Lincoln Navigator vs. Navigator L: Which Has the Space Your Family Needs?

In this article The Rankings at a Glance The Cabin Stays Cool While the Sculpture Garden Does Not Three Rows Mean Nobody Gets Left Behind BlueCruise Makes the Drive Part of the Day The Cabin Quiet Sets the Right Tone The Parking Fits the Vehicle Without a Second Thought The Aviator Earns the Drive The Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts sits in Blount Cultural Park, admission is free, parking is free, and the John and Joyce Caddell Sculpture Garden gives you three acres of outdoor art to walk through after the galleries. As afternoons go in east Montgomery, few beat it. Might we suggest heading there in a vehicle that delivers the style, refinement, and comfort best suited for such pursuits? The 2026 Lincoln Aviator three-row SUV is our suggestion for such an artistic pursuit. The Cabin Stays Cool While the Sculpture Garden Does Not Montgomery in late September is still summer by any honest measure, and the Aviator's tri-zone automatic climate control, standard on the base Premiere trim, means the cabin you come back to can deliver the cool you left behind while the Sculpture Garden bakes. That's a good thing, considering you'll be walking through the Caddell in genuine heat. Higher Aviator trims add a fourth zone to their automatic climate control systems, which lets whoever's in the second row manage his or her own temperature without negotiating with the front seat. Ventilated front seats are available on Reserve and Black Label trims - that matters more than it sounds after a long walk through outdoor sculpture in Alabama's humidity. Schedule a Pre-Trip Service Check Three Rows Mean Nobody Gets Left Behind The Aviator seats six or seven, depending on configuration, with second-row captain's chairs on most builds and a power-folding third row that drops flat at the touch of a button. That means there's room for pretty much everyone: bring grandchildren to the ArtWorks interactive gallery or parents who want the Sculpture Garden, and everyone rides. Lincoln lists 19.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, which handles a stroller, a canvas bag, and whatever comes out of the Museum Shop without drama. Fold both rows and you reach 75.9 cubic feet. Worth knowing: Third-row legroom measures 29.2 inches, so adults sit back there comfortably for shorter trips, not cross-state ones. For the ten-minute run from the Eastern Boulevard corridor to One Museum Drive, none of that registers. Also, the Aviator's second-row captain's chairs power tip and slide forward, which opens the path to the third row and makes the climb less of a scramble than most three-row SUVs ask for. On the lot we'll point out that you still want to nudge the front seat forward a touch to clear the widest gap, and older passengers or kids who need a hand notice the difference. BlueCruise Makes the Drive Part of the Day Lincoln BlueCruise 1.5 comes standard on every 2026 Aviator trim, including the base Premiere, and on controlled-access highway segments inside designated Blue Zones it runs hands-free across more than 130,000 miles of prequalified divided highway in the United States and Canada, though the last mile into the park is on you. Eastern Boulevard and the Vaughn Road approach into Blount Cultural Park are surface streets, so BlueCruise isn't in play on that stretch. If you're coming in from further out on I-85, it handles the highway leg while the morning is still settling. BlueCruise is a driver-assist feature and requires an attentive driver with eyes on the road at all times. The 2026 update added automatic lane-change capability and in-lane repositioning, which nudges the vehicle away from adjacent traffic (subtly enough that passengers rarely clock it). It works without fanfare, the way good assistance should. The Cabin Quiet Sets the Right Tone The Aviator keeps the drive itself as composed as the galleries you're headed for, using Lincoln's active noise-control engineering to hold wind and road noise down at highway speed, and the available Revel Ultima 28-speaker system on Reserve and Black Label trims rewards the drive over on its own. Does a quiet cabin actually change a museum visit? A little, and in a way you feel more than measure. Stepping out of road noise into gallery hush is a jolt the Aviator softens before you reach the door. The Vehicle Fits the Parking Without a Second Thought Parking at the MMFA is the easy part, because the lot at One Museum Drive is open, surface-level, and free, precisely what a 199.7-inch three-row SUV is built for. Pull in, find a stall, and you're done. