The Lincoln Aviator represents the latest evolution in American luxury performance SUVs, embodying the Lincoln commitment to balancing refined power with sophisticated handling. This mid-size three-row luxury SUV enters the new model year with significant performance enhancements that elevate it beyond its predecessor. From its powertrain options to its adaptive suspension system, the Aviator delivers a driving experience that seamlessly marries comfort with capability across a wide range of driving conditions.

Powertrain Options and Specifications

Standard Powertrain: Twin-Turbocharged Excellence

The Aviator continues with a proven 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, though with notable refinements for the new model year. This powerplant delivers impressive performance metrics:

• Engine Displacement: 3.0 liters (2,956 cc)
• Configuration: V6 with twin turbochargers
• Power Output: 298 kW (400 horsepower) at 5,500 rpm
• Torque: 563 Nm (415 lb-ft) at 3,000 rpm
• Compression Ratio: 9.5:1
• Redline: 6,500 rpm
• Transmission: 10-speed SelectShift automatic

Lincoln engineers have refined the turbocharger response curve, resulting in improved low-end torque delivery. The recalibrated engine control unit offers improved throttle response and smoother power delivery throughout the entire rev range. These enhancements contribute to a more responsive driving experience, particularly in everyday urban driving scenarios.

Grand Touring Hybrid Powertrain: Electrified Performance

The Aviator Grand Touring continues as the performance flagship, combining the twin-turbocharged V6 with an advanced electric motor system:

• Combined Power Output: 370 kW (494 horsepower)
• Combined Torque: 854 Nm (630 lb-ft)
• Electric Motor: 75 kW (100 horsepower)
• Battery Capacity: 13.6 kWh lithium-ion
• Electric-Only Range: Up to 32 kilometers
• Transmission: Modular hybrid 10-speed automatic

The new model year introduces enhanced integration between the combustion engine and electric components, resulting in smoother transitions between power sources. Engineers have also refined the regenerative braking system to provide better pedal feel while maximizing energy recuperation.

Acceleration and Dynamic Performance

The Aviator delivers impressive acceleration figures that position it competitively in the luxury SUV segment:

Standard Aviator Performance Metrics:

• 0-100 km/h Acceleration: 5.7 seconds
• 80-120 km/h Passing Acceleration: 3.8 seconds
• Top Speed: 230 km/h (electronically limited)
• Quarter-Mile Time: 14.2 seconds at 156 km/h

Grand Touring Hybrid Performance Metrics:

• 0-100 km/h Acceleration: 5.1 seconds
• 80-120 km/h Passing Acceleration: 3.2 seconds
• Top Speed: 220 km/h (electronically limited)
• Quarter-Mile Time: 13.6 seconds at 159 km/h

These figures represent improvements of approximately 0.2-0.3 seconds over the previous model year, attributable to both powertrain refinements and the implementation of an enhanced launch control system on higher trim levels.

The impressive acceleration of the Grand Touring benefits from the electric motor’s instant torque delivery, which fills the gap while the turbochargers build boost. This creates a virtually lag-free power delivery that feels more responsive than the raw numbers suggest.

Suspension and Chassis Technology

The Aviator employs sophisticated suspension technology that significantly contributes to its performance profile while maintaining the Lincoln reputation for ride comfort.

Air Glide Suspension

Available on higher trim levels, the Air Glide adaptive suspension system now features faster-acting air compressors and enhanced sensors:

• Adjustable Ride Height Range: 80 mm total range
• Lowered Highway Position: -20 mm (activated above 110 km/h)
• Raised Off-Road Position: +25 mm for additional ground clearance
• Entry/Exit Position: -35 mm for easier ingress/egress
• Response Time: Reduced by 23% compared to previous models

The system automatically adjusts the ride height based on driving conditions and the selected drive mode. The lowered highway position enhances aerodynamics and stability at speed, while the raised position offers a generous 216 mm of ground clearance when needed for light off-road excursions.

