2020 Lincoln Aviator Review - First Drive

The 2020 Lincoln Aviator is a three-row CUV that cements the brand’s ongoing renaissance. It proves their other recent successes like the Nautilus and the excellent new Navigator, weren’t flukes. The Aviator is Lincoln’s most anticipated vehicle launch in, well, probably decades… and now we finally get to see if it lives up to the hype.
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[@IrfanArio95]

Lincoln is back to the game! Great job Lincoln

[@Jorge-Tamacas]

I like this Lincoln, it would be perfect for my family. That mahogany interior looks awesome

[@zachariafungo5723]

Are right hand drive available

[@gurvaaz1703]

@@zachariafungo5723 lincoln doesnt sell anywhere else except for NA, I think they have some top trim on fords like gmc has denali in other countries

[@zachariafungo5723]

@@gurvaaz1703 its a very beautiful car so sad markets outside NA are not seeing this

[@gurvaaz1703]

@@zachariafungo5723 I agree, my dad wants one for his midlife crisis mobile, bcuz the gt model is quick enough fr him and my mom wouldnt get upset at it, but he can get one ahahahahahaha

[@zachariafungo5723]

@@gurvaaz1703 just play a role of convicing hahaha

[@paulm6481]

Absolute home run. Best luxury SUV on the market today.

[@austinpowell9546]

Well the Lincoln navigator is better

[@insayn7995]

@@austinpowell9546 not really, It’s just bigger.

[@jlang8213]

I would definitely pick up one of these Lincolns if it were in the budget. My wife has an MKC and we love it. This Aviator is on a whole new level!

[@Lucky8s]

The new 2020 Corsair (MKC replacement) looks fantastic inside and out. I think you'd love it.

[@mudcat508]

Wow, beautiful American luxury. Take note Cadillac, this is how you do it.

[@MichaelEKaz]

Continental, Navigator Aviator, and soon the Corsair. Lincoln is on a roll!

[@Lion-dr7uv]

MikeKaz You know an updated MKZ is on its way with a new name too!!

[@Lion-dr7uv]

MikeKaz You know an updated MKZ is on its way with a new name too!! They’re killing it!

[@MichaelEKaz]

@@Lion-dr7uv I did not know that! Looking forward to seeing the replacement.

[@brainards11]

Lincoln has gotten its act together big time!!! Beautiful SUV!!!

[@mikehoard7033]

This is what happens when a parent company pumps money into their lux brand and says do what you want. Pay attention GM.

[@jstragland]

PREACH!

[@mikehamm45]

GM did put a lot of money in Cadillac. They just didn’t allocate enough to interior design, the materials in the ATS/CTS are actually quite okay. They spent so much money on trips to Germany and tracked their cars that they never had enough money left over to give their cars better engines/transmissions. They miscalculated, they were trending against BMW from 2 generations ago when all the car rags allowed those misgivings as along as the car handled well. No one cars about driving dynamics anymore. Ford going RWD here is a game changer. GM should have their SUVs built on their excellent car platforms. Hate all you want, the CTS/ATS and the CT6 have great chassis, they are just missing luxury execution. Which in this market matters. Their instrument panel for example is exhibit one.

[@mybro727]

A Light Yes sales numbers say it all. That’s why the CT6 has outsold the 7-series two years in a row since 2017. You people are just running your mouths don’t even know what you’re talking about.

[@Kaputnik11]

@@mybro727 a ct6 is like 20-30k less so there is that

[@mybro727]

Vintage and Antique Automobiles Wrong. The Genesis G90 is even cheaper than that of the Cadillac CT6. Did genesis also outsell 7-series in 2017 or 2018? Oh they didn’t? Oh ok, I didn’t think so. There goes your assessment right out the window!

[@user-nf8jm5li1k]

I wish Lincoln would make a wagon, because I feel like it would be beautiful.

[@testy462]

Yeah they just don't sell .

[@EricFortuneJr.]

It would definitely work with their current design language. It would be sleek and low cut with an optimal amount of chrome.