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. Mondays it's closed. Last entry is 4:45 p.m. It's worth confirming your timing before you go, particularly on Sundays. The short hours leave less margin than you'd think. The Aviator Delivers An Artful Drive The 2026 Lincoln Aviator's twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 produces 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, and tows up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. Still, none of those figures explains why it's a great tool to use on an afternoon spent at the MMFA. Aviator excells because the cabin is composed, the climate control is thorough, the third row fits the whole group, and the drive from Eastern Boulevard to Blount Cultural Park is as short and pleasant as it ought to be. The museum handles the art. The Aviator handles everything else. If you want to see what's on our lot, or talk through which trim fits the way your family actually uses a vehicle, our team at Stivers Lincoln of Montgomery sits on Eastern Boulevard and is glad to walk through it without any urgency. By the Stivers Lincoln of Montgomery Team | September 2026 Value Your Current Vehicle Stivers Lincoln of Montgomery 4000 Eastern Blvd, Montgomery, AL 36116 (334) 647-6905

America’s 250th anniversary is a moment to look back at the people, ideas, and industries that helped shape the country. For many drivers, few industries feel as connected to American progress as the automobile. Vehicles changed where families could live, how people worked, how businesses grew, and how communities stayed connected. Ford played a major role in that story, and Lincoln brought a different kind of American identity to the road: quiet luxury, thoughtful design, and a more refined driving experience. At Stivers Lincoln of Montgomery, this anniversary is a fitting time to reflect on how Lincoln became part of the Ford family and why the brand still stands apart today. Lincoln vehicles have never been about being the loudest option on the road. They have always represented comfort, presence, craftsmanship, and a more graceful way to travel. For drivers in Montgomery, Alabama, that story feels right at home. This city understands American history in a very real way. Montgomery has seen important chapters of the country’s past unfold, and it continues to be a place where tradition and progress meet. Lincoln’s own history follows a similar path. It began with a desire to build something distinguished, became part of Ford’s larger American story, and continues today through a lineup of luxury SUVs designed around comfort, confidence, and calm. How Lincoln Became Part of America’s Automotive Story The Lincoln Motor Company was founded in 1917 by Henry Leland and his son, Wilfred Leland. Henry Leland was already known in the automotive world for his attention to precision and quality. His background helped shape Lincoln from the beginning as a brand with a more refined purpose. Before Lincoln became known for luxury vehicles, the company helped support the country during World War I by building aircraft engines. After the war, Lincoln shifted toward luxury automobiles. This was an important move because it gave the company a clear identity. Ford had already changed daily transportation for millions of Americans by making vehicles more accessible. Lincoln would come to represent a different part of the American road: prestige, elegance, comfort, and design. In 1922, Ford Motor Company purchased Lincoln. That moment connected two important ideas under one larger automotive family. Ford represented practical mobility and broad American access. Lincoln represented a more premium expression of travel. Together, they gave Ford Motor Company a way to serve drivers across a wider range of needs, from hardworking utility to quiet luxury. Why the Lincoln Name Still Carries Meaning The Lincoln name itself has always carried a sense of dignity. Named after President Abraham Lincoln, the brand has long been tied to ideas of leadership, presence, and American character. That does not mean every Lincoln vehicle has to feel formal or old-fashioned. In fact, today’s Lincoln lineup shows how the brand has evolved while still holding onto its core identity. Modern Lincoln vehicles are designed around the feeling