Adaptive Suspension with Road Preview

The Aviator introduces the most advanced Lincoln suspension technology to date:

• Forward-Facing Camera: Scans the road surface 15 meters ahead
• Adjustable Dampers: 12-stage electronic continuous control
• Response Time: 7 milliseconds from detection to adjustment
• Pothole Detection: Prepares suspension to minimize impact
• Cross-Wind Stability Control: Automatically compensates for side forces

This system literally “reads” the road ahead, preparing the suspension for upcoming surface changes before the vehicle reaches them. When the camera detects a pothole, for example, the system can stiffen the appropriate damper to prevent the wheel from dropping as deeply into the depression, reducing impact harshness.

The latest model features an enhanced algorithm that can now distinguish between various types of surface imperfections, further refining the response to specific road conditions.

Handling and Driving Dynamics

The substantial size of the Aviator (measuring 4,998 mm in length with a 3,025 mm wheelbase) is effectively managed through several key technologies that enhance handling performance:

Dynamic Torque Vectoring

Available with the Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system, the torque vectoring capability can distribute up to 100% of available rear axle torque to either rear wheel:

• Cornering Improvement: Reduces understeer by up to 17%
• Slalom Performance: 7% improvement in directional changes
• Stability Enhancement: Automatic correction in slippery conditions
• Response Time: 80 milliseconds from detection to torque redistribution

The system intervenes more subtly, providing enhanced cornering ability without feeling artificial or intrusive. The result is a more natural steering feel that belies the vehicle’s 2,223 kg mass.

Adaptive Steering

The adaptive steering system in the Aviator varies the steering ratio based on vehicle speed and selected drive mode:

• Parking Ratio: 9:1 for easier low-speed maneuvering
• Highway Ratio: 14.5:1 for improved stability
• Steering Wheel Rotation: Reduced by up to 30% during parking maneuvers
• Turning Circle: 12.2 meters curb-to-curb

The system offers light, quick steering at low speeds, facilitating easier maneuverability in tight spaces, while gradually transitioning to a more stable ratio as speed increases. Lincoln has refined the algorithm’s transition points, resulting in a more progressive and natural-feeling transition between ratios.

Braking Performance

The Aviator features an upgraded braking system that delivers impressive stopping performance:

• Front Rotors: 350 mm ventilated discs
• Rear Rotors: 345 mm ventilated discs
• Brake Callipers: Four-piston fixed front, single-piston floating rear
• 100-0 km/h Stopping Distance: 35.1 meters
• Fade Resistance: Less than 5% performance degradation after 10 consecutive maximum stops

The Grand Touring model features a regenerative braking system that can capture up to 94 kW of power during deceleration, returning energy to the battery while reducing brake wear. The integration between friction and regenerative braking provides a more consistent pedal feel regardless of battery charge state.

Drive Modes and Performance Customization

The Lincoln Drive Modes system allows drivers to tailor the Aviator performance characteristics to their preferences and driving conditions:

Standard Drive Modes:

• Normal: Balanced performance settings for everyday driving
• Conserve: Optimized for efficiency with reduced throttle response
• Excite: Enhanced throttle response, firmer suspension, and more aggressive transmission mapping
• Slippery: Reduced power delivery and enhanced stability control for low-traction conditions
• Deep Conditions: Optimized for snow, mud, or sand with specific traction control parameters

Grand Touring Exclusive Modes:

• Pure EV: Operates solely on electric power when charge is available
• Preserve EV: Maintains battery charge for later use in electric-only zones
• Normal: Intelligently blends gas and electric power for optimal efficiency
• Excite+: Maximizes combined power output for peak performance

Lincoln has added a customizable “Personal” mode that allows drivers to mix and match specific parameters from different drive modes, creating a tailored driving experience that reflects individual preferences.