[@mr.h3603]

No problem, just lower the SUV you see here. If its not wagonny enough, cut the springs for more low and add side wood panels ;)

[@nathanwhite2293]

This is the closest you're going to get, and that might be alright! This chassis was designed to underpin a sedan, too. The air suspension means it can be lowered for better handling.

[@MrH786]

Check out the Lincoln MKT

[@coltonhoffman]

I ordered one a few months ago, can't wait for it to arrive. Surprisingly the hybrid is 800 lbs heavier than the standard Aviator and weighs as much as my crewcab Raptor! So it has 20% more power and 15% more weight to carry.

[@gjrip]

Torque makes all the difference when it comes to heavy vehicles, and that's where the hybrid shines. It should feel hugely different to drive because of this.

[@yummdiddy]

Lincoln makes the best luxury SUVs on the market, hands down.

[@theshield1613]

Ford did a fantastic job on the Lincoln

[@annestonantonyjoseph]

This is what Toyota needs to do with the Lexus Brand, The Lexus GX could complete with Aviator and the X5 , GLE, Q7 etc...

[@ilipan2668]

Lexus needs a true 3-row crossover, the band-aid RXL does not count

[@dalex7777]

Lexus hates technology. They are stuck in the 1990s

[@dalex7777]

Cuthbert Bracegirdle You assumed I drive Lincoln. I do not.

[@W0nTonSoup]

The GX is more of a off road body on frame suv, they dont have a dedicated 3 row crossovers that would directly compete with this, closest is the RX L

[@BeTheBossOfYourMotorcycle]

I was considering this vehicle for my wife. Specifically the black label. I love the look of it inside and out. However, for her needs, believe it or not, the Hyundai Palisade won. I was not impressed with the infotainment system on this Aviator. It’s very laggy. Also, gaining access to the 3rd row seats isn’t as easy in the Aviator as it is with the Palisade. And once you’re in that 3rd row in the Aviator, it’s no comparison to the 3rd row of the Palisade, which has power reclining seats, cup holders, USB ports and more comfortable seats. Also, from the liftgate, there is no button to lower the 2nd row seats in the Aviator. Every car is going to have features that others will not. What matters is what’s most important to the buyer. If I were shopping for me, I would get the Aviator (Black Label) because it looks awesome, it’s fast, it has air suspension that will lower as I approach the vehicle (so cool), it has a 28 speaker sound system and many other reasons. But I’m buying this vehicle for my wife and none of those things appeal to her. Oh well. She’s getting what she wants and that saves us $40,000. That’s a win, win!👍🏾😊

[@stephenhendricks103]

Yes, it is. Hyundai (and KIA) aim their products at people like your (and my) wife. Lincoln has another market segment in mind.

[@TecDLogic]

I would buy a Lincoln over any other luxury car regardless of how the other car is Why spend over 200k on rolls when you can get this for cheap and enjoy its luxury

[@damariuseaton6678]

ILogic 1 Well here’s the difference, u wouldn’t take my Bentley out on New York New York’s street, i would my lincoln

[@jhajhalife5742]

Rolls doesn’t offer 30 way seats and you won’t get pictures every time you go to Walmart

[@michaelmcmillon5933]

Same I actually own a Lincoln and love it on my second one. Hopefully this is the next one one day lol.

[@Lucky8s]

@@jhajhalife5742 I'm sure you'd get pictures driving this or a Rolls at Walmart lol

[@sho942000]

Because a Rolls isn't an unreliable Ford Escape, Explorer, or Expedition.

[@alexcintas8792]

Thank God Lincoln brought back actual names.

[@itzlamaj]

This car is amazing! It sort of looks like they took the Lincoln LS sedan from 00-03 and made it an SUV as far as looks and shape and I actually like it. Thumbs up Lincoln!

[@donphillips5471]

Beautiful! Lincoln is back

[@BrokenFiddles]

Craig, I am glad you answered a question I had when starting to watch the video. I wondered if the interior is really high quality without having to make excuses for any shortcomings. I was very satysfied with the answer.

[@TheOfficialIronGamin]

Thats one pretty car. Lincoln's really stepping up their game.

[@grantedfire]

This looks great. Happy to see Lincoln doing well.

