Are you wanting a Lincoln Aviator but don’t know what’s right for you? Let’s take a look at the two generations to see how they differ from one another.
Key takeaways
- The first generation came with 2 seating configurations allowing you to have the perfect back seats.
- 2003 saw the 100th anniversary of the Ford Motor Company and decided to commemorate that with the Kitty Hawk special edition that happened the same year as the birth of FMC.
- After a long hiatus, the Aviator came back swinging featuring tons of safety features that make you drive with confidence.
First Generation (2003-2005)
Hitting the scene in 2003, this model launched with three-row six-passenger seating. The second row came with bucket seats with center console or if the rear center console isn’t your thing, then you can look for the second-row bench seats.
The Aviator came with the choice of four-wheel drive configuration and towing packages, making this a versatile SUV from the start. While it wasn’t standard, the Aviator did offer heated and cooled front bucket seats making the ride even more comfortable. Also, a DVD-based navigation system was offered for 2003, giving you a whole new way to get to your destination.
While it may be hard to find, the Kitty Hawk edition is worth mentioning if you’re an enthusiast trying to track one down or simply want to know more history about the Aviator. This edition was made to commemorate the Wright Brothers' 1903 flight at Kitty Hawk, and the 100 year anniversary of Ford Motor Company. This trim came with unique badging, as well as limited-edition featured mink zebrano wood trim. The vehicle boasted argent painted and chrome grille. It also added a rear spoiler, chrome exhaust tip, as well as chrome wheels.
In 2007, Lincoln decided to rebrand the lineup, and in doing so, the Aviator went on hiatus.
Second Generation (2020-Present)
Teased in 2018, this model marked a new platform for the Ford Motor Company. While this vehicle was rear wheel drive, it had the build to be much more than that, able to have both all-wheel drive and front wheel drive.
Some of the tech additions that were seen was merging the vehicle camera system with the continuously controlled dampers. This system was called Suspension Preview Technology. It would monitor the road ahead for deformities and would prepare the suspension for impact and its effect on the vehicle to ensure that the ride will remain as smooth as possible.
This prototype also saw the inclusion of a phone key. This was aimed at shifting away from traditional keys, and going to something else that people keep on their person, the smartphone. As long as your phone was in your possession your vehicle would be able to start and unlock. In the event your phone is dead, the vehicle can still be opened