About the 2020 Lincoln Aviator

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Lincoln Aviator highlights and features.

For the first time, Lincoln gains a three-row crossover with the debut of the 2020 Aviator. The Lincoln Aviator shares its platform with the Ford Explorer and is situated between the smaller Lincoln Nautilus and the full-sized Lincoln Navigator SUV. Along with the upcoming Lincoln Corsair, Ford’s luxury brand now boasts four utility vehicle models. A fifth model, the MKT, won’t see the 2020 model year.

The 2020 Lincoln Aviator resides on a rear-wheel-drive platform. All-wheel drive is optional. Rear-wheel drive should deliver improved handling benefits against such competitors as the Volvo V90 and the Audi Q7. Most other competitors, however, also utilize rear-wheel drive.

The following are the highlights of the 2020 Aviator:

1. Five trims for your consideration.

Lincoln offers the 2020 Aviator in five trims: Standard ($51,100), Reserve ($56,190), Grand Touring ($68,800), Black Label ($77,695), and Black Label Grand Touring ($87,800). Add $1,095 for the destination charge. With touring and rear-seat entertainment packages included, a fully optioned top-trim model will cost you about $92,000. We’ve seen this price point and higher with the Navigator, with some models topping $100,000.

Black Label models, including this Chalet trim, offer further customization.

2. Two engine choices.

Lincoln offers a pair of 3.0-liter V6 engines with the all-new Aviator. The standard twin-scroll turbocharged engine makes 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. This engine works with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The second choice simply takes this powertrain system and adds a 75-kilowatt electric motor. Thus, you have here a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, the first one for Lincoln. But here’s the real kicker: the hybrid has a total system output of 494 horsepower and 630 pound-feet of torque, which puts this model in the same category as the Porsche Cayenne turbo and the twin-turbo Mercedes AMG GLS 63. And at about half the cost too!

3. Relatively efficient for its class.

We don’t have the fuel economy numbers for the plug-in Aviator yet, but we have what we need for the standard model. This one makes an EPA-estimated 18 mpg in the city, 26 mpg on the highway, and 21 mpg combined for the rear-wheel-drive model. Choose all-wheel drive and those numbers are 17/24/29 mpg city/highway/combined. Thus, the efficiency numbers are laudable, especially considering the power at hand.

4. Luxurious interior with a symphonic touch.

We’ve seen Lincoln up its game in recent years with the Navigator and Continental. The Aviator will reflect those changes with luxury materials throughout. You’ll find wood grain, piano black trim, brushed aluminum, and Alcantara suede. Further, Lincoln drills down on the details, by utilizing musical chimes and warning signals produced by the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. Yes, you’ll enjoy a calming classical response instead of some of the grating tunes we hear with today’s models. Other standard features include soft-touch (imitation leather) and front heated seats.

Fine leathers wrapping supportive seats are available.

5. Top tech features.

You won’t find a stripped-down tech package with the all-new Aviator. Indeed, the Ford Motor Company’s most advanced tech interface, Sync 3, is standard. This voice-recognition communication and entertainment system features a 10.1-inch touch-screen display. It is bundled with an app suite and includes Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. You’ll also find four USB ports and Wi-Fi capability. The audio package includes 10 speakers and satellite radio. Lincoln also includes a 110-volt power outlet in the second row.

6. All the important safety features included.

Manufacturers are upping their safety game, by including numerous driver-assist technologies as standard equipment. The Lincoln Co-Pilot360 suite in the Standard model has forward collision warning, pre-collision assist with pedestrian detection, lane-keep warning and assist, and dynamic brake support. Moreover, a 360-degree camera, active parking assist, adaptive cruise control with full stop and go, lane centering, and evasive steering assist, are among the available upgrades.

7. Black Label in three themes.

Lincoln is doing its best to up its luxury experience through its Black Label suite of upgrades and services. It has worked quite well for other Lincoln models and is now featured with the 2020 Aviator. Here, Lincoln supplies three themes: Flight, Destination, and Chalet. These represent special equipment upgrades, including unique design cues. You’ll also find all package options standard and a panoramic roof with a power sunshade included. Black Label also represents concierge services, complimentary care including annual detailing, and premium maintenance. Lincoln carries the experience further by supplying a complimentary dinner for two for new members at an exclusive restaurant along with travel amenities.

The Lincoln Aviator costs less and offers more than some competing models.

Your Lincoln, Your Way

The all-new Aviator gives Lincoln a credible entry in the utility vehicle market. Utilizing a rear-wheel-drive platform supplies this model with a handling edge and differentiates the Aviator from the front-wheel-drive platform underpinning the Cadillac XT6. Its starting price is strong, but very easily you’ll discover upgrades which can add tens of thousands of dollars to its price.

See Also — Revived Lincoln Aviator Set to Take Flight

Photos copyright the Lincoln Motor Company. All rights reserved.

Matthew Keegan
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