[@schxn]

Lincoln made a good call not following the Germans. I mean look at Cadillac. They’re kinda still struggling to find an identity while Lincoln’s out here going full blown American luxury offering something no one else does.

[@theshield1613]

Ford did a fantastic job on the Lincoln

[@riseagainstfan10]

I built that car at the Ford plant in Chicago

[@darrincarter8350]

riseagainstfan10... We work hard in making sure these vehicles leave our plant in good working order. Quality is 100% better than it was in April

[@TecDLogic]

Been waiting for this review

[@FraldinhoBJJ]

Jesus frickin Christ . I used to SELL fords and Lincoln’s just a few years ago and I’m surprised /excited by this. I also sold other new car brands. Believe me when I say , as a former car salesmen I KNOW car advertising is over the top and tries to sell you on a vehicle through marketing but not through substance . THIS IS NOT THE CASE this vehicle is the real damn deal. I want one so bad it’s not funny. This was a suggested video on KZbin and I would have went totally over it , but this vehicle is just amazing . The aviator just redefined Lincoln and made them a top vehicle again

[@darrincarter8350]

I’m glad that you guys love the vehicle. I’m a 15yr employee of ford motor company here in Chicago where we build the Ford Explorer & Lincoln aviator. I’m very proud of the vehicles we produce here at CAP. I’m sure that at sometime I’ve had some contact with your vehicle.... In solidarity UAW-FORD

[@Phantim3dx]

sure would purchase another Lincoln. Bought a Lincoln Navigator L 1.5 years ago. A bit too big now that my in laws dont live with us, we still want a 3 row capable suv, this aviator is looking great to be in our garage.

[@rodneyhill595]

Excellent work. Truly a great job on your presentation. I subscribed due to the high quality of review.

[@karlhenry9031]

Welcome back Lincoln Motor Company! Impressive indeed.

[@craigt5990]

I ordered a black label/grand touring/pristine white/flight interior back in May. Just got word 2 days ago that it is finally built and should be at the dealer on Jan 31. Really looking forward to this one.

[@prettyaseyes2268]

Bullshit, I purchased my first Lincoln (LS) in 2005 when I was 35 and I've been sold on their luxury features every since. I now have an Black Label MKC, which I'm giving to my daughter at the end of the year to purchase a Black Label Aviator, glad I waited because I almost purchased the Nautilus.

[@stephenhendricks103]

There won't be many customers like you, Sandra. But that's OK with Lincoln. The Black Label Aviator trim is meant to send a message about the quality Lincoln believes it represents. The objective is to make those who purchase less expensive versions feel that the Black Label's features "rub off" on their vehicles.

[@user-cx2bk6pm2f]

Top notch review; thanks.

[@vinwah10]

I'm glad Lincoln is back basically they are the best SUVs and luxury SUVs out here my car will be paid off this March and I'm definitely purchasing an aviator Grand Touring Black Label 2020

[@mikealanzo]

If I had the use of such a big SUV I definitely would have this one in my garage!!!

[@jakes.7201]

I absolutely LOVE the Lincoln Aviator. Which is really saying something for me since I really don’t like crossovers or SUV’s in general.

[@symmetry08]

This is the shape I was imaging for this size of this car and they got it right. All modern cars, or CUVs, have this third row window shaped against the driver view and rear passenger's view obstruction.

[@lanncopeland8127]

Its is just gorgeous!

[@middler5212]

It is nice. Thanks

[@Q8illusions]

I'm waiting for the Corsair! Can't wait till it's out and see it in person

[@lenwoodcruze3594]

Hey Craig, you were making a weird smacking noise while talking,just pointing that out....now I gotta watch a more recent video to see if it still persists....thumbs up nonetheless!

[@jairocastellanos7790]

I want one.. never though I will like a Lincoln but now I do..

[@yortkrause]

I can't wait to own one!

[@demikoo]

I’m curious to see how these new Lincoln products hold up in the used car market in a few years.

[@Phantim3dx]

like anything it'll depreciate but at a much lower percentage rate. Take for example my 2018 lincoln reserve navigator L, kbb has it valued at a range of 69k-74k, with a typical sale @ 72,712. I bought it new with @ 88kc(have 8k left in payments). First year usually takes a steep depreciation hit, mine, 16k if at the price range of 72k. Still absolutely happy with it. I dont see this dipping under 50k for another 6+ years. At that point I would be ready to trade it in and get something new.

