Lincoln has decided to give a select group of customers $5,000 off the MSRP of either a 2023 Navigator or Navigator Black Edition from January 12 to April 3, 2023, because it could not fill their orders. This certificate can also be used towards a lease.

The news comes from Cars Direct, which managed to get a hold of a bulletin sent to Lincoln dealerships a few weeks ago. This program is called the "2023-Model Navigator Connect Model Year Transition Private Offer," and it's part of a larger effort to retain wealthy customers rather than see them shop elsewhere, like Cadillac, Jeep, or Land Rover.

Program details are scarce, but we've known Ford and Lincoln, like all other automakers, have faced serious supply chain issues as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

The Louisville, Kentucky-built fourth-generation Navigator (and its Expedition corporate twin) has been immensely popular since it hit the market for the 2018 model year. It received a mid-life facelift in 2022, which brought things like a freshened grille, adaptive pixel headlights, and 3D taillights.

The interior was the recipient of the most significant upgrades, such as the now-standard cloud-connected SYNC 4 infotainment system and a 13.2-inch screen with Apply CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa.

Things didn't change under the hood, and that's not a bad thing. The excellent twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 with 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque remains, and it's paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Adaptive Suspension with Road Preview offers an ultra-smooth ride with up to 100 adjustments per second.

The Navigator has also attracted many younger buyers, specifically those in their late 40s and early 50s.

The base Navigator, for example, draws customers with an average age of 52. The Black Label, however, sees buyers with an average age of just 48. Younger buyers play a critical role in the success of makes and models. Lincoln is keenly aware of this, hence its decision to offer these customers the certificate that will, hopefully, help make up for the fact they still need to receive their 2022 Navigators.

Earlier this month, Ford began offering 2023 Bronco customers $2,500 to cancel their orders and buy another vehicle because demand for the SUV remains exceptionally high.