2020 Lincoln Aviator Returns After A 13-Year Absence: Comments

[William Maley]

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Lincoln chose the LA Auto Show to unveil the production version of the 2020 Aviator.

We're glad to see that Lincoln hasn't changed the Aviator's design from the 'concept' shown at the New York Auto Show back in the spring. It looks like a sleeker version of the full-size Navigator with a  sloping, tapering roofline and sculpted sides. The front end looks more akin to the Contiental and MKZ with a smaller grille and similar headlights. Wheels range in size from 19 to 21-inches.

The interior goes for a minimalist look with a low-slung dash and a small number of buttons. There is a large amount of leather, wood, and brushed trim used throughout. Lincoln will be offering seating configurations for six or seven people. The Aviator will also be pushing technology as a selling point. For starters, you can use your phone as the Aviator's key via the Lincoln Way app. This will allow you to lock/unlock and start the vehicle remotely. You'll be able to register four smartphones to act as the key. Other tech features include a 12.3-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and Co-Pilot360 Plus that brings a number of driver assistance features such as traffic sign recognition and active park assist.

There will be two variants of a 3.0L twin-turbo V6. The standard engine produces 400 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque. A plug-in hybrid variant bumps power to 450 horsepower and a shocking 600 pound-feet of torque. Both engines are paired with a ten-speed automatic, and the choice of rear or all-wheel drive.

Lincoln hasn't provided any details on electric range, recharging times, or fuel economy figures for the plug-in hybrid variant. They do mention the hybrid system is modular, meaning we'll likely see this in other Lincoln and Ford models in the future.

Optional on the Aviator is what Lincoln calls Air Glide. This adaptive air suspension uses a camera to scan the road ahead and adjust the damping to provide a smooth ride. But the system will lower the Aviator when parked to make it look more attractive. The system will lower the vehicle to also make it easier for passengers to enter and exit the vehicle.

Lincoln is keeping quiet on pricing, but did reveal that the Aviator will be available at dealers beginning next summer.

Gallery: 2020 Lincoln Aviator

Source: Lincoln

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All-New Lincoln Aviator Takes Flight with Advanced Technologies, Grand Touring Performance Option

• All-new Lincoln Aviator brings Lincoln’s design vision to life, elevating beauty and performance in the brand’s newest SUV  
• Aviator Grand Touring, with its advanced electrified hybrid technology, introduces a new level of performance from The Lincoln Motor Company
• Intuitive and industry-leading technologies, including Phone As A Key, are designed to create an effortless experience for drivers in the all-new Aviator

LOS ANGELES, Nov. 28, 2018 – The all-new 2020 Lincoln Aviator touches down at the Los Angeles Auto Show this week with advanced technologies that let the luxury SUV kneel to greet you, scan the road ahead for uneven pavement, and allow you to drive away using your smartphone instead of a key.

The three-row, midsize premium utility elevates Lincoln’s design vision while delivering on Quiet Flight, a key brand concept that supports tenets of beauty, gliding, human and a crafted sanctuary. Lincoln Aviator will be available globally, entering the highest volume segment in the U.S., the midsize luxury market, and the third-highest volume segment in China.

Also debuting is the Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring, named for its gliding power and effortless performance. This marks the first time the company has combined a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine and advanced electrified hybrid technology capable of delivering smooth performance and instantaneous torque.

“Aviator represents the very best of our brand DNA and signals the direction for Lincoln vehicles going forward,” says Joy Falotico, president, The Lincoln Motor Company. “It offers elegance, effortless performance and unparalleled comfort – a true representation of Lincoln’s vision for the future.”

Power, capability and choice
Aviator offers the kind of capability premium clients require in a three-row SUV, with available all-wheel drive and a choice of gas or hybrid powertrain. The standard twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, paired with a 10-speed SelectShift® automatic transmission, is expected to deliver an impressive 400 horsepower and 400 lb.-ft. of torque for effortless acceleration.

With the hybrid option, Aviator Grand Touring’s twin-turbocharged engine and advanced electrified technology is targeted to deliver even greater levels of performance. Projected to produce 450 horsepower and a massive 600 lb.-ft. of torque, the all-new Aviator Grand Touring is expected to deliver greater performance than many three-row, midsize luxury hybrid SUVs.