[@alexcintas8792]

Very impressive Lincoln, great proportions. And that front end looks sexy as hell.

[@Domini0n1]

Very good and detail review. This is a solid Lincoln, the Navigator though is nice too but too big for me. This Aviator is a good size.👌🏽👍🏽

[@geraldcarroll4032]

Yes I would buy one!

[@TheJacob2030]

Is this the Base or the fully equipped one?

[@shirazpervez2405]

I have a BMW 640i Gran Coupe but hell yeah in a few years I would to switch to this.... Looks great!

[@facilitatinghappiness]

Yep!

[@adithyaramachandran7427]

I was in an Aviator Reserve loaded to $72K all inclusive today. It is the best SUV out there. The new X5 is garbage compared to this masterpiece, and has too much plastic. My only complaint is that the 3rd row was tight for a 6 foot 200 lb adult like me, but kids should be ok.

[@leonardagius4563]

One thing I would have liked to seen added to this review is that, despite sharing a platform with the 2020 Ford Explorer, it does not share suspension components OR suspension design, with the Explorer. Where 2020 Explorer has a McPherson strut front suspension, 2020 Aviator has long and short A arms, with standard coil springs and optional air springs. Where Explorer has a five link rear setup, Aviator is a six link rear suspension, with standard coil springs and optional air springs. For the last two or three decades, this is unheard of at Ford. Sharing design, with different tuning, has been the norm, This is a welcome departure from Ford's habits.

[@indevibe]

What a CAR!! What a car this is!!

[@MilindSabarad]

Love it

[@davelewis6451]

My favorite is the Destination theme

[@jaytate491]

Ill be buying the grand touring. Its the first lincoln since mg 2006 mark lt that ive wanted.

[@bhekikriel5000]

Awesome car, would sell my heart to get it.

[@blahber222]

craig i’ve been living in detroit for 5 years and i still haven’t been graced with your presence. what’s the deal here?

[@velboone6041]

Lincoln is kicking ass an taking names...🗣️ CADILLAC THIS IS HOW IT'S DONE...

[@brianrupp5974]

Lincoln is the new King of luxury

[@dasasa2]

How do u not show 2nd, 3rd row seats, cargo space in a review?

[@victorgonza4528]

The Riddler from the arkham series reviews cars now good for you Edward, nice Lincoln by the way

[@alexc.7449]

Awesome SUV

[@93remix]

Finally a 3 ROWED SUV THAT IS OVER 275HP and offers an even more POWERFUL option! GOOD JOB FORD MOTOR CO.

[@DonaldTwump]

Lincoln is doing it right.

[@evz1244]

any notes on towing capacities?

[@Papa-o33963]

6.700 lbs of towing capacity.

[@stephenhendricks103]

As noted in another comment the Aviator's tow rating (6700 lbs) exceeds the Explorer's by over half a ton. The only difference is that the trailer package in the Aviator includes a Class IV hitch vs the Explorer's Class III. For those with serious towing requirements the Dodge Durango is still at the top of the midsize class (8700 lbs) but the Aviator, unlike the Explorer with an identical power train, isn't a disappointment for a RWD platform.

[@TalismanPHX]

Cadillac, you've been called out. Better step up your game, General Motors.

[@HosayLeeto]

I still own my 2005 AWD Aviator. This Aviator is gorgeous, powerful and I badly wish I had the money to purchase this one :-(

[@Q8illusions]

Hosay Leeto how's it been in the last 14 years? Any major problems?

[@BlitzStudiosIsinsideyourhome]

Does it have a 3rd row

[@darrincarter8350]

Blitz _Studios... Yes

[@TJW68]

At this price level, Lincoln should offer a bespoke service: custom paint, pic your front grill, wheels, etc.

[@stephenhendricks103]

Adding those features would significantly increase the price of the vehicle. Considering that a relatively well optioned Aviator has an MSRP of $65K or less, it's very well priced vs the competition.

