2022 Lincoln Aviator: A Comprehensive Overview
The 2022 Lincoln Aviator continues to be a strong contender in the luxury three-row SUV segment, offering a compelling blend of refined comfort, potent performance, and advanced technology. Aimed at families and individuals seeking a sophisticated and capable vehicle, the Aviator strikes a balance between everyday practicality and upscale indulgence.
Highlights
- Engine Options: The Aviator offers two formidable engine choices, both paired with a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission.
- 3.0L Twin-Turbocharged V6: This standard powerhouse delivers an impressive 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, providing effortless acceleration and confident passing power. It's more than capable for daily driving and spirited highway cruising.
- 3.0L Twin-Turbocharged V6 Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) Grand Touring: For those seeking enhanced efficiency and exhilarating performance, the Grand Touring model boasts a combined output of 494 horsepower and 630 lb-ft of torque. This potent powertrain allows for impressive acceleration and the ability to travel on electric power alone for short distances, reducing emissions and fuel consumption.
- Safety Features: Lincoln prioritizes occupant safety with a comprehensive suite of standard and available driver-assistance technologies.
- Lincoln Co-Pilot360™: This standard package includes essential features like Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking (detects potential frontal collisions and applies brakes), Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert (warns of vehicles in blind spots and when backing up), Lane-Keeping System (helps prevent unintentional lane departure), and Automatic High Beams.
- Available Lincoln Co-Pilot360™ Plus: Enhances safety with features like Adaptive Cruise Control (maintains a set speed and distance from the vehicle ahead), Evasive Steering Assist (helps steer around a collision if braking alone is insufficient), and Reverse Brake Assist (automatically applies brakes when reversing if a collision is detected).
- 360-Degree Camera: Provides a bird's-eye view of the vehicle's surroundings, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces much easier.
- Trim Summary: The Aviator is offered in a well-defined hierarchy of trims, each building upon the previous one with increasing levels of luxury and features.
- Reserve: The entry point to the Aviator experience, the Reserve trim offers a premium foundation with excellent standard amenities, including leather-appointed seating, a large infotainment touchscreen, and the core Co-Pilot360™ suite.
- Black Label: Representing the pinnacle of Lincoln luxury, the Black Label trims offer unparalleled opulence. These trims are distinguished by exclusive interior design themes, premium materials like Venetian leather and Alcantara, and a more personalized ownership experience with dedicated concierge services and curated benefits.
- Grand Touring (PHEV): This dedicated trim level is exclusively for the plug-in hybrid powertrain, offering the ultimate in performance and efficiency, alongside the premium features associated with the Reserve and Black Label levels.
- Other Notable Aspects:
- Smooth and Quiet Ride: Lincoln's signature commitment to comfort is evident in the Aviator's exceptionally smooth and hushed ride, thanks to its refined suspension tuning and excellent sound insulation.
- Spacious and Upscale Interior: The cabin is a sanctuary of luxury, with high-quality materials, comfortable seating (available with massage functions), and ample space for passengers in all three rows.
- Advanced Infotainment: A user-friendly SYNC® 3 infotainment system with a large touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and available navigation ensures seamless connectivity.
- Adaptive Suspension: Available Adaptive Suspension with Road Preview uses a forward-facing camera to scan the road ahead and proactively adjust the suspension for optimal comfort and control.
What to Expect
Owning a 2022 Lincoln Aviator generally translates to a refined and comfortable ownership experience. The vehicle is engineered for smooth, quiet cruising, making long journeys and daily commutes a pleasure. Regular maintenance is typical for a luxury SUV, involving oil changes, tire rotations, and fluid checks at recommended intervals. While the turbocharged V6 offers robust performance, it will require premium fuel to achieve its full potential.
Insurance costs for the Aviator are likely to be in the mid-to-high range, reflecting its luxury status, powerful engines, and advanced technology. It's advisable to obtain quotes from multiple insurance providers to find the best coverage for your needs. The PHEV Grand Touring model might have slightly higher insurance premiums due to its more complex powertrain and potentially higher repair costs.
Potential Considerations
While the Aviator excels in many areas, there are a few points buyers should be aware of:
- Third-Row Space: While the Aviator offers a third row, it is best suited for children or shorter adults on longer journeys. Adults might find it a bit cramped for extended periods.
- Infotainment System Responsiveness: While generally user-friendly, some users have reported occasional lag or slower response times from the infotainment system compared to some competitors.
- Fuel Economy (Non-Hybrid): The standard V6, while powerful, has an average fuel economy for its class. Those prioritizing fuel efficiency will find the Grand Touring PHEV a much more economical option.
- Rear Visibility: The Aviator's stylish, sloped rear window can somewhat compromise rearward visibility, making the standard 360-degree camera system particularly valuable.
Overall Summary
The 2022 Lincoln Aviator stands out as a highly competent and luxurious three-row SUV. It delivers a serene and comfortable ride, a well-appointed and spacious interior, and a choice of powerful and capable powertrains, including an impressive plug-in hybrid option. With its comprehensive safety features and upscale appointments, the Aviator is a compelling choice for those seeking a sophisticated and capable family vehicle that offers a touch of indulgence.