of the drive. The goal is not simply to get from one place to another. The goal is to make that time feel more peaceful, more comfortable, and more personal. This matters for drivers who spend a lot of time on the road, whether they are commuting through Montgomery, traveling across Alabama, visiting family, or taking longer trips throughout the Southeast. Lincoln’s current approach to luxury is not overly flashy. It is smooth, quiet, and intentional. The cabins are designed to feel welcoming. The technology is meant to support the driver without feeling overwhelming. The ride quality is built around comfort. That makes Lincoln a strong fit for shoppers who want a premium vehicle that feels polished without trying too hard. America’s 250th Anniversary and Lincoln’s Place in Ford’s Legacy America’s 250th anniversary is a fitting time to recognize Ford’s long-standing role in American transportation. Ford helped change the way vehicles were built, sold, and used by everyday families. The Ford production line helped make vehicle ownership more attainable, and that shift played a major role in the way the country grew. Lincoln’s place in this celebration is a little different, and that is what makes this article important. Lincoln did not become famous by trying to be the most common vehicle on the road. Lincoln became meaningful by offering a more elevated version of American driving. It gave buyers a vehicle that could feel quiet, composed, and special while still being part of the Ford Motor Company family. As America celebrates 250 years, Lincoln gives shoppers a chance to appreciate the luxury side of that story. The brand reflects how American vehicles became more than transportation. They became personal spaces. They became symbols of achievement. They became part of family milestones, business success, road trips, and daily routines. A Lincoln does not need to shout to make that point. It simply needs to feel right every time you get in. Lincoln Luxury for Montgomery Drivers Drivers in Montgomery have a wide range of daily needs. Some want a luxury SUV that feels comfortable during city driving. Some want space for family and travel. Others want something refined enough for business use but practical enough for everyday errands. Lincoln’s SUV lineup gives shoppers several ways to find that balance. The Lincoln Corsair offers a compact luxury SUV experience with comfort, style, and easy maneuverability. It can be a great match for drivers who want a premium feel without moving into a larger vehicle. The Lincoln Nautilus brings more space, modern design, and a calm driving experience that works well for daily life and longer trips. The Lincoln Aviator offers three-row luxury for families who need extra room but still want a vehicle that feels elegant. The Lincoln Navigator stands at the top of the lineup with full-size luxury, strong presence, and impressive passenger comfort. Each Lincoln model has its own personality, but the common thread is the same. Lincoln focuses on the experience inside the vehicle. The seats, layout, sound control, ride comfort, technology, and design details all work together to create a more relaxing drive. For many luxury shoppers, that feeling matters just as much as horsepower or exterior styling. You can begin comparing available models by browsing the new Lincoln inventory at Stivers Lincoln of Montgomery. A Different Kind of American Luxury Luxury has changed over the years. For some drivers, luxury once meant size, chrome, and dramatic styling. Today, many shoppers want something more personal. They want a vehicle that feels comfortable, useful, quiet, and well-built. Lincoln has leaned into that shift by creating vehicles that focus on calm rather than noise. That approach makes sense for Montgomery drivers. A luxury vehicle should make the day easier. It should feel good during the morning commute, the drive to dinner, the trip to the airport, or the long ride to visit family. It should give passengers space to relax and give the driver confidence without adding stress. Lincoln interiors are designed to create that kind of environment. Available features may include premium seating materials, advanced audio, large digital displays, driver-assist technology, flexible cargo space, and thoughtful storage. These features are not there just to fill a spec sheet. They are meant to improve the time you spend behind the wheel. That is where Lincoln continues to stand apart. It is