Large luxury SUVs don’t get more impressive than the Lincoln Navigator. And the 2021 model is certainly making a splash among the critics. It’s a favorite of many with its expansive cargo room, easy-to-use tech, and Matthew McConaughey quality style and luxury. But people also love its incredible power, driven by the turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, capable of towing a whopping 8,700 pounds. 

All of these high-quality extras, of course, come at a price. And looking at the trim levels, the mid-range Reserve seems to be a popular choice. But there is also the Reserve L variation available, but with an added $3,000 cost. What’s the significant difference between the Lincoln Navigator Reserve and the Reserve L, and is it worth the upgrade?

The Lincoln Navigator Reserve doesn’t disappoint

There is serious wow factor when it comes to the 2021 Lincoln Navigator. The Car Connection says it’s “sharp on the outside and stunning on the inside.” And with three trims, each adding a roster of amenities, consumers can carve out their most preferred version.

The Base comes chock-full of standard equipment, and the highest-level Black Label adds a touch of class. But it’s the Reserve trim that seems to be the most widely suggested value proposition.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator Reserve comes with 22-inch wheels, illuminated power running boards, adaptive suspension, and LED headlights. Inside, occupants enjoy a 10-inch infotainment screen, heated and cooled front seats, a heated second row, and smartphone integration.

The driver will also feel in complete control with the heads-up display, the 360-degree camera system, and adaptive cruise control. But what does the Reserve L trim offer this already robust menu of extras?

What the Reserve L trim brings to the table

For those consumers who prefer to go big or go home, the L variation is the option for you. Available this year for the Lincoln Navigator is the long-wheelbase version, tacking on about 10 inches of length to this already behemoth luxury machine.

This expansion can be felt inside with a little more elbow room for the passengers and nook and cranny storage space. It also increases the fuel tank size from 23 gallons to 27 gallons. 

What the Reserve L upgrade doesn’t change

With the long wheelbase or L models, you won’t be able to seat any more than the Reserve’s capacity for eight people. And despite the larger size, Lincoln says the EPA estimates for both the Reserve and the Reserve L versions can expect 16 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway.

The only significant change resulting in the L add-ons is the price. The 2021 Lincoln Navigator Reserve starts at $81,965, with the Reserve L starts at $85,190.

Is the Lincoln Navigator Reserve L worth the extra money?

When you look at what all comes with the Reserve trim and just how little comes with the 10 inches of length in the L version, you might decide to keep that $3,000 in the bank.

But then again, if you’re ready to spend the $80,000, you may decide you want the biggest and the best. In which case, that $3,000 upgrade in the long-wheelbase is money well spent. 

And, if you plan to go all-in with configuring your 2021 Lincoln Navigator, you can add on the Luxury Package to either the Reserve or the Reserve L, adding 30-way power-adjustable front seats and a 20-speaker audio system.

If you have a boat to haul behind your luxury SUV, whether it be the L or standard Reserve length, you can also add on the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package.

With this package, your Navigator will come equipped with a heavy-duty radiator, trailer backup assist, trailer brake controller, and trailer sway control, according to Edmunds.

In the end, only you can decide if the L variation of the 2021 Lincoln Navigator is worth extra money. It’s an option that’s kind of nice to have, especially for those looking for that all-in luxury experience.