Towing and Utility Performance

Despite its luxury positioning, the Aviator delivers impressive utility performance:

• Maximum Towing Capacity: 2,540 kg (with Class III Trailer Tow Package)
• Standard Towing Capacity: 1,814 kg
• Payload Capacity: 761 kg
• Trailer Sway Control: Standard with electronic stability enhancement
• Optional Trailer Backup Assist: Semi-autonomous trailer steering control

Lincoln has enhanced the integrated trailer braking controller with improved modulation for smoother operation. The system now provides more gradual brake application to reduce jerking when towing heavier loads.

Fuel Efficiency and Range

Balancing performance with efficiency, the Aviator achieves respectable fuel economy:

Standard Powertrain Efficiency:

• City Driving: 13.1 L/100 km
• Highway Driving: 9.6 L/100 km
• Combined Rating: 11.5 L/100 km
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 76 liters
• Estimated Range: 661 kilometers

Grand Touring Hybrid Efficiency:

• Electric-Only Efficiency: 3.2 Le/100 km
• Hybrid Mode City: 10.3 L/100 km
• Hybrid Mode Highway: 9.0 L/100 km
• Combined Efficiency: 4.2 Le/100 km (with regular charging)
• Total Combined Range: Up to 756 kilometers

The new model benefits from improved aerodynamics, with the coefficient of drag reduced from 0.35 to 0.34 through subtle reshaping of the front fascia and underbody shields.

Performance Technology Integration

Several technological systems enhance the Aviator performance capabilities without intruding on the luxury experience:

Active Noise Control

• Microphone Array: 20 strategically placed microphones throughout the cabin
• Noise Cancellation Coverage: 20-500 Hz frequency range
• Engine Sound Enhancement: Optional in Excite mode
• Wind Noise Reduction: Up to 3 dB at highway speeds
• Road Noise Cancellation: Dynamic adjustment based on surface type

The model introduces an enhanced algorithm that can now distinguish between desirable and undesirable sounds, preserving engine notes that contribute to the performance character while cancelling wind and road noise.

Performance Telemetry

A new feature in the digital instrument cluster offers performance-oriented information:

• G-Force Indicator: Real-time lateral and longitudinal forces
• Acceleration Timer: Custom distance and speed interval measurements
• Efficiency Coach: Real-time guidance for maximizing fuel economy or electric range
• Power Distribution Display: Visual representation of power flow (Grand Touring)

Comparative Performance Analysis

When analyzed against key competitors in the luxury midsize SUV segment, the Aviator demonstrates several performance strengths:

• Acceleration: Class-competitive with the standard powertrain; among the quickest with the Grand Touring hybrid
• Fuel Efficiency: Mid-pack with standard powertrain; class-leading with Grand Touring (among non-PHEV competitors)
• Towing Capacity: Above average for the luxury midsize segment
• Ride Quality: Class-leading with the adaptive suspension and road preview technology
• Handling: Improved dynamics that place it in the upper tier, though still oriented more toward comfort than sportiness

The Grand Touring model provides a rare combination of class-leading torque (854 Nm) and impressive efficiency, positioning it uniquely in the segment as a performance-oriented option that doesn’t compromise on fuel economy.

2025 Lincoln Aviator: Refined Power with Purposeful Technology

The Lincoln Aviator delivers a comprehensive performance package that successfully balances power, efficiency, and handling. While maintaining the traditional Lincoln emphasis on comfort and refinement, the latest Aviator incorporates advanced engineering and technology that elevate its performance credentials.

The standard twin-turbocharged V6 provides ample power for confident everyday driving, while the Grand Touring’s electrified powertrain delivers impressive acceleration with improved efficiency. The sophisticated suspension systems, particularly the adaptive suspension with road preview, create a driving experience that effectively isolates passengers from road imperfections without sacrificing handling capability.

What sets the Aviator apart is how seamlessly its performance technologies operate. Rather than showcasing their technical prowess, these systems work quietly in the background, enhancing the driving experience without calling attention to themselves—a philosophy that aligns perfectly with an approach to understated luxury.

For drivers seeking a three-row luxury SUV that delivers confident performance across varied driving scenarios, the Aviator offers a compelling blend of power, technology, and refinement that maintains its distinctly American luxury character while meeting or exceeding global performance standards.