Lincoln Aviator 2023/In 2020, Lincoln revived the Aviator moniker after a 15-year absence. This second-generation Aviator is related to the Ford Explorer, much as the 2003–2005 model was, but unlike the too-recognizable first generation, you wouldn’t know it by appearance. The 2022 Aviator is a robust and wealthy vehicle that is a pleasure to drive. It caters to those who value creature amenities like a top-notch audio system and desires cars with enough storage capacity and seating for six or seven people (depending on the model).
The Aviator hasn’t undergone much modification this year, but it wasn’t essential. Given its beautiful design, plush interior, and plenty of technology and conveniences, it isn’t easy to see how Lincoln will improve the Aviator with each new model year. While 2023 won’t see any significant modifications, 2022 saw a few tech features become standard on specific models, new colors, and an optional Jet look package. In 2024, a substantial upgrade of the Aviator is anticipated.
The Aviator is all about calm, luxury, and an opulent ride, even if it is less agile than competitors like the Audi Q7, BMW X5, or Volvo XC90. Driving fans will like the power and torque that the Aviator’s engine choices provide. Still, unlike some of its rivals, the Aviator is content to run on conventional gasoline rather than expensive fuel. For a vehicle of its size, the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version of the Aviator delivers fuel efficiency figures that are difficult to match.
Standard and Reserve variants of Aviators are offered with a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 rated at 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. The plug-in hybrid version of the Aviator (available in Grand Touring, Black Label, and Black Label Grand Touring variants) raises those statistics to 494 and 630, respectively, even tho it is an engine choice. The sole available gearbox is a 10-speed automatic, modified for PHEV versions. Acceleration is almost effortless with so much power and torque, and the Aviator is enjoyable to drive.
The Aviator’s interior is all about room, comfort, and elegance. Third-row seats are standard on all models, except the Standard trim, and leather seats are included. The Aviator is practically full-size with a total length of 199.3 inches, and the front and second rows of passengers have more legroom than they know what to do with (43 and 40.1 inches, respectively). Depending on their size and height, third-row passengers may find it a tighter fit (with just 29.2 inches of legroom).
The Aviator has a lot of safety and security measures, although some of the more cutting-edge ones are only offered (or come as standard equipment) on the more costly trims. The Aviator receives high reviews for its onboard technologies. The PHEV system runs without a hitch, and the optional head-up display is a beautiful luxury. The stereo system is also excellent.
Performance: Lincoln Aviator
A 10-speed automatic gearbox is mated to a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 with 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque that powers the Aviator. The Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) version uses the same engine and gearbox but adds a 13.6 kWh battery and an electric motor, increasing horsepower and torque to a satisfying 494 and 630, respectively.
To control power and torque, the driver may choose one of five driving modes (Normal, Conserve, Excite, Slippery, and Deep Conditions). Two extra driving modes are available to PHEV owners: Pure EV maintains the Aviator in a pure electric manner, while Preserve EV preserves saved energy for later.
The PHEV version of the Aviator is what drivers who like aggressive driving will desire. Acceleration is made simple by the torque and power combination, mainly because all torque is accessible at a low 2,250 rpm. The battery has enough power to provide 21 miles of all-electric driving for those occasions when it makes sense.
All-wheel drive is a standard feature on PHEV versions, whereas rear-wheel drive is the default on non-PHEV vehicles. Depending on the model, the maximum towing capacity is between 5,600 and 6,700 lbs.
Fuel efficiency: Lincoln Aviator
The Volvo XC90 gets 23.3 mpg (66 MPGe for the PHEV with extended range), the Audi Q7 is rated at 19.6 mpg (no PHEV version is available), and the Aviator gets an average combined mpg of 20.5 (56 MPGe for the PHEV). By comparison, competitors like the BMW X5 deliver an average of 18.8 mpg (50 MPGe for the PHEV), and the Audi Q7 is rated at 19.
The Aviator’s rear-wheel drive model gets 21 mpg, while the all-wheel drive model gets only one mpg less (20 mpg).
Compared to the competition, the Aviator’s electric-only range for PHEV models, at 21 miles, is at the bottom. The Volvo XC90 delivers 18 or 36 miles, depending on the PHEV variant, while the BMW X5 gives 31 miles.
Safety & Driver Support
According to the IIHS, the Aviator is a Top Safety Pick, and the NHTSA awards it a 5-star overall rating. Rear parking sensors, a rearview camera with camera wash, cross-traffic alert with braking, lane-keeping system, pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking, automatic high-beam headlamps, blind-spot information systems, and automatic high-beam headlamps are all included in the Lincoln Co-Pilot360 1.5 package, which is standard on all models.
