2020 Lincoln Aviator Review

The base and midlevel models come with a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 that puts out 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque. That's more than enough to get this big three-row moving. It accelerates smoothly from a stop and passes on the highway with ease. The standard Aviator is big, but it's also surprisingly swift around corners. Our test vehicle was equipped with an optional air suspension. So equipped, the Aviator moves from corner to corner with ease.

The topped-out Aviator Grand Touring comes as a plug-in hybrid. You get the same twin-turbo V6, but it's paired to an electric motor that increases power output to 494 horsepower and 630 lb-ft of torque. Unlike some other hybrids, the Aviator doesn't feel like it's tuned for fuel economy. Rather, this system is more for a burst of extra power at low speeds. It also fills in the gaps between shifts nicely. Placed in the EV-only mode, this powertrain provides about 18 miles of all-electric range before this big SUV switches over to normal hybrid mode.

The Aviator's steering has an excellent on-center feel, and it's well-weighted. Even with the higher-horsepower plug-in hybrid, you won't confuse the Aviator for a shouty AMG Mercedes or an M Sport BMW SUV, but it reacts to driver inputs well. The 10-speed automatic shifts quickly. And on the highway, things are impressively quiet. The only real noise comes from the tires at highway speeds.

The Aviator comes in a number of available trim levels, but even on the base and midlevel trims, it feels put together nicely. You'll find quality materials and crisp displays all around. In the cabin, there's lots of space to move around in the first and second rows. Even the third row can accommodate two adults, at least for a short trip. You also get an increasingly luxurious experience in the Aviator's Reserve and Grand Touring trims. They add options such as plush leather seating, 30-way-adjustable heated and ventilated seats, and even an available 28-speaker stereo.

For the driver, there are a lot of controls at the helm. The steering wheel is packed with redundant controls, but none of them seem like overkill. The track-skip and volume functions, for example, are all controlled by one directional knob, while the cruise control functions are all hidden and only light up on the steering wheel when you're ready to engage them. Then, there's a 10.1-inch touchscreen at the center of the dashboard that displays all the infotainment functions. It's crisp, clear and impressively large.