not trying to copy every other luxury brand. It has its own pace, its own personality, and its own understanding of what American luxury can feel like. Used Lincoln and Pre-Owned Luxury Options Buying a new Lincoln is a great way to enjoy the latest design, technology, and comfort features. Still, many shoppers also consider used vehicles because they can offer excellent value. A pre-owned Lincoln may give drivers access to premium features, a higher trim level, or a larger model at a price that better fits their budget. Stivers Lincoln of Montgomery offers used vehicles in Montgomery, AL for shoppers who want more options. This can include pre-owned Lincoln models as well as other used cars, trucks, and SUVs. For luxury shoppers, used inventory is especially worth reviewing because the right vehicle may already include many of the comfort, safety, and convenience features you want. A used Lincoln can be a smart choice for someone who wants premium comfort without buying brand-new. It can also be a practical fit for families, professionals, retirees, or anyone who wants a vehicle that feels more refined than a basic commuter. The key is comparing condition, mileage, features, and overall fit before making a decision. Financing a Lincoln in Montgomery, AL Luxury vehicle shopping should feel enjoyable, and that includes the financing process. Whether you are considering a new Lincoln or a used vehicle, having clear finance options can make the experience feel much easier. The team at Stivers Lincoln of Montgomery can help shoppers review available options and better understand what may work for their budget. Some buyers already have a specific monthly payment in mind. Others are comparing down payment options, trade-in value, loan terms, or whether new or used makes more sense. No two shoppers are in the exact same situation, so the financing conversation should be personal and straightforward. You can begin online by visiting the Lincoln finance center at Stivers Lincoln of Montgomery. Starting from home can help save time and give you a better sense of your options before visiting the dealership. Lincoln’s Past and Future Meet in Today’s Lineup One of the most interesting things about Lincoln is how the brand carries its history without feeling stuck in it. The early Lincoln vehicles were built around quality and prestige. Later, Lincoln became known for elegant design, executive transportation, and vehicles that made an impression without needing to be aggressive. Today, the brand continues that tradition through SUVs built around comfort, technology, and everyday usability. This makes Lincoln a natural fit for the America 250 conversation. The brand reminds us that American automotive history is not only about production numbers, work trucks, or mass transportation. It is also about design, craftsmanship, comfort, and the way vehicles can make a driver feel. Ford helped put America on wheels. Lincoln helped show that American vehicles could also be graceful, quiet, and deeply refined. That balance is still visible today. Lincoln benefits from being part of the Ford family, but it keeps its own identity. It serves drivers who want something more elevated, more relaxed, and more personal. For Montgomery shoppers, that means you can choose a vehicle with American roots and modern luxury in the same package. Celebrate Lincoln’s American Legacy at Stivers Lincoln of Montgomery America’s 250th anniversary is a meaningful time to look at the brands that helped shape the road ahead. Ford changed American mobility, and Lincoln added a premium chapter to that story. From its early beginnings with Henry and Wilfred Leland to its place within Ford Motor Company, Lincoln has remained connected to American craftsmanship, design, and progress. Stivers Lincoln of Montgomery is proud to help local drivers connect that history to today’s luxury lineup. Whether you are interested in a new Lincoln SUV, a used luxury vehicle, or financing options, the dealership is ready to help you take the next step with confidence. You can begin by viewing new Lincoln vehicles in Montgomery, AL, comparing used vehicles, or starting with the Lincoln financing process. When you are ready for personal assistance, directions, or answers about a specific model, contact Stivers Lincoln of Montgomery. Lincoln’s history is rooted in American luxury, and its future is ready for drivers who want every mile to feel calm, confident, and well considered.