“This is our most advanced hybrid technology,” says John Davis, chief program engineer, The Lincoln Motor Company. “Together with the standard twin-turbocharged gas engine and advanced electrified Grand Touring technology, Aviator is set to define effortless performance – performance that only Lincoln can deliver.” 

Lincoln Drive Modes allow clients to further customize their drive experience, while a 12.3-inch standard configurable LCD instrument cluster confirms their choices with beautiful, easy-to-read dynamic graphics and prompts. In addition to Lincoln’s five signature settings – Normal, Conserve, Excite, Slippery and Deep Conditions – two new modes are engineered specifically for Aviator Grand Touring. These modes, Pure EV and Preserve EV, allow clients to choose when and how to best use their electric energy, while an enhanced Excite mode helps maximize performance.

Client-focused, intuitive technologies
Aviator delivers a wealth of intuitive technologies designed to assist the driver while enhancing the overall experience of the journey. Right from the start, its suspension system automatically lowers the vehicle to “greet” the driver, adding a new level of sophistication to Lincoln’s signature welcome lighting embrace. The convenience of this feature makes loading cargo easier as well.*

The effortlessness of the overall experience continues as clients enter, using their compatible smartphone as a key to access their vehicle. Lincoln’s Phone As A Key technology, debuting in the all-new Aviator, is activated through the Lincoln Way™ app. It allows owners to lock and unlock, open the liftgate and, most importantly, start and drive the vehicle – all without a traditional key.

Phone As A Key offers additional amenities. Drivers can recall individual preferences for adjusting seat, mirror and steering column positions. Comfort and entertainment settings can be activated through the feature as well. If owners want to loan their Aviator to a family member or friend, the technology makes that equally effortless too, as up to four “keys” are provided with each vehicle in addition to the standard smart key fob. 

Should a phone battery go dead, a passcode can be entered on the standard exterior keypad to gain entry then a backup code can be entered on the center touch screen to start and drive the vehicle. If a phone is lost or stolen, Phone As A Key can be easily deleted, providing additional peace of mind for clients.

Also new to Lincoln is an available technology that enables Aviator to “see” most potholes or uneven pavement and immediately make suspension adjustments to keep the ride as smooth as possible. Adaptive Suspension with Road Preview uses an advanced forward camera to constantly scan the road, seamlessly adjusting the suspension as needed.

All Lincoln vehicles come standard with a suite of driver-assist features known as Lincoln Co-Pilot360™. With the arrival of Aviator, Lincoln’s most advanced suite of driver-assist technologies will be available in a new upgrade aptly named Lincoln Co-Pilot360™ Plus. It adds:

• Traffic Jam Assist helps guide the vehicle using adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, lane centering and traffic sign recognition, which scans speed limit signs along the roadway, adjusting speed based on the information obtained
• Evasive Steer Assist offers assistance to the driver to help avoid a collision with a slower or stopped vehicle; it provides additional steering support when a collision cannot be avoided by braking alone
• Reverse Brake Assist can help you stop the vehicle while backing up if Aviator’s integrated rear sensors and camera detect an obstacle at the rear
• Active Park Assist Plus removes the stress from parking by taking over steering, shifting, braking and acceleration functions with the touch of a button to navigate parallel and perpendicular parking spaces with ease

“All of this innovative technology is purposeful,” says Falotico. “Together, these features help make Aviator’s drive experience even more effortless and intuitive.”

Aeronautical inspiration
The boundless allure of flight has long inspired automotive design, and the all-new Lincoln Aviator takes that inspiration to the next level.

“The connotations of flight are intrinsic in the lines of the vehicle,” says David Woodhouse, design director, The Lincoln Motor Company. “You have the stature and presence of the grille at the front, then the body and tail taper off – creating a distinct aerofoil analogy.”

The dramatic lines of Aviator exemplify Woodhouse’s views on luxury. “Luxury is about creating something you didn’t know was possible,” he says. “It requires a certain degree of mystery, seduction and allure – factors that are decidedly in play with Aviator.”

