2023 Lincoln Aviator Reserve Review

[@raynavarra]

Just bought a 2023 today. I’m impressed with the quality and detail. 400hp is what really sold me as well. It’s impressive hp in this class suv. The interior is much nicer than the Chevy or dodge compatible suv. Like anything in life people will defend brand loyalty. I did look at the suvs in this segment and price range which is why I chose the Aviator. Hopefully it will be a good choice. But since I have owned well over 100 cars in my life, I am very aware that there is good and bad builds in all auto makers.

[@CarsWithSteve]

Wow.. 100 in. hoping that this one keeps you happy while you've got it. Which trim level/color scheme did you end up going with?

[@randalllawkin]

wow 100?

[@HolyRoboticCop]

The original '03 Aviator was my first vehicle... It was an incredible culmination of past (reliable, sound, free of frequent malfunction(s) due to overengineering, etc) and was a very impressive demonstration of technologies that most (and still today, 20 years later, is seldom seen in most makes/models) car makers would ever be so innovative and 'future friendly' of the proofing with such pleasant optional surprises for that time ESPECIALLY as High Intensity Discharge headlamps, Heated/Cooled seats, LED lighting/hidden cluster instruments etc. Standard parking assistance sensors, aluminum suspension components and low center of gravity without airbags but just as dampened ride.. The American Burl wood inlays .. Everything that makes this the one of a handful of domestics then and especially now is that international compelling and defining of the quality of its country of origin in little known existence.

[@jamesdaple9951]

Congrats

[@Konigkev]

I’m a few days from picking up my 23’ pristine white aviator reserve, fully loaded. How are you liking yours so far?

[@jakebe4915]

The style of the Aviator is stunningly proportionate. Beautiful lines indeed.

[@CarsWithSteve]

It is! Can't wait to see what they do with the refresh

[@nancyross3118]

I own a MKc reserve and love it. Watching video while hubby drives and most everything you showed I have and LOVE it! Hoping to step up the Aviator next. Your video was great! Thx

[@CarsWithSteve]

Always love hearing when people are enjoying their rides! The move to the Aviator is going to be exciting. Think you'll wait for the 2025 re-design or look at a current gen model?

[@ELP1125]

Lincoln is like the only luxury brand that combines old school luxury with new school luxury so seamlessly

[@CarsWithSteve]

Agree with you there. I'm curious what the next generation model is going to look like for the Aviator

[@DavidToppMelanieScot]

Well done!!!!!! Certainly the best car review video I've seen - possibly ever. Two thumbs up.

[@CarsWithSteve]

Thanks so much Melanie!

[@_zoid]

Great review! Very easy to watch. Audio quality is excellent and I enjoyed the wide angle shot for the test drive. If you’re ever looking for a niche in the space, consider nighttime reviews and/or POV drives. It seems like an underserved area in my experience.

[@CarsWithSteve]

Thanks Zoid, appreciate that! Great idea on the night time test drive. I’ll add that to the list and see what gear could make it happen

[@EdwardGomez-u8e]

Thanks for responding , yes by having button area from your reach it will become inconvenience of every time you park u will need to reach to button of the reverse and drive , what would happen if the buttons ware out , or if also want to perform An U-turn or half u-turn u will have to reach out instead of looking out for any on coming traffic . It’s more safe to have our hand on the gear shift while performing these tasks with out compromising our vision and go by our feeling of changing the gears at same times . Maybe it me , Sorry it’s really nice SUV

[@CarsWithSteve]

The buttons burning out argument could be used for any type of shifter though.. if it's a rotary or traditional hand shifter it could get stuck. You do end up getting used to the piano keys though, plus it's nice when you go to turn off the vehicle it'll automatically drop you in park regardless of the gear that you're in

[@barblangford-witherell]

You always do an awesome job at explaining the use of things in the aviator

[@CarsWithSteve]

Thanks so much Barb, appreciate that!

[@greg6295]

My favorite adjective is fantastic too. Very thorough review.

[@CarsWithSteve]

Haha thanks! I find I tend to use some kind of filler words in my videos. Tough habit to break

[@jackmac66]

New subscriber, excellent presentation. Not rushed and easy to follow

[@CarsWithSteve]

Thanks Jack, appreciate the support!

