What is the Aviator?
The Aviator is a midsize three-row SUV that slots in between the larger Navigator and smaller Nautilus in Lincoln's lineup. Based on the Ford Explorer, the Aviator provides high levels of passenger comfort and quick acceleration from its 400-horsepower twin-turbo V6 engine. There's also a plug-in hybrid version of the same motor if you want a lot more power (494 hp, 630 lb-ft) and a brush with EV life.
With power numbers like these, we don't foresee any changes to the Aviator's powertrain for the 2024 model year. But we have seen photos of a camouflaged Aviator, which means it's likely to get a light to moderate styling makeover, both front and rear. More spy photos show an updated interior with a larger infotainment screen with what looks to be Google software running the show. Ford and Lincoln seem to be following in the footsteps of Polestar, Volvo, Cadillac, Chevrolet and others in offering Google built-in infotainment systems.
We also think it's likely the Aviator will get Lincoln's version of Ford's acclaimed BlueCruise semi-automated driving system. It seems like a no-brainer for Lincoln to add the system, known as ActiveGlide, to the Aviator, which should give it a leg up in a hotly contested class. Other three-row luxury SUVs include the BMW X5, the Genesis GV80, Acura MDX and the Mercedes-Benz GLE.