Lincoln's Phone As A Key is a handy new feature that smartifies locking and unlocking your car. It works with any smartphone that uses Bluetooth. This guide explores what it is, why it's useful, and how to use it while you're on the go in Montgomery, Alabama. New Lincoln Inventory UsedLincoln Inventory Get Financing Online Call Us Today What Is Lincoln's Phone as a Key Technology? Lincoln's "Phone As A Key" is a feature that turns your smartphone into a digital key for your vehicle, so you can lock, unlock, start, and even drive your Lincoln using the Lincoln Way app and Bluetooth technology. You don't need to utilize a physical key fob to do so. To use the digital key, download the Lincoln Way app, activate the embedded modem in your vehicle, and enable Bluetooth on your phone. Which 2025 Lincoln Models Support Phone as a Key? Lincoln launched this feature in 2020, where it was first available on the 2020 Lincoln Navigator, Aviator, and Corsair models. This means that all 2025 models now support this feature. This includes the: 2025 Lincoln Corsair 2025 Lincoln Nautilus 2025 Lincoln Aviator 2025 Lincoln Navigator Step-by-Step Setup Guide Using the Lincoln Way App Setting up the Lincoln Way app and using your phone as a key is easy, provided your phone and vehicle are compatible with the Phone As A Key feature. Download and open the Lincoln Way app from the Apple Store or Android Play Store. Turn on Bluetooth and location services on your phone. Log in or create an account. Select "Add Vehicle" on the app home screen. When your vehicle is found, give it a nickname and select "Get Started". On the home screen, select "Activate Vehicle" and "OK". Turn on connectivity settings on your Lincoln's infotainment screen. It will request "Confirm Lincoln Way connection?" (select "Yes"). Back to your phone, on the app's home screen, choose "Setup Phone As A Key" and "Set Up Now". Fill in your username and password. Name your digital key (max 16 characters, no special symbols) such as "Tom's Phone" and press "Next". Wait for the key to finish downloading. Copy the temporary Bluetooth passcode that appears on your phone's screen. Paste the passcode into the Bluetooth pairing request on your phone and click "Pair". A message will appear to show the setup is complete. Create a backup passcode for emergencies (minimum 8 characters). Once you're set up, you can control key functions via the app. How to Lock, Unlock, and Start Your Vehicle Remotely Using the Lincoln Way app, you can remotely lock, unlock, and start your vehicle. Phone As A Key will automatically connect when you're within Bluetooth range. You can set it up so that when you get close to your car and can touch the handle, the driver's door will automatically unlock. How to Share Digital Access with Family Members To share your Lincoln Phone as a Key with family members, you need to assign their devices as a personal profile using the vehicle's touchscreen. On the touchscreen, select the "Profile" icon, then "Edit". Choose ID Methods to link a device to a personal profile. Follow the on-screen prompts to link the family member's device to their personal profile. Follow the prompts to confirm the linking process for the device. Keep in mind that each device can only be linked to one personal profile. You can't link to a guest profile or link a personalized name to a guest profile. Make sure your family member has the Lincoln Way app installed and set up on their phone to manage their profile. For security reasons, they may also need to activate their Phone As A Key feature using a temporary passcode provided by your Lincoln Way app, which you can share with them separately. Backup Access: What Happens If Your Phone Dies? If your phone's battery dies while using Lincoln's Phone As A Key, you can still start your vehicle by using the backup start passcode you previously set up or, of course, using the physical key. To do this: Park your car and hold the brake pedal down. The vehicle's touchscreen will display a screen to enter the passcode. Put the passcode in. You have 30 seconds to start the vehicle by pressing the brake and start button within a 20-second window. Safety and Security Features of Phone As A Key The Lincoln digital key features facial recognition, fingerprint scanning, or a backup passcode on the user's smartphone to access and start the vehicle. It uses your phone's Bluetooth connection for proximity-based access, paired with the Lincoln Way app for managing and sharing keys. Additional layers of security include a dedicated backup start passcode. Troubleshooting Common Phone As A Key Issues To troubleshoot your Lincoln's Phone As A Key feature, make sure the Lincoln Way App is running and your phone's Bluetooth is on, then move the phone closer to the vehicle, especially the center console area. If you still have issues, restart the app and toggle your phone's Bluetooth off and on. If the problem continues, contact Lincoln Concierge support or bring your car in to our technicians at Stivers Lincoln for further assistance. Learn More About Lincoln Tech at Stivers Lincoln of Montgomery The 2025 Lincoln phone key setup is easy and straightforward. However, if you're having any trouble or need help, feel free to stop by Stivers Lincoln. Our team can provide personalized assistance, demonstrations, and support with Lincoln's Phone As A Key setup. We can also give you advice on how to maximize your vehicle's digital features. Contact Us today or give us a call at 334-777-6998 or stop by in person today. Images by OEM