[@EdwardGomez-u8e]

Thanks for responding , yes by having button area from your reach it will become inconvenience of every time you park u will need to reach to button of the reverse and drive , what would happen if the buttons ware out , or if also want to perform An U-turn or half u-turn u will have to reach out instead of looking out for any on coming traffic . It’s more safe to have our hand on the gear shift while performing these tasks with out compromising our vision and go by our feeling of changing the gears at same times . Maybe it me , Sorry it’s really nice SUV , Add on- also those with short arms that has disability, Elderly Driver that might have back problem but still can drive .

[@CarsWithSteve]

The shifter keys being a bit further away is a good point for folks with a disability.. The 2024 Lincoln Nautilus has piano keys as well but they're closer to the driver compared to the Aviator

[@MrsHandyRU]

Your video helped me so much! I am likely buying an Aviator soon. Possibly the Black Label Grand Touring.

[@CarsWithSteve]

Glad it helped, the Black Label is beautiful inside! What interior color choice do you think you'd go for?

[@66skate]

The nice thing about the Ebony/Roast interior is the dark headliner. I don't really like a light colored headliner.

[@CarsWithSteve]

So true! I'm a big fan of the darker headliners compared to the light ones too

[@harpreetthind]

Love, Lincoln vehicles love the Ford sync system

[@CarsWithSteve]

Nice! What's your favorite car/SUV they offer?

[@randalllawkin]

loving the all black

[@CarsWithSteve]

Right? The monochromatic package looks great in Lincoln vehicles

[@ayoubyakoob7146]

Great review Steve. I currently own a Telluride night edition,2022 model. Fantastic car, looks great, so functional and everything works well. I am looking though, for what's out there worth considering as the next step up. Luxury, power, good looking (sporty), min 7 seater. Aviator does seem to tick the boxes. Though I find the limitation on not being able to slide back the middle bench a snag. My Telly allows for this option and it's amazing the amount of space created when dropping that 3rd row. Also thinking of EV or hybrid if viable. What's the aviator grand touring hybrid like? How many miles can it drive in pure electric? When in hybrid mode what's the max speed to remain in electric both on highways and in-city driving? Any other cars you recommend? I'm waiting on Lucid Gravity too.

[@CarsWithSteve]

Thanks Ayoub! The Aviator would definitely be a nice upgrade in comparison, the power difference between the two is really noticeable so you may appreciate that in the Lincoln. If you don't need 7 seats there's the option for the dual captain's chairs in the Aviator which would give you 6 seats and a pass through to the 3rd row. The Aviator hybrid has a 21 mile electric range and is also partially charged through regenerative braking while driving. The flip between electric and gas will depend on what you're doing.. like going uphill the engine may fire up vs flat driving, coasting on highways etc will most likely keep you in electric.

[@MrsHandyRU]

Years ago, had a Prius (ugh); does the Aviator charge in the same way? (I know it can also plug in) Considering the Black Label Grand Touring. What beautiful cars!

[@flex_007]

I loooove the aviator

[@CarsWithSteve]

Hopefully the next gen model takes things up a notch

[@Sloba1992]

I like design of this suv, there is so many very nice midsize and large SUVs, Land Rover, Germany, Lexus, Acura, Tahoe RST…. would be very hard to pick one for long term vehicle

[@CarsWithSteve]

It gets to be a bit of a challenge for sure. What are you currently driving and what do you like about it?

[@harpreetthind]

So very similar to BC AAA, the roadside assistance feature for these kind of vehicles

[@CarsWithSteve]

It is very similar - pretty nice that it lasts for the lifetime of the original buyer!

[@DavidToppMelanieScot]

Steve - Does the Aviator have the acoustic glass coating on the windows to repel outside noise?

[@CarsWithSteve]

It does, along with active noise cancellation. It's a surprisingly quiet ride!

[@flandrescarlet486]

The screen is small. Gonna wait until they put on the newer system. In China, I believe they already have the sync 4 on the aviator.

[@CarsWithSteve]

There should be a refresh coming soon - hopefully for the 2024 model but most likely 2025. That will bring in the larger Sync4 screen!

[@jamesdaple9951]

Lincoln used to put adjustable pedals I loved it with my short legs and big belly

[@CarsWithSteve]

The adjustable pedals are great! Which Lincoln did you used to own?

