History/Overview
In 2020, the Lincoln Aviator replaced the MKT as the brand’s three-row mid-size crossover SUV model, slotting in below the full-size truck-based Navigator.
What’s New/Key Changes From Last Year
For 2022, Lincoln has added new functions to its Co-Pilot360 Plus suite of driver assists, prompting it to rename the package Co-Pilot360 1.5 Plus.
Available Trims
Lincoln offers the Aviator in Reserve and Grand Touring trim levels. Reserve is powered by a 3.0L turbo V6 and a 10-speed transmission with AWD. Grand Touring gets the same engine, but with a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) system that adds power and promises 34 km of electric range on a full charge, and comes mated to a continuously variable transmission that is also standard with AWD.
Standard Features
Reserve trim’s standard features include an adaptive suspension, passive keyless entry, rain-sensing wipers, 20-inch wheels, LED headlights with automatic high beams, a hands-free tailgate, and heated/power-folding side mirrors with driver’s side auto-dimming.
The Aviator’s base cabin features ambient lighting, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, four-zone A/C, a leather-trimmed heated steering wheel, 10.1-inch touchscreen, power steering column, garage door remote, a panoramic sunroof, wireless smartphone charging, navigation, Bridge of Weir leather upholstery, heated/ventilated front and second-row seats, and 12-way power front seats.
Lane-keeping assist is standard, along with blind spot detection, front and rear parking sensors, cross-traffic alert with auto braking, 360-degree camera views, and forward collision detection with emergency braking.
Grand Touring models add 21-inch wheels, LED daytime running lights, and Lincoln Drive Control.
Key Options
An Aviator Reserve 201A package adds a luxury package (30-way front seats and a Revel stereo), a head-up display, phone-as-a-key technology, and the Co-Pilot360 1.5 Plus system.
In Grand Touring trim, the 301A option pack is similar to 201A, but adds an illumination package.
Fuel Economy
Lincoln’s fuel consumption estimates for the Aviator are 13.7/9.7 L/100 km (city/highway) for the Reserve’s gas powertrain. Grand Touring’s PHEV setup is rated for 10.9/9.6 L/100 km when running as a gas-electric hybrid, and 4.2 Le/100 km in all-electric mode.
Competition
With the Aviator, Lincoln hopes to attract shoppers who might otherwise consider the Land Rover Range Rover, Audi Q7, BMW X7, Volvo XC90, and Mercedes-Benz GLS.