2027 Lincoln Aviator Expert Review
Reviewed by Alex Leanse
Slotting between the smaller Nautilus and larger Navigator, the midsize Aviator is a relatively sporty offering in Lincoln’s all-SUV lineup. Sharing fundamentals with the Ford Explorer, the Aviator distinguishes itself with refined tuning, a strong turbocharged powertrain, and luxurious finishing.
This generation of Aviator was introduced for 2020 and received a significant refresh for 2025. Rivals in the luxury midsize SUV segment include the BMW X5, Genesis GV80, and Cadillac Vistiq.
For 2027, all Aviator models get a four-year subscription to the Lincoln Security package, which adds theft alerts, engine start inhibition, stolen vehicle assistance, and insurance deductible reimbursement. Asher Gray, Avalanche Gray, and Ruby Red paint colors are introduced. A black-painted roof is now available on models in Reserve trim with the Jet package.
European and Japanese nameplates dominate the luxury SUV market, but the Lincoln Aviator offers an upscale three-row experience in a distinctly American way.
Although the 2025 refresh didn’t make the exterior look better than before , the interior impression became stronger. Materials are rich, the layout is sensible and user-friendly, and the large displays integrate without overwhelming the space.
Various buttons and switches feel convincingly solid, and the available 30-way adjustable front seats are exceptionally comfortable. The third row, though, while easy enough to access , is cramped and not very well appointed.
On the move, the Aviator backs up its luxury credentials with smooth, strong performance from its twin-turbo engine and well-sorted chassis. It may not be the sportiest, plushest, or most rugged SUV in the segment, but the Aviator succeeds by delivering a characterful and convincingly premium driving experience .
Top-Ranked Competitors:
Every Aviator is equipped with a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 engine that produces 383 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque. That output goes through a 10-speed automatic transmission to standard RWD or optional AWD. In MotorTrend testing, a 2025 Aviator with AWD accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds.
MPGs and Range
Fuel economy for the Aviator measures at about 18/25 city/highway with RWD and 17/25 with AWD. Driving range on a full tank of gas is approximately 420 miles for the RWD model and 400 miles for the AWD version.
Safety Ratings and Features
In its most recent NHTSA crash safety testing for 2026, the Aviator earned a five-star overall safety score, the highest possible.
All Aviator models include the Lincoln Co-Pilot 360 suite of driver assists and active safety features. Rain-sensing windshield wipers, front and rear automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, emergency evasive steering assist, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control are all standard.
A four-year subscription to BlueCruise is also included, providing hands-free driving capability on pre-mapped roads.
Cargo Space and Interior Room
The Aviator emphasizes its first two rows; the third row is cramped and not as nicely appointed. Rivals work better as family-oriented three-row SUVs. Cargo space in the Lincoln is ample, however.
Legroom (first/second/third rows)
Cargo Space (behind third/second/first rows)
2027 Lincoln Aviator
43.0/40.1/29.2 inches
18.3/41.8/77.7 cubic feet
2027 Genesis GV80
41.5/38.7/30.3 inches
11.6/36.5/71.7 cubic feet
2027 Lexus TX
41.6/39.5/33.5 inches
20.2/57.4/97.0 cubic feet
When properly configured, the Aviator can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
All Aviator trims have a 12.4-inch digital gauge display and 13.2-inch infotainment touchscreen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, along with Google Assistant voice commands.
A wireless charging pad is in the front row, and eight USB ports are distributed between the three rows. A 360-degree camera and phone-as-key functionality add convenience.
Above the standard 10-speaker system, a Revel 28-speaker premium audio setup is available.
High-end Aviator models can be had with tech upgrades such as four-zone automatic climate control, multicolor interior ambient lighting, a head-up display, and adaptive LED headlights.
In entry-level Premiere trim, the Aviator is nicely equipped at about $60,000. Standard features include 20-inch wheels, quad exhaust tips, LED headlights and taillights, a power tailgate, and adaptive suspension dampers.
Inside, it has leatherette upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a heated steering wheel, three-zone automatic climate control, eight USB ports, a 13.2-inch touchscreen, a universal garage door opener, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
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At about $70,000, the midrange Aviator Reserve trim gains niceties such as 21-inch wheels, a panoramic moonroof, upgraded headlights, four-zone automatic climate control, interior ambient lighting, leather upholstery, a head-up display, and an illuminated Lincoln badge in the grille.
What Is Lincoln Black Label?
Black Label is the highest trim level for a Lincoln SUV. In the case of the Aviator, Black Label upgrades include 22-inch wheels, a premium grille pattern, power-assisted door handles, 30-way adjustable front seats, heated and ventilated first- and second-row seats, and a 28-speaker Revel audio system.
Exclusive exterior paint and interior upholstery colors denote the Aviator Black Label. Choosing Black Label also adds ownership perks such as maintenance pick-up and drop-off and complimentary car washes. The Aviator Black Label costs approximately $89,000.