucky Truck Plant. Look for it at dealerships this fall.