2020 Lincoln Aviator Highlights

The Lincoln Aviator name may be familiar to Blue Oval fans, but the 2020 edition is nothing like its predecessor from the early 2000s. This family-friendly SUV starts with Ford Explorer DNA and dials the luxury factor. As in the past, the Aviator offers three rows for people who don’t want the bulk of the Navigator.

Key Details

• Midsize SUV body style
• Three-row seating for up to seven passengers
• Based on the Ford Explorer platform
• Standard twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine
• Available plug-in hybrid powertrain (2020 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring)
• Standard rear-wheel drive (RWD) with available all-wheel drive (AWD)

Benefits

• Powerful standard engine with an optional hybrid
• Spacious and luxuriously appointed interior
• Impressive towing capacity for its class
• Available Air Glide Suspension
• Distinctive styling sets it apart from its Ford Explorer cousin
• Advanced driver assistance features are standard across all trims

Related: How Long Do Lincoln Aviators Last? The Scoop on Vehicle Lifespan

2020 Lincoln Aviator Overview

Performance

The 2020 Lincoln Aviator offers two powertrain options:

Standard twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6:

• 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque
• 10-speed automatic transmission
• Standard rear-wheel drive (RWD) or available all-wheel drive (AWD)

Grand Touring plug-in hybrid:

• 3.0-liter V6 engine paired with electric motor
• The combined output of 494 horsepower and 630 lb-ft of torque
• 10-speed automatic transmission
• Standard all-wheel drive (AWD)

The standard V6 engine provides ample power for confident acceleration and passing maneuvers. The hybrid powertrain in the Grand Touring model offers even more notable performance, with the added benefit of improved fuel efficiency and the ability to drive short distances on electric power alone.

2020 Lincoln Aviator towing capacity:

• Up to 6,700 pounds when properly equipped (standard V6)
• Up to 5,600 pounds (hybrid)

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2020 Lincoln Aviator a top five-star overall safety rating. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the 2020 Aviator, equipped with upgraded headlights, a Top Safety Pick, the group’s second-highest award.

Standard safety features across all trims include:

• Dual-stage front airbags
• Front-seat side-impact airbags
• Side-curtain airbags
• Stability control
• Traction control
• Rearview monitor
• The Lincoln Co-Pilot360 suite of driver assistance technologies includes:
  • Forward collision warning
  • Automatic emergency braking
  • Blind-spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert
  • Lane-keeping system
  • Automatic high beams

Additional available features include:

• Adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assist
• Active park assist plus
• Reverse brake assist

Driving

The 2020 Lincoln Aviator delivers a driving experience that balances luxury comfort with capable performance. The standard twin-turbocharged V6 engine provides smooth and potent acceleration, making highway merging and passing effortless.

Steering is precise and well-weighted, offering good feedback to the driver. Despite its size, the Aviator handles corners with composure, exhibiting minimal body roll for a vehicle in its class. The available all-wheel drive system enhances traction and stability, particularly in inclement weather.

Ride quality is a standout feature, especially with the optional Air Glide Suspension. This system can automatically lower the vehicle for improved aerodynamics at highway speeds or raise it for additional ground clearance when needed. The Adaptive Suspension with Road Preview uses forward-facing cameras to detect upcoming road irregularities and adjust the suspension preemptively, further enhancing ride comfort.

Interior

The 2020 Lincoln Aviator interior is a luxury showcase reinforced by numerous upscale comfort and convenience features:

• Available 30-way Perfect Position front seats with massage function
• Heated and ventilated front seats
• Available heated second-row seats
• Three-zone automatic climate control
• Panoramic Vista Roof (available)
• Power-folding third-row seats

The Aviator's cabin is spacious and offers comfortable seating for up to seven passengers. The second-row bench seat can be replaced with captain's chairs, reducing the seating capacity to six but improving comfort for second-row passengers.

Cargo space is generous:

• 18.3 cubic feet behind the third row
• 41.8 cubic feet with the third row folded
• 77.7 cubic feet with both rear rows folded

The interior materials are high-quality, while the design is modern and elegant, with a floating center console and a minimalist dashboard layout. The Black Label trim offers exclusive interior themes with premium materials and unique color combinations, further elevating the luxury experience.

2020 Lincoln Aviator interior features include:

• Leather-wrapped steering wheel with power tilt/telescoping column
• Ambient lighting
• Wireless charging pad
• Hands-free liftgate

Technology

The 2020 Lincoln Aviator comes equipped with many advanced technology features:

• 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• Lincoln SYNC 3 with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Available 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
• Available head-up display
• Phone As A Key technology
• 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot capability
• Available Revel Ultima 3D Audio System with 28 speakers

Fuel Economy

The 2020 Lincoln Aviator offers varying fuel economy ratings depending on the powertrain and drivetrain. EPA fuel economy estimates are as follows:

3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6:

• RWD (mpg): 18 city / 26 highway / 21 combined
• AWD (mpg): 17 city / 24 highway / 20 combined

Grand Touring Hybrid (AWD):

• 56 MPGe combined (electric + gas)
• 23 mpg combined (gas only)

2020 Lincoln Aviator Reviews

2020 Lincoln Aviator consumer reviews on Kelley Blue Book are very mixed, with an average rating of 3.6 out of 5. Scores are below average for value and reliability but rise significantly for comfort and styling.

Reasons to Buy It

• Potential powertrains including a plug-in hybrid option
• Spacious and luxuriously appointed interior
• Notable towing capacity
• Signature Lincoln exterior styling
• Standard advanced driver aids

Problems

• Some owners report electrical system issues
• Fuel economy in non-hybrid models is average for the class
• Third-row seating is tight for adults
• Higher trims can be expensive compared to some competitors
• Some advanced features are only available on higher trims

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CoPilot's Take

The 2020 Lincoln Aviator represents a strong entry in the luxury midsize SUV segment, offering an appealing blend of style, performance, and technology. Its positives include a powerful standard engine, an optional plug-in hybrid powertrain, and a luxuriously appointed interior. The Aviator's distinctive inside and out design helps it stand apart from its Ford Explorer platform-mate and many competitors.

However, potential buyers should be aware of some shortfalls. While the interior is spacious and well-appointed, the third row best suits children or occasional adult use. Some advanced features are reserved for higher trims, which can considerably increase the price, although this effect is less impactful for a used car.

Some owners have reported reliability concerns related to the vehicle's electrical system. While these issues may be addressed through software updates or as production matures, they're worth considering for potential buyers.

2020 Lincoln Aviator FAQs

How much should I pay for a 2020 Lincoln Aviator?

According to CoPilot national listings, a 2020 Lincoln Aviator costs $23,000 to $53,000, depending on age, condition, equipment, and marketplace conditions.

Does the 2020 Lincoln Aviator hold its value?

The 2020 Lincoln Aviator has shown average to slightly below-average value retention for its class. Luxury vehicles typically depreciate faster than mainstream models, but the 2020 Aviator's relative newness and desirable features help support its resale value.

However, like most vehicles, the Aviator will experience significant depreciation in its first few years. Exact depreciation rates vary based on mileage, condition, and local market demand.

How many miles is a 2024 Lincoln Aviator good for?

With proper maintenance, a Lincoln Aviator should be capable of lasting 200,000 miles. However, several factors can influence a vehicle's longevity:

• Regular maintenance and timely repairs
• Driving habits and conditions
• Climate and environmental factors
• Build quality and inherent reliability of specific components

It's worth noting that while the powertrain may last this long, other components like electronics and interior materials may show wear or become outdated sooner. As always, following the recommended maintenance schedule and addressing issues promptly can significantly extend the vehicle's life.

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