[@bluemoonpanther6337]

Now I want a convertible Lincoln

[@jlwii2000]

For $60-$90K, I would not be parking a lincoln in my garage.

[@fairarthur]

That's because you can't afford it. 🤔😂😜

[@marlonelmorefreedomisoursn9744]

Nathan should start a coach Edition for all their brands which means every vehicle in their lineup would come with suicide doors👍😎

[@bronks29]

I really like the Aviator, and plan on getting it this summer, but I don't like the rear end, does not match with the car

[@aurorajones8481]

OMG yes I would love this thing in my garage. My only gripe is I hate loosing a 3 row bench for some stupid ass console when the third row on this is NOT Navigator in size, I feel your loosing a valuable seat due to that arrangement. Id prefer a nice fold down console on a 3 person bench. Lastly they need to do more on the infotainment system. Its good and better than before and better than others like Lexus or Cadi, but this is a cut throat industry you need to keep on your toes and frankly Audi does it best, id make a run for that with a classy American touch.

[@marguritelee130]

Can my scooter fit in the back of this vehicle?

[@kingedoftheworld]

more hp and torque than an x5? dang.

[@chikidd24]

This truck is everything he said and more and i should know i help build these everyday at ford motor company!💯💪🏾

[@mr.h3603]

chikidd24 do you get staff discounts? In Australia, when they used to build Ford sedans, you could lease a brand new car next to nothing and most times sell it after a year and basically get your money back.

[@chikidd24]

@@mr.h3603 yes i do ☺

[@charliewilson3528]

Yes if I was spending that kind of money on transportation.

[@stephenhendricks103]

The Aviator is certainly not your grandfather's vehicle. Very impressive. And considering that it's difficult to configure an Explorer for an MSRP under $50,000 with a 2.3L four cylinder engine the Aviator is even more tempting. Add $10K to 12K to the price of an upper trim Explorer and you have a much more appealing Aviator. It won't matter to those who aren't interested in serious towing but the Aviator has one major advantage over the Explorer worth noting. The shift of the Explorer's platform to RWD should have provided a significant advantage in terms of towing. It didn't. Rated at only 5300-5600 lbs the Explorer is only a measly 300 to 600 lbs more than several competitors on FWD-based platforms. The Aviator, on the other hand is rated at 6700 lbs. The only difference? The Aviator has a Class IV hitch while the Explorer has a Class III. I suspect that an after-market Class IV hitch could be added to the Explorer but that only diminishes the price difference between the vehicles. Bottom line? The Aviator seems to be competitively priced compared to other midsize luxury SUV's. The Explorer, on the other hand, is significantly overpriced compared to its rivals in the mainstream SUV marketplace. If one is willing to pay close to $60,000 for an Explorer, the Aviator deserves a serious look.

[@bobbyzipp9947]

Love it. But not for $90k

[@twistedinnocence8617]

Agree. I believe you can get a fully equipped Navigator for just a few thousand more. 85k is probably a more reasonable price.

[@craigt5990]

Already ordered a black label grand touring. Yep, $92k. ETA .... November/December

[@YOLOnyc]

*At **9:06** you asked* if I'd consider parking a Lincoln in my garage, well, yes, I already have an Aviator (watch the review of it on my channel)

[@Cliff00936]

Why can't the engine recharge battery to 100% why only 75% that's weird

[@shredman59]

Have an enclave and was considering getting something more upscale (Q7, GLS, X7) but the Aviator has me seriously thinking about lincoln for the first time ever. Not sure I can get over their old image. The Matthew Mc commercials are also a big detractor for me....not sure who finds those appealing or even neutral.

[@stephenhendricks103]

My wife for one. :)

[@nimab8935]

Those unintuitive gear buttons are the biggest flaw of this car. You have to lift your elbow every time you want to go from N to D or vice versa

[@JaredW-te6ho]

Lincoln should work on a mkt with this design style and rename it the transcontinental as a road trip car

[@jjg4951]

True American luxury

[@christopheradams5607]

Now only if they bring back the town car

[@darrincarter8350]

Christopher Adams...You never know. A lot of name plates are coming back.