[@whatsupwithsteve]

We've had our '21 for over 2 years now and generally love it. Sadly though at only 10k miles we had to have the entire transmission replaced. Under warranty of course but not confidence inspiring. Also the seat bottoms get rock hard after an hour or so. Didn't notice that in the Navigator, perhaps it's because of the seat width? Oh and don't forget to mention that faux "massage" is simply a few air bags that inflate and deflate to simulate some sort of massage but only on the seat bottom and lower back. To say it is uninspiring would be a complement. Aside from that though a very nice car, quiet, great performance and handling and an incredible sound system!

[@CarsWithSteve]

Always good to hear owner feedback! Interesting that the seats end up being slightly uncomfortable after longer trips. Going to have to snag one of these for a distance drive! Are you running the massage seats?

[@whatsupwithsteve]

@@CarsWithSteve HI Steve yes we opted for the Black Label/lease in part because of all the issues with the 2020 models. After the transmission failure it appears I may have made a wise choice..:) And I can't tell you how disappointed I was with those 30way "massaging" seats. The other luxury cars have actual rolling massage that goes all the way up your back which makes sense. All the airbag massage does is make you want to stop for a bathroom break!!! Loving your videos, keep 'em coming!!

[@CarsWithSteve]

I have to get down to the states to see a Black Label Lincoln! Sucks that the seats aren't as good as you'd hoped but glad you're enjoying it otherwise!

[@whatsupwithsteve]

@@CarsWithSteve It is quiet, powerful and has a great stereo. But since my last post both the left and right side window trim pieces fell off. Call me not impressed!!!

[@CarsWithSteve]

Wow.. well that's a bit disappointing. I think that's the first time I've had someone mention that. Hopefully the dealer is taking care of you

[@robintexas91]

Another great overview. What's your take on the push-button transmission control located on the instrument panel? It seemed a little much and possibly even annoying in my view, which is way I stayed with the Ford over the Lincoln line. Also, tell your viewers not to exclude that kick to open feature on the tailgate. I thought it was gimmicky until I actually had it. A real plus when your hands are full or you're trying to wrestle 2 Great Danes into the vehicle. :)

[@CarsWithSteve]

Thanks Rob! The location isn't too odd for the push start.. the only other spot I could see it making sense would be just to the left of the piano keys by shifting them over to the right. Good point on expanding the benefits of the foot activated liftgate! It is nice to have in those situations.. I think they could take it up a notch though. I was in a vehicle recently and the liftgate on that one will automatically open if it recognizes the fob after a few seconds and can close automatically if you walk away!

[@robintexas91]

@@CarsWithSteve Interesting. How does it "know" if you want the tailgate to open or not?

[@CarsWithSteve]

You need to be standing behind the liftgate for 3-5 seconds and then it will beep before opening. If you walk away or to the side it cancels the lift

[@RandyPena-k9d]

Нереально крутой занос получился))) Спасибо тебе за эти офигенные победы)

[@CarsWithSteve]

Пожалуйста

[@harpreetthind]

Is that the biggest screen you can get in the vehicle?

[@CarsWithSteve]

In the Aviator it is.. the Navigator has a slightly larger screen available. Hopefully with the Explorer/Aviator refresh it brings the larger screen option

[@GerardaGreggory]

Вот это конечно ты могешь) Красавчик, тащи дальше)

[@CarsWithSteve]

Спасибо

[@EdwardGomez-u8e]

It will be nice if they eliminate the piano buttons to change gears , have install at it’s usable space

[@CarsWithSteve]

What's wrong with the piano key shifters?

[@vanceforrest4085]

I had two dealers give me pricing and then the third’s first question to me was did you know about the stop sale recall…um NO! Researched it and sure as shit there it is. Recall for 422,000 vehicles with issues up to the August 17, 2023 production date. So two dealers didn’t say word and I’m sure would have sold it, but one with a conscious told me they 17 sold sitting on their lot since April and can’t let the customers get it. They’re pissed! No solution in site, no fix, no TSB….limbo! Bought a 2024 Acura MDX Advanced yesterday.

