FYI: The 2025 Lincoln Aviator Enhances Luxury with Advanced Tech and Refined Styling
WEST BLOOMFIELD, Mich. — Launched five years ago, the Lincoln Aviator marked a significant breakthrough for the brand. Built on an all-new rear-wheel-drive platform, the Aviator delivered a premium driving experience and aesthetic appeal that positioned it confidently among competitors like the Acura MDX, Volvo XC90, and Audi Q7. While Lincoln made only minimal changes over the years, the 2025 Lincoln Aviator now arrives with substantial updates in the form of a refreshed interior, minor styling tweaks, and an improved driving experience.
Advanced Tech Integration
Arguably the most significant upgrade for the 2025 Aviator is its new dashboard featuring a 13.2-inch touchscreen equipped with the "Lincoln Digital Experience" interface. This Android Automotive-based system allows for seamless use of Google Maps as the native navigation, voice control via Google Assistant, and the ability to download various apps from the Google Play Store. While wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto remain an option, the native interface offers a richer, smoother experience.
Lincoln has taken the integration further by embedding Google Maps into the 12.4-inch digital instrument panel, offering a more intuitive navigation experience. Music streaming and other infotainment functions are effortlessly managed through the interface, thanks to the Google Assistant and fluid, smartphone-like animations.
Interior Refinements
One of the most notable interior changes is the reduction of physical buttons for climate control, which have been relocated to a digital row at the bottom of the touchscreen. While this change modernizes the cabin, it may not sit well with those who prefer physical controls. Fortunately, the volume knob remains untouched.
Enhanced Driving Dynamics
The 2025 Aviator continues to employ its robust 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, delivering 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. The main mechanical upgrade lies in the retuned 10-speed automatic transmission, which now offers smoother shifts than ever before. While the 2025 Aviator retains its excellent ride quality thanks to its adaptive dampers and optional air suspension, it still prioritizes comfort over sporty handling, maintaining its reputation as a luxurious and serene three-row crossover.
Elevated Comfort and Convenience
Inside the cabin, the V6 engine remains unobtrusive, contributing to a tranquil environment until you tap into its full 400 horsepower. Even with the optional 22-inch wheels, the ride remains quiet and comfortable. The optional 28-speaker Revel audio system provides an immersive listening experience, and new tech additions, such as the Blue Cruise, offer enhanced driver assistance. Standard for four years (and then subscription-based), Blue Cruise facilitates hands-free lane changes and lane repositioning, although it still trails GM’s Super Cruise in overall performance.
Refreshed Design
Aesthetically, the 2025 Aviator presents a subtly revamped front fascia, highlighted by new headlights and a redesigned grille. Every unlock and lock sequence is accompanied by a welcoming light animation, enhancing the overall luxury feel.
For exterior paint options, the Cenote Green color, shown during the initial reveal, stands out as a top recommendation. Additionally, the Black Label theme persists with a new "Invitation" theme offering a more understated black exterior with laser-etched Kaya wood trim for those seeking a more classic look.
Comprehensive Luxury
The Black Label’s premium materials extend throughout the vehicle, even providing rear passengers with enhanced tech, such as climate and audio controls in the second row. While spacious, the Aviator’s third row doesn’t quite match the roomy offerings of larger competitors like the Lexus TX or the Volvo XC90.
Conclusion
In summary, the most impactful changes to the 2025 Lincoln Aviator are within its state-of-the-art tech suite, rivaling offerings from BMW, Audi, and Mercedes. Although the discontinuation of the plug-in hybrid variant is disappointing, the V6 powertrain still aligns well with the vehicle’s luxury mission.
The price increase for the base model to $59,890 and the Black Label trim to $88,390 is notable but justified given the enhanced standard features. While this adjustment makes mid-range trims comparable to alternatives like the Genesis GV80 and Volvo XC90, the Aviator remains a stellar example of American luxury.
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Jack Karney, Editor of Automotive.fyi