Aviator’s iridescent Flight Blue exterior color on display in Los Angeles complements its flowing lines. Lincoln’s signature grille is executed in high-gloss black and chrome accents that beckon the eye, while a wraparound windshield completes the aviation-inspired theme.

An all-new Lincoln Black Label theme, Flight, harmoniously combines Luggage Tan and Ebony, further elevating the ambience of the cabin. Bright engine turn appliqués, brushed in small circles, replicate the finish of early aviation instrument panels and enhance the theme. The supple leather of the seats is minimally processed to retain its natural texture.

Chalet is another Lincoln Black Label option for Aviator, evoking the contrasting pleasures of mountain slopes and the inherent comfort of an après-ski lodge. With Espresso and Alpine Venetian leathers and deep Silverwood appliqués, each touch is designed to awaken the senses. 

Another Lincoln Black Label theme available is Destination. Celebrating the art of travel, Destination takes its inspiration from vintage luggage, harkening back to a time when travel was rich with excitement and intrigue. Mahogany Red Venetian leather with an intricate diamond weave on the seats is complemented by smooth khaya wood appliqués – making travel both near and far a true pleasure.

Lincoln Black Label is created for clients seeking the ultimate in a luxury experience, offering premium materials in specially curated designer themes and a host of membership privileges. The grille for the all-new Lincoln Black Label Aviator features reverse lattice mesh with a repetitive pattern of strong, bright-finished badge motifs.

The signature grille for Lincoln Black Label Aviator Grand Touring features unique Lincoln stars embedded within the quadrants in an elegant chrome finish, while the grille for Aviator Grand Touring is also adorned with the embedded stars.

Comfort and convenience
Aviator’s spacious, airy cabin accentuates horizontal lines, minimizing visual clutter to deliver a soothing sanctuary. An available Revel™ Ultima™ 3D Audio System re-creates an authentic concert-hall experience by immersing occupants in rich, superior sound emanating from 28 speakers throughout the cabin.

An ergonomically advanced steering wheel is intended for ultimate ease of use and customization; only subtle thumb movements at the 10 o’clock position are needed to access the voice command button. The steering wheel features streamlined, four-way switches at strategic positions to control music, phone and navigation functions.

Available Perfect Position seats with Active Motion offer 30-way adjustability, massage capability and additional lumbar support for driver and front-row passenger for paramount comfort, while flexible second-row seats recline, adjust fore and aft, and slide forward for easy access to the third row. The third row provides ample seating with plenty of room left over for cargo, assuring nothing and no one is left behind. Advanced under-floor battery packaging in the Grand Touring edition allows for all the benefits of an electrified powertrain without compromising luggage space or legroom.

Other convenience features include an available wireless phone charging pad located in the front-row center armrest, while a handy media bin is available for the front-row passenger. Multiple power outlets throughout the cabin and a standard Wi-Fi hotspot keep occupants connected wherever the journey may take them.

“At Lincoln, we’re always thinking about the next, best way to elevate luxury for our clients,” says Falotico. “Aviator arrives at this perfect intersection – where strength and beauty meet performance and technology.” 

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[frogger]

Nice but too much shiny/chrome finish for me inside and out.

 

 

[Paolino]

I'm so unexcited about this.. granted this doesn't cater to me, but nothing at all made me think, "Wow!"

[ccap41]

My god is this good looking... 

[Robert Hall]

I like the look inside and out...very clean.  

[G. David Felt]

Love the look inside and out, especially the Mocha brown interior just rocks. 

ONE BIG PROBLEM - Way too much baby boomer Chrome! WTF ?‍♂️

I honestly do not get why people think Chrome on everything makes it look better and is luxury. 

I hope they have a monochromatic option. 

[Robert Hall]

14 minutes ago, dfelt said:

Love the look inside and out, especially the Mocha brown interior just rocks. 

ONE BIG PROBLEM - Way too much baby boomer Chrome! WTF ?‍♂️

I honestly do not get why people think Chrome on everything makes it look better and is luxury. 

