2025 Lincoln Aviator First Drive Review: The three-row Aviator features premium tech and a fresh face while retaining everything that makes it great
The Lincoln Aviator: A Milestone in Luxury SUV Evolution
The Lincoln Aviator made a significant impact five years ago, positioning itself as a standout in the luxury SUV market. Built on a brand-new rear-drive-based platform, specifically tailored for Lincoln, it delivered a driving experience that rivaled top-tier luxury SUVs. Competing on merit alone, the Aviator held its own against heavyweights like the Acura MDX, Volvo XC90, and Audi Q7, without relying on being a value option.
2025 Lincoln Aviator: What’s New?
After years of minimal changes, Lincoln has introduced several updates for the 2025 Aviator. The interior has been refreshed, featuring a new dashboard and a more refined driving experience. While the exterior sees minor styling tweaks, the most significant upgrades are in technology and infotainment.
A Technological Leap Forward: The Lincoln Digital Experience
The centerpiece of the 2025 Aviator’s interior is the new 13.2-inch touchscreen running the “Lincoln Digital Experience” interface. This Android Automotive-based system integrates Google Maps, Google Assistant, and access to the Google Play Store. For those who prefer other options, the system also supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The seamless integration and smooth performance make this a noteworthy upgrade from the older Sync 3 system.
Enhanced Driving Experience
The 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine remains the only powertrain option, delivering the same 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque as before. However, the 10-speed automatic transmission has been recalibrated for improved smoothness, resulting in a more refined driving experience. The 2025 Aviator continues to excel in providing a comfortable ride, thanks to its air suspension and adaptive dampers, although it doesn’t offer the same sporty handling as some competitors.
Focus on Comfort and Luxury
Lincoln has prioritized the comfort and relaxation of the Aviator’s occupants. The cabin remains quiet, with minimal intrusion from the V6 engine, even during acceleration. The available 28-speaker Revel audio system delivers an immersive sound experience, while the Blue Cruise hands-free driving system adds convenience during long highway drives.
Subtle Exterior Refinements
The 2025 Aviator features a refreshed front fascia with the new Lincoln Embrace welcome animation, adding a touch of elegance to the SUV’s design. The updated headlights now extend to the larger grille, giving the Aviator a more modern appearance. Lincoln also offers a new Cenote Green paint option, which enhances the vehicle’s aesthetic appeal.
Black Label Themes and Interior Upgrades
The Black Label themes continue for 2025, with the introduction of a new “Invitation” theme. This theme features a simple black color scheme with laser-etched Khaya wood trim, offering a more understated option for those who prefer classic luxury. Second-row passengers benefit from a new screen for controlling climate and audio, although the third row remains unchanged in terms of space.
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Conclusion: A Continued Example of American Luxury
The 2025 Lincoln Aviator’s technological advancements make it a strong contender in the luxury SUV market. Despite the discontinuation of the plug-in hybrid option and a price increase, the Aviator remains a compelling choice for those seeking a beautifully crafted, luxurious American SUV.