[@Suprasian]

ok review due to not touching on the backseat or luggage area. most families are going to be interested in seeing that view and it's features.

[@indram7907]

Thank god it’s Craig I stop watching when I see Daffy Duck

[@kkp4297]

Only reason I wouldn't buy this is that all the livery services will be buying this. I don't want to be seen as an airport limo shuttle

[@stephenhendricks103]

Skip the uniform. You'll be OK. :)

[@alfonsom8286]

92k for a fully loaded Lincoln!! Wth? Who the hell can afford that?

[@stephenhendricks103]

Enough folks to make it profitable for Lincoln to produce it.

[@lindelanibramley3446]

Looks good .has some Range Rover in it for some looks, like Velar

[@prettyaseyes2268]

It's missing front and rear window dash cams!! LOL

[@o-townminideals3104]

$52K-$65K is within the realm of reality🙂 but $90K you're out of your mind🤪

[@stephenhendricks103]

MSRP's are often set to deliver a message, not necessarily to accurately reflect the price a manufacturer expects a vehicle to sell for. In this case, the message is that the top trim Aviator should be seen as comparable to other top trim luxury SUV's in terms of features and prestige, not as a step down. I suspect Lincoln knows that few buyers will opt for the top trim Aviator vs European luxury SUV's at near the same price but like the one house on the street that exceeds the price of other houses by 40% or more, it raises the image projected by the entire neighborhood.

[@bluedrummajor2876]

I miss Craig.

[@vladimirgontcharenko2825]

Thank you. I liked your review. I would concider it of course.

[@oldschool1928]

Definitely not a rental. A lease for sure. :)

[@Jabid21]

The XT6 is laughably terrible compared to this. Seriously, the XT6 is built on a FWD chevy/gmc vehicle. Ford instead built a new RWD platform and adapted Explorer into it. I'll look to get one of these in the next three years once all the lease returns start coming in.

[@mybro727]

Jabid21 The Cadillac XT6 doesn’t even compete in the same market as the Lincoln Aviator. You don’t even know what you’re talking about. Ford didn’t build a new RWD platform for the Explorer or Aviator, the Explorer’s CD6 platform may be new to Lincoln but isn’t new to Ford at all. That FWD based platform the XT6 is on manages to have a more nimble feel and better driving dynamics than the RWD Aviator when equipped with GM’s intelligent twin-clutch AWD system. Did you know that? You’ve clearly never even sniffed the interior of a Cadillac XT6 Sport let alone driven one. Shut up.

[@Jabid21]

@@mybro727 have you driven the Aviator? You haven't either. So shut up. Stop being a GM shill. It is more than abundantly clear which of the two vehicle is superior. I agree XT6 and Aviator doesn't compete in the same market cause Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade are closer as competitors to Aviator than the Caddy. My original rant was more about XT6 not being deserving of the Cadillac badge being such a mediocre vehicle. That interior is super dated already. Now go sniff the interior of your still in showroom Cadillac cause that what actual drivers do.

[@mybro727]

Jabid21 You need to worry about why the Aviator was such a rushed job that its already been recalled. How about that for deserving of the Lincoln name? Lol. You idiot.

[@Jabid21]

@@mybro727 ok ok you win. Recalls happen for fixing issues of course. Happens with all cars now if that causes cars to not be deserving of a luxury name, have at it. Oh just make sure your car's key don't fly off the ignition while you test drive 😂. Ok I kid. Have fun driving your and respects. Signing off

[@joespag26]

Why do they compare Lincoln with Ford ?? Do the ever compare Lexus with Toyota or Acura with Honda ??

[@alexcintas8792]

Because up until now the differentiation between Ford and Lincoln was a joke... Lexus has been a runaway success since inception, Lincoln was almost dead a few short years ago.

[@YoungHaveNot]

Man I wish I could afford any of these cars that are reviewed.. And these tablets attached to the dash I guess is the new trend. I hate it, I can have my display into the dash please?

[@testy462]

I wouldn't sweat on it man...most of the people that "can afford" these and do should not be buying one. I guess what I'm saying is most people that buy them really can't afford it and are up to their eyeballs in debt.