Different people, different tastes. It's good for the mfgrs to offer choices of trim.   I like a subtle use of chrome. I don't like monochromatic--that's a tired '80s-90s thing to me.  And I really don't like blacked out trim, except maybe on sports cars.  And esp. white SUVs w/ black wheels..so overdone.?

Edited November 28, 2018 by Robert Hall

[riviera74]

Compared to a Lincoln Town Car or Continental of, say, 1980, I think this Aviator is rather tasteful on the chrome.  A little goes a long way and too much is simply too much. Well done.

[regfootball]

honestly, RWD platform, 400hp v6, nice styling inside and out, this is an unexpected big win for Lincoln and Ford.  And it will fund the next cop car/SUV chassis.

My op of Ford is down the last few years but they did good with this one.  May make the Cadillac XT67 look like crap possibly if it is lacking 400hp or a good dynamic chassis or LAVISH interior.

[ccap41]

I'm open about disliking chrome on vehicles but the only part of this that screams "too much chrome" is the mirror caps. Everything else seems tasteful, and I'm not a fan of chrome.

I'm sure if I had the 70k for an Aviator I would also be okay having a shop paint the mirror caps for another grand. 

[A Horse With No Name]

23 minutes ago, riviera74 said:

Compared to a Lincoln Town Car or Continental of, say, 1980, I think this Aviator is rather tasteful on the chrome.  A little goes a long way and too much is simply too much. Well done.

I am the least shy of anyone here at being critical of Ford...all I can say is....this thing is gorgeous. Could turn me into an SUV enthusiast.   A very hearty well done to the blue oval boys. 

12 minutes ago, ccap41 said:

I'm open about disliking chrome on vehicles but the only part of this that screams "too much chrome" is the mirror caps. Everything else seems tasteful, and I'm not a fan of chrome.

I'm sure if I had the 70k for an Aviator I would also be okay having a shop paint the mirror caps for another grand. 

Hell...if I had 70 grand lying around I would buy this thing for you. Painted mirror caps or not...its hot. 

25 minutes ago, regfootball said:

honestly, RWD platform, 400hp v6, nice styling inside and out, this is an unexpected big win for Lincoln and Ford.  And it will fund the next cop car/SUV chassis.

My op of Ford is down the last few years but they did good with this one.  May make the Cadillac XT67 look like crap possibly if it is lacking 400hp or a good dynamic chassis or LAVISH interior.

Quoted for truth. 

[frogger]

Cup holders, all the interior storage doors and knobs, door release, steering wheel 6 o'clock, all the toggles, vents, center console, LOL even the ICE screen has chrome around it.  I wonder if they offer accessory floor mats with chrome around them.

 

 

[ykX]

I really like it as well.  I think it is done pretty tastefully.

[ccap41]

@Drew Dowdell, are you out in LA checking this out? 

[Drew Dowdell]

Yes, it's fantastic. If Lincoln can market it right it will become a segment leader.

[regfootball]

Is Ford going to show the Explorer yet or is that saved for Detroit?

[Suaviloquent]

I think Lincoln can make good on SUVs. Especially with their naming scheme.

 

you can get a Q7...GLE....or the Aviator or Velawhrrrrr....

 

Cheers to the not as big selling in terms of numbers brands that have prestigious names!

i think the best thing about this Aviator, is that a lot of it screams traditional American luxury, but it’s done the right way. RWD. 400 hp base engine. Strong tranny. 

 

This is the 2020 model year Lincoln Continental.

It has the fixed door handles.  Yeah just a mild refresh, typical Lincoln bean counter release

[ocnblu]

SWAGGER.  My jaw is DROPPED.  So sexy and upscale, through and through.  A truly desirable product!  Bravo Lincoln!

[NINETY EIGHT REGENCY]

Nice. It is really nice. It will hopefully be a hit like Navigator. How is it Lincoln makes unashamed American luxury and Cadillac does not?  They got this vehicle right. Lincoln has quietly been rebuilding the brand. I think Lincoln is doing suv's and crossovers like they did luxury cars back in the day. 

 

 

[daves87rs]

17 hours ago, ccap41 said:

My god is this good looking... 

I would have to agree...have to say it caught my attention pretty quick...simple-yet clean.....