In addition to active park assist 2.0, intelligent adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, lane centering assistance, speed sign recognition, evasive steering assistance, forward/side/rear parking sensors, reverse brake assist, and distance indication and alert, the Lincoln Co-Pilot360 1.5 Plus package is an optional feature that is available on higher trim levels.
Though theoretically an excellent concept, speed sign recognition only works when the camera can view the signs. The system may deceive the driver if the vision is obscured. The driver may adjust the view angle on the rearview camera, although it is a little too dark for nighttime backing in certain situations.
Comfort and Space
The Aviator was built with comfort in mind, and both first- and second-row passengers benefit from class-leading legroom that is much beyond the competitors. However, third-row legroom is comparable to the Audi Q7 (29.2 inches) but less generous than the Volvo XC90 (31.9 inches).
Lincoln only refers to these seats as “Soft Touch” on the base model. The leather on the other versions is top-notch. A luxury option is offered with 30-way power-adjustable seats for the driver and front-row passenger, replete with massaging function, in case the regular power front seats aren’t pleasant enough (doubtful). These may be altered to support each particular thigh and the whole body.
Second-row seats are similarly quite comfortable, although third-row passengers may feel as if their knees are pressed up to their ears, depending on their height. Although not terrible, the third row is not the best option for longer or taller passengers.
Infotainment: Lincoln Aviator
All variants have Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Lincoln’s SYNC 3 infotainment system with speech recognition, and a 10.1-inch touchscreen.
A voice-activated touchscreen navigation system with pinch-to-zoom functionality and integrated SiriusXM Traffic is standard and optional on all other models.
A 5.8-inch second-row radio and temperature settings screen is standard on all variants (except the basic). All variants include standard smart-charging USB ports for the first and second rows (2 USB-A and 2 USB-C). Ten devices may connect simultaneously using the traditional across-the-board Lincoln Connect system, which has 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot functionality.
A head-up display is available, albeit not required, but only as part of extra packages for higher-trim cars. It’s an excellent tool since it lets drivers always keep their eyes on the road. Ambient lighting is another nice-to-have feature, although it’s not included on the basic model (it comes standard on all other trims).
Storage & Cargo Space:
One of the Aviator’s advantages is its storage capacity. There are various cubby holes throughout the place where little goods may be kept. A vast, lighted center console is located between the driver and front passenger, and vehicles with second-row captain’s chairs also have a console between the second-row seats.
To optimize cargo space, which is 41.8 cubic feet behind the second row, 77.7 cubic feet behind the third row, and 18.3 cubic feet behind the second row, both the second and third rows of seats may be folded flat. O ly the Volvo XC90 has larger cargo space behind the first, second, and third rows, with 80.3, 49.6, and 21.8 cubic feet, respectively. Concerning cargo space, the BMW X5 and Audi Q7 are ranked third and fourth, respectively.
Design: Lincoln Aviator
The Aviator is a robust and elegant vehicle with a muscular build and a cozy cabin. The doors shut with a firm thud, the knobs and switches seem sturdy, and the seats are luxurious but supportive. It has a vast, opulent vibe reminiscent of an old-fashioned Lincoln.
Even if the carmaker charges a premium for this luxury SUV, they still provide a premium product that will wow bystanders and delight passengers.
Is the 2022 Lincoln Aviator Worth it?
It’s tough to criticize the Aviator. It is a must-see for customers who purchase a premium mid-size SUV since it is stylish, comfy, and capable of transporting freight and passengers comfortably.
Pricing for the Standard rear-wheel drive model begins at $52,975 (including a $1,195 destination fee). Still, the Grand Touring all-wheel drive model ($69,875, including destination fee) offers the best value if you want to experience the Lincoln experience, complete with all the amenities that make a luxury SUV worthwhile.
The plug-in hybrid engine, which increases power and torque and makes the Aviator a true delight to drive, is included in addition to the fact that it has most of the creature comforts and luxuries that purchasers of luxury SUVs would want.
How Much Does the Lincoln Aviator Cost to Insure?
The Aviator’s insurance prices are comparable to those of its primary rivals. Depending on the m el, an average yearly premium for a 30-year-old female driver with a clean driving record ranges from $2,454 to $3,101. By comparison, the MW X5 premium ranges from $2,742 to $3,968, and the Audi Q7 premium ranges from $2,741 to $2,976. The Volvo XC90 has the cheapest insurance rates, ranging from $2,202 to $2,552.
Verdict
A beguiling combination of fashion, comfort, and performance can be found in the second-generation Lincoln Aviator. The elegant and contemporary interior pampers guests with the newest gadgets and a top-notch music system. A powerful and responsive engine is further improved when paired with the optional plug-in hybrid system, achieving respectable fuel efficiency numbers. The fact that the Aviator merely requires regular-grade gasoline while all of its rivals need premium fuel is a huge benefit.
