2020 Lincoln Aviator Pros vs Cons

The 2020 Lincoln Aviator is a mid-size SUV that offers a lot in terms of power, convenience, safety, and roominess. It has stylish looks to match its modern feel, and it fits the bill if anyone is searching specifically for a vehicle with luxury amenities. For those who prefer to save gas, the SUV is available as a plug-in hybrid. Below, there are 10 reasons why the Lincoln Aviator is a smart buy, along with a few reasons why it might not be.

What's New for 2020?

The Lincoln Aviator was first released in 2003 and had a short initial run, lasting until 2005. Lincoln revamped almost everything on this mid-size SUV for 2020 so it would be ready to make it's debut as a second-generation Aviator. The vehicle is based on the Ford Explorer. It has a unique design on the interior and exterior to make it feel like much more than a standard vehicle.

It shares many qualities with its big brother, the up-scale Navigator. It has a powerful V6 engine, cabin noise management so the ride is quiet, and a cushy interior that's comfortable to ride in. There are five trims: Standard, Reserve, Black Label, Grand Touring, and Grand Touring Black Label.

Ten Reasons You May Like the 2020 Lincoln Aviator – The Pros

1. Plenty of Horsepower

The turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 that's under the engine of most of the 2020 Lincoln Aviators is capable of generating 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. It's paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, allowing for smooth transitions and optimal power delivery at various speeds.

The Grand Touring and Grand Touring Black Label editions run on a plug-in hybrid powertrain. Combining a V6 gas engine with an electric motor results in a total output of 494 horsepower and 630 pound-feet of torque.

The traditional engine can achieve up to a combined 21 miles per gallon. Exact numbers haven’t yet been released regarding the hybrid models’ mileage, but it’s certainly expected to do well

2. Good Handling

Rear-wheel drive is standard on all models, with the exception of the Black Label, which only has all-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is an optional upgrade on all the other models if anyone wants enhanced traction in the winter or in otherwise slippery conditions. With rear-wheel drive, the 2020 Lincoln Aviator has good acceleration and handling due to the more optimal weight distribution that this design comes with. In an Aviator, drivers can have fun and feel truly in command behind the wheel.

3. Various Drive Modes

Several drive modes are available, giving people more customization in terms of how the Aviator sets itself up for different conditions. The drive mode can be selected by turning a knob that has been strategically placed in the center front console.

Normal mode offers a nice balance, with a comfort-tuned suspension that would be suitable for most conditions. Conserve mode is exactly what it sounds like, favoring efficiency over aggressive handling. Excite is the mode that priorities performance, and it can provide an exhilarating ride for adrenaline junkies or anyone who wants to spice up his or her commute. Slippery and Deep Conditions modes make a concerted effort to maintain traction.

4. The Lincoln Embrace System is Welcoming

Lincoln Embrace is an advanced system that helps the SUV communicate with its passengers, in a way. When the system detects the key fob or a linked smartphone getting close to the Lexus, the vehicle will light up to greet incoming passengers. A cool touch is that a Lincoln logo welcome mat can be projected on the ground from the side mirror. If the Aviator is equipped with Air Glide Suspension, the vehicle will lower itself to the ground as people enter, only to raise itself back up again when ready to drive.

5. Safety is Important

The safety system that the Aviator comes with is called Co-Pilot360. It consists of driver-assist technology that works to prevent accidents. Forward-collision warning can alert drivers to potential impacts with other cars or pedestrians, and automated emergency braking can take over if a driver doesn't have a chance to react. Additional sensors are constantly monitoring blind spots and whether the Aviator is staying in its lane, and gentle alerts will be sent out when appropriate. Automatic high beams will allow the SUV to switch between high and low beams depending on the situation.

The available Co-Pilot Plus system comes with more features, including adaptive cruise control, a self-parking program that works for both parallel and perpendicular spots, and traffic-sign recognition that can boost driver awareness.

6. Modern Technology

The infotainment system is comprehensive. The 2020 Lincoln Aviator comes with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster to keep track of vehicle performance. It also comes with a 10.1-inch touchscreen that can be clearly seen from the driver's seat and other areas of the cabin. The system is ready to broadcast satellite radio and act as a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot so people can always stay connected, and up to 10 different devices can connect the network at the same time. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility is standard.

7. Cargo Capacity

The 2020 Lincoln Aviator has a dedicated cargo capacity of 18.3 cubic feet. Cargo capacity can expand up to a total of 77.7 cubic feet when both rear rows are lowered. This increases the storage possibilities for anyone who sometimes, or often, has long or bulky items to transport. If people are often heading up to the mountains for ski trips or to the water for kayaking adventures, specialized roof racks can be set up to carry that specific equipment.

8. A Smartphone Can be a Key

Using the Lincoln Way app, a smartphone can be turned into a key that can operate the vehicle. As long as there's a Bluetooth connection between the phone and vehicle, the phone can be used to unlock the SUV and start it up. This means that people no longer have to worry about keeping their key fobs with them wherever they go. Lincoln has covered all the bases in this regard, as a pre-set back-up code is an option to enter and start the vehicle if the phone runs out of batteries.

9. Quality Sound

With the available Revel Ultima 3D Audio System on the 2020 Lincoln Aviator, everyone in the cabin can enjoy a pristine listening experience. The system comes with 28 speakers placed in various locations that work together to provide a 3D effect.

10. Get a Massage

The 2020 Lincoln Aviator can come with a Luxury Package that enhances the feel of the interior. The package comes with 30-way power-adjustable front seats that are almost unparalleled in terms of how much they can be customized. Adjustable side bolsters and thigh support are some ways in which the seats can be maneuvered.

In addition to being heated and ventilated for ultimate comfort, the seats can even give massages to relieve stress and tension. This is a true luxury touch that makes the Aviator rise above some other competitors.

Reasons You May Not Like the 2020 Lincoln Aviator – The Cons

1. Narrow Front Seats

Some may think that the front seats in the Aviator, which have a hip room of 59 inches, feel a bit narrow. This wouldn't bother everyone, but it might be something to check out if anyone likes to spread out in a seat.

2. Lacks Agility

One of the 2020 Lincoln Aviator's strengths is related to one to its weaknesses. While the engine gives the vehicle great acceleration, at times it can feel a little clunky. This could be due to the SUV's size and weight.

3. Not Too Many Bells and Whistles

While the higher trims and the base models equipped with certain packages may have many additional details, the base model is lacking a few things. As a luxury SUV, the 2020 base Lincoln Aviator misses out on having a hands-free lift gate, ambient interior lighting, and wireless charging. For some, this would be a reason to upgrade or look elsewhere.

4. Small Third Row

In the back row of the 2020 Lincoln Aviator, two passengers can be accommodated. However, that third-row leg room is only 29.2 inches. This amount of space would be uncomfortably tight for any larger adult, and some older kids and teens could feel a bit cramped in the back, especially on longer trips as opposed to short rides close to home.

How It Stacks Up to the Competition:

Many people buy SUVs in part because of their cargo capacity, and in this regard, the Aviator beats out some others, such as the Audi Q7. The 2020 Lincoln Aviator also does well when it comes to power. When matched with the XC90, the Aviator comes out ahead in a horsepower showdown. In general, the Lincoln is attractive from a financial perspective, as it doesn't have the sky-high price tags that some other luxury SUVs have.

Conclusion

The 2020 Lincoln Aviator shines in many ways. It's roomy enough to accommodate up to seven passengers, and it can handle itself nicely whether on the open highway, busy city streets, or rough off-road terrain. It has many features that make the interior feel modern and elegant. The technology and safety packages also offer great value.