[@CarsWithSteve]

The recall has to do with a hardware issue on the 360 cameras and it's looking like a fix should happen sometime this month. Dealers can technically still sell the vehicles they just can't be delivered until the fix is done.. I'm really hoping those other dealers would have filled you in before you signed on the dotted line Haven't started reviewing Acura yet but how are you liking it so far?

[@vanceforrest4085]

@@CarsWithSteve I like it and it will be fine but I did settle vs what I wanted. The Aviator was my first choice by far so I have to be happy with the MDX and the extra $7k I saved. The MDX is rock solid going into retirement knowing that, but I not the fun the Aviator is. Looking forward to your MDX review.

[@CarsWithSteve]

Yeah that makes sense, settling is never a good feeling. Hoping to get into Acura in the next month or so

[@JesusChrist-n3t]

Evil spirits be gone

[@Keydet1992]

Does it have CarPlay?

[@CarsWithSteve]

Yes! It's wired Android Auto and Apple CarPlay in this infotainment system. Here's a review on that system: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aV68gmd7hciIaLs

[@Keydet1992]

@@CarsWithSteve Thank you!

[@CarsWithSteve]

you're welcome

[@thekinarbo]

Fisheye camera lense?

[@CarsWithSteve]

Nope.. this one was a 14-42 kit lens for a Panasonic G7 that I was using at the time edit: on the test drive I used an Insta360 OneX2 though

[@RafaelKaufman]

Подрезал у тебя эту тактику) работает реально классно! Всем советую!

[@CarsWithSteve]

Спасибо

[@jamesdaple9951]

Nice

[@CarsWithSteve]

Thanks!

[@ramonacevedo356]

2017 mkz

[@CarsWithSteve]

Thinking of upgrading from an MKZ to the Aviator?

[@sumannewyork5476]

Hello sir. Can you tell me the best price for black aviator please

[@CarsWithSteve]

Going to depend on which trim level you're looking at and what features are important to you. If you're defining the best price as the cheapest option you could look at the Standard trim level which starts around $55,000 USD

[@TereseMittelsteadt]

какие завозы у тебя заходят)) просто жесть полная)

[@CarsWithSteve]

поставки?

[@harpreetthind]

The Lincoln aviator is their SUV, right

[@CarsWithSteve]

It's whose SUV?

[@AnnabelleCooper-y1c]

Сколько тебе выпало??? Чисто жесть))) да это зарплато моего бати)))

[@marcusdavenport1590]

When talking about the Lexus does he remind people to buy the Toyota? Lol I'm still salty he mentioned Ford

[@CarsWithSteve]

The two of them target different markets and are made by the same company. A person could be sold on the idea of Lincoln and not be able to afford the premium luxuries so they want an equivalent. It's called comparison

[@marcusdavenport1590]

@@CarsWithSteve I know they are made by the same company. But unfortunately many people call Lincolns glorified ford's... But they don't do the same to other brands although Lincolns are beget in my opinion. So it's possible that you do the same with Lexus videos... But I'd need to see proof of that lol I can't share this video with anyone although I plan to buy the car because you cheapened it whereas I'm about to spend $90,000

[@CarsWithSteve]

Lexus = Toyota Genesis = Hyundai Acura = Honda Some auto manufacturers have an offshoot luxury brand to appeal to a different market segment. Other reviewers may not say it but just because it's not said doesn't mean it isn't true lol

[@daddytom1014]

I totally get it. I wanted the Explorer ST. Then found out Ford does not offer HUD so I purchased the Aviator. Day three of ownership took a 400 mile trip. Great comfort and power to pass.@@CarsWithSteve

[@dylankelly3596]

Center screen is dated

[@CarsWithSteve]

Definitely needs an update. Hopefully that's coming in the 2024 model but should be 2025 at the latest

[@GOPisEvil]

It’s too bad that the quality is so poor for this car. I would buy one if I thought the transmission would last and water wouldn’t leak into the cabin.

[@CarsWithSteve]

Not a common issue but sucks when it happens. Has the transmission in yours been giving you trouble?

[@Deathbruce]

In all honesty, you are falling for the trolls who want to hate on Ford/Lincoln. I have owned many and have had no real issues.

[@marcusdavenport1590]

Watching a Lincoln video and they remind you of you're looking for a Ford.... Turn off

[@CarsWithSteve]

What a reason to tune out.. bye 👋