2020 Lincoln Aviator Review: A Brute In A Burberry Coat

The Lincoln Aviator will most likely find its home with families that won't simply visit their nearest BMW dealership, get the latest SUV, and blend in with the rest of the picket-fenced neighborhood. This SUV will attract those looking for something a little different. The good news is, if you're looking for a taste of something unconventional, the Aviator will give you just that without straying too far from home. Based on the Ford Explorer, it's an all-American SUV that went to private school. Thanks to its infinitely competent twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine that smashes out 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, it passed with flying colors. We also love the clean and simple approach Lincoln took for the cabin of the SUV, blending deluxe materials and up-to-the-minute technology effortlessly. Still, unforgiving rivals like the Volvo XC90 and the BMW X5 boast some extra agility and opulence.

What's the Price of the 2020 Lincoln Aviator?

The entry point of the Aviator lineup has a starting MSRP of $51,100 in FWD guise, and adding AWD will hike the price up to $53,600. The mid-level Reserve model has a $56,190 price tag that also rises by $2,500 when AWD is opted for. A very large price jump is seen between this model and the Black Label, with the top-level model increasing its asking price to $77,695. All prices are exclusive of the $1,095 destination charge.

2020 Aviator Exterior

Dimensions

2020 Aviator Performance

Handling and Driving Impressions

One of the things that the Aviator does best is its outstanding ability to sail over bumps and untoward obstacles in the road, and only truly menacing flaws will be enough to bring unsettlement into the cabin. The superb ride quality is made even more plush by the optional adaptive suspension setup, but it comes with a considerable markup and is only available for Reserve models and higher with all-wheel-drive equipped. Impressively, even with bigger wheels, the Aviator maintains its composure on uneven roads. Engine noise is also firmly refused by the inside of the Aviator despite the throaty V6's eager soundtrack, and the experience from inside is equally as impressive for the occupants as it is for the driver. The SUV is pleasantly buttoned-down for the sheer size of it, and it handles corners with aplomb. Possibly the only downside of the Aviator from behind the wheel is the steering, which is almost completely absent of road feel. It also hesitates to center again after turning, which isn't a huge problem, but it can be a bit of a nuisance when you deal with it every day.

2020 Aviator Interior

2020 Aviator Trunk and Cargo Space

Warranty

US NHTSA Crash Test Result

Verdict: Is the 2020 Lincoln Aviator A Good SUV?

The Aviator is a worthy challenge to longtime players like the Audi Q7 and the Volvo XC90. It has a powerful engine that either surpasses rivals or sticks with them. It has an affordable asking price when compared against competitors, but it arguably lacks the opulence offered by its German counterparts. That being said, its interior is a definite win for the Aviator, thanks to a fully digital cabin and plush materials. Speaking of plush, the ride quality is superbly cushioned and improved even further by the optional adaptive suspension.

What Lincoln Aviator Model Should I Buy?

While the base model is considerably well-stocked in terms of standard features, we'd opt for the Reserve model as it adds the most in terms of value for money. We doubt that the Black Label's considerably large price hike is worth it when all things are considered. So, opt for the mid-range model and use the extra cash you've saved to access the Convenience Package that adds a head-up display and a wireless charging pad as well as the ability to use your phone as a key for $2,200.

2020 Lincoln Aviator Comparisons

2020 Lincoln Aviator vs Lincoln Navigator

While both SUVs are based on Ford Platforms, the Navigator is larger in size. This inevitably results in the Aviator's interior being considerably smaller, especially when we consider the space in the third row. Their close relation means that they have similar interior setups, and both of them offer undeniably premium cabins, though the Navigator's large stature allows for some extra space. At first glance, it's clear that they share DNA, but the powerhouses behind the SUV are different. While the Lincoln Aviator utilizes a smaller engine, the Navigator relies on a 450 hp 3.5-liter V6 that's aided by two turbochargers. The better choice of the two will depend entirely on what you're looking for. If space is a priority, the Navigator will win the fight, but if your budget is a concern and you don't need the extra room, the Aviator will fare just fine.

2020 Lincoln Aviator vs Ford Explorer

The Aviator may take cues from the Ford Explorer in terms of its platform, but the two are worlds apart at their core. While the Aviator puts most of its focus on being a decadent SUV offering with more luxury than you'd know what to do with, the Explorer commits to being a trust family SUV that Americans love. It's difficult to tell that the two are related just from looking at them because the Aviator is much more deluxe both on the outside and the inside. It comes with a far better cabin and the only thing the two have in common in terms of standard convenience features is Ford's Sync 3 infotainment system. That being said, the Explorer offers better fuel economy figures and far better value for money. It's unlikely that these two SUVs will attract the same buyers, but the Aviator is only the better choice if luxury is your primary concern.