Reasons the 2025 Lincoln Navigator Continues to Embrace Touchpads

The 2025 Lincoln Navigator features an impressive display on its dashboard—over 48 inches of digital screen. This design choice reflects trends seen in Cadillac, Mercedes-Benz, and other full-size SUVs. However, unlike its rivals, Lincoln is integrating a pair of touchpads mounted on the steering wheel to facilitate interaction. The design team believes that users will not only enjoy these touchpads but will also value the added advantages they bring to the Navigator’s interior.

This approach marks a significant departure from competitors like the Escalade, which boasts a 55-inch display. Interestingly, if you combine the 48-inch panoramic display of the Navigator with an additional 11-inch touchscreen main display, the total screen area amounts to 59 inches. Nevertheless, touch inputs are only limited to the central 11-inch panel; the larger upper display, situated far from the driver, relies on the touchpads for control. As history shows, touchpads can sometimes create mixed reactions among users.

The two touchpads and the large infotainment screen constitute what Lincoln refers to as their “up and out” user interface philosophy, which aims to align with the driver’s ideal field of vision. The left touchpad manages cruise control and BlueCruise commands, while the right is dedicated to media functions and app interactions displayed on the larger screen.

This design strategy is intended to minimize distractions within the Navigator’s interior, despite the considerable size of the larger screen. The display’s unique positioning encourages drivers to keep their eyes focused “up and out” rather than down and near.

Lincoln’s Design Director Kemal Curić explains that the team drew inspiration from aviation for the new infotainment layout. “We examined pilot workloads and strived to minimize distractions while still providing all necessary information,” he said. “We discovered that while a HUD [head-up display] is beneficial, a large screen presents information in a clearer, more detailed manner.”

“The ‘eyes up and out’ concept proved to be the most effective,” Curić added. “The steering wheel features only haptic controls and two touch buttons, allowing drivers to engage with the touchpads without losing sight of the road. Everything is accessible without removing your hands from the wheel, enabling an enjoyable panoramic view.”

Lincoln aimed to steer clear of incorporating technology for its own sake, a philosophy bolstered by the input of former Apple engineers involved in this new Navigator’s development. Curić emphasizes that any technology introduced into the cabin had to offer real practical benefits. They utilized virtual reality design tools for efficient interior design iteration.

“We started receiving insights from the digital team on screen content early on,” Curić explained. “This wasn’t a case of simply adding hardware for the sake of it; we were focused on the content we would deliver and how we envision this product evolving in 5-10 years, similar to the updates for iPhones,” he continued.

“As we laid things out, we determined the optimal size and arrangement for when driving versus when stationary. We also considered passenger experiences, especially in the second row, using VR tools. This approach marked a significant advancement compared to traditional clay models and paper cutouts.”

The design process involved extensive testing to identify optimal focal points for drivers. Chief Engineer Scott Grandinett noted that Lincoln opted for bigger screens placed farther back on the dashboard rather than closer ones commonly found in many vehicles. “We allocated time to study human factors to find the right balance. Personally, I appreciate the spacious feel it offers inside. Other designs often bring screens too close, which can feel overwhelming. We believe that the combination of open space and visibility will be key here.”

While this innovative approach aims to minimize the need for drivers to constantly shift their focus between the road and a screen, the presence of a large display still presents potential distractions. Therefore, concerns about information overload are valid.

Curić responded, “The rationale behind the 48-inch screen is not merely to display the maximum amount of information but rather to effectively distribute useful information. Think of it like the grand entrance to your house; it’s not about cramming in a lot of furniture but about incorporating the right elements that allow the space to flow.”

Kudos to any automaker trying to innovate, particularly in display technology. Nevertheless, it’s worth noting that touchpads have struggled to gain popularity—just ask Lexus and Acura, both of whom have reverted to conventional touchscreens. Given the Navigator’s wide display and deep dashboard, it would require significant redesigning if Lincoln later decides to shift away from this concept. However, the company seems optimistic that the “up and out” design philosophy paired with the airy interior will resonate well with drivers. Only time will tell.