2020 Lincoln Aviator Review: A Luxurious Mid-Sized SUV

The all-new 2020 Lincoln Aviator was first unveiled to the public at the 2018 Los Angeles Auto Show. The Lincoln Aviator is now in its second generation, following its initial release in the early 2000s. While its predecessor was based on the body-on-frame construction of the old Ford Explorer, the next-generation model is built on the same architecture as the latest sixth-generation Explorer.

In Lincoln's current lineup, the 2020 Aviator sits between the Nautilus and the larger Navigator full-sized SUV. Manufactured at the marque’s dedicated Chicago Assembly Facility in the United States, the Aviator represents Lincoln’s first mid-sized three-row (crossover) SUV. According to Lincoln, the brand-new Aviator is the spiritual successor to the erstwhile and awkward-looking MKT. Once it arrives in the UAE, the 2020 Lincoln Aviator will compete with the Audi Q7, BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE, and Volvo XC90.

Exterior

The name ‘Aviator’ isn’t just a random selection; the Lincoln Aviator’s design is reportedly inspired by the world of aviation and aeronautics. According to the company, the new Lincoln Aviator’s exterior styling takes "connotations of flight" intrinsic in the strong front and tapering rear, creating a distinct aerofoil analogy. However, the aeronautical theme may not be immediately apparent.

Nonetheless, the 2020 Lincoln Aviator is a modern and appealing SUV. It features handsome yet sharp lines, soft contours, and plenty of chrome. Up front, the Aviator showcases Lincoln’s large signature grille, stylish all-LED headlamps, and a chiseled lower apron with sleek LED fog lamps. The sculpted hood adds muscularity, while the ‘Aviator’ branding near the front door enhances its character.

The sculpted wing mirrors have a unique design, and the multi-spoke alloy wheels add a sense of class. The Lincoln Aviator’s side profile reveals its “pulled back” and “pinched” rear quarters, contributing to a sporty appeal. The rear is distinctive, featuring a large roof spoiler, prominent ‘Lincoln’ lettering, a full-width LED strip, and clear lens, full-LED tail lamps.

Interior

The interior of the 2020 Lincoln Aviator is one of the best in the industry, particularly in terms of modernity and plushness. It features soft leather, knurled control surfaces, elegant wood finishes, and high-quality switchgear. While there are some less-than-ideal plastics further down in this cabin, the overall feel remains premium. The seats are exceptionally comfortable, an area where Lincoln has excelled recently.

The well-trimmed dashboard and door area may appear busy due to the blend of multiple textures and colors. As a three-row family SUV, usable space is essential. Thankfully, the 2020 Lincoln Aviator excels in this aspect, providing decent room in the third row—more than enough for children. The build quality is commendable, with everything in sight feeling premium.

The Aviator is loaded with features, including:

• Adaptive cruise control
• Adaptive air suspension
• Smartphone-operable car controls
• Adaptive LED headlights
• Full-leather upholstery
• Up to 30-way adjustable front seats with massaging and ventilation
• 28-speaker Revel sound system
• Panoramic glass roof
• Ambient mood lighting
• Fully-digital instrument cluster
• Hands-free tailgate
• 10.1-inch touch infotainment display
• Quad-zone climate control

Engine and Performance

The 2020 Lincoln Aviator is powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, delivering 400 horsepower and 542 newton-meters of torque. A 10-speed automatic transmission handles gear shifts, enabling the Aviator to reach a top speed of 250 km/h with a fuel economy of 10.6 L/100 km for the RWD variant.

Verdict

While Lincoln hasn’t released any prices for the 2020 Aviator in the UAE market, the entry-level RWD trim is priced around USD 52,000 in the United States (approximately AED 191,000). Overall, the 2020 Lincoln Aviator is shaping up to be a stylish, modern, capable, and luxurious mid-sized family SUV.