2003-2005 Lincoln Aviator: Road Test

Decent midrange and passing response may be expected, though the transmission is a bit slow to downshift. A test luxury AWD model accelerated to 60 mph in 8.3 seconds, which was just 0.1 second quicker than a V8 Explorer. Blame the Aviator's greater weight for sapping its extra horsepower. Towing capacity is 7100 pounds with AWD. Test AWD models have averaged 13.8 to 14.6 mpg in city/highway driving. Lincoln recommends premium fuel. Expect a more trucky feel than the car-based luxury competition, such as the Lexus RX 330. Even so, the Aviator is reasonably compliant, laudably devoid of sloppy steering and body motions. There's also a pleasant absence of side-to-side rocking over uneven surfaces. Lincoln-specific steering and suspension tuning, in combination with 17-inch tires, helps the Aviator feel more precise and nimble than its Ford/Mercury cousins. Relatively little body lean (for an SUV) is noticed in tight turns. A sure-footed grip on twisty roads is complemented by progressive brake-pedal action. Wind and road noise are unobjectionable, ranking low for an SUV. The smooth V8 is quiet at idle and cruise, though somewhat noisy under full throttle. Instrument markings are indistinct in sunlight. Controls are clearly identified, and most are illuminated and within easy reach, though center-console-mounted power window switches are hard to operate without a downward glance. Materials and finish are a step above the Explorer/Mountaineer, but still below the luxury SUV standard set by similarly-priced Lexus, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz models. Plenty of silver-finish plastic instrument surrounds are in view. Front seatbacks lack a power-recline feature, but the standard tilt steering wheel, memory seat, and adjustable pedals help custom-tailor the driving position. Some testers have said leg room is only adequate for large adults. Visibility is good, and rear-obstacle detection adds confidence when backing up. Standard running boards ease the high step-in. Second-row buckets accommodate two adults in reasonable comfort. Three could squeeze into the available bench seat. Either way, there's generous head room, plus better knee and foot clearance than in most midsize SUVs. The third-row cushion is low to the floor and pancake-flat, but head room and leg space are surprisingly good. Second-row seats tip forward in a single easy motion, but access to the third row is for the young and limber. Cargo space is tight behind the third-row seat, which does not fold flat, and the position of the seatback release makes the process awkward. Presence of second-row buckets leaves open gaps that could swallow small items. Plenty of interior storage bins and cubbies are available. Even though the large hatch glass opens separately, and dips low into the tailgate to aid loading, the tailgate is weighty to open or close.

Value for the Money
Aviator is more than competent, has V8 muscle, and offers an array of features at a relatively reasonable new-vehicle price. Still, BMW and Lexus rivals top this Lincoln for quality of interior materials, overall refinement, and prestige. Because resale values are somewhat low, some tempting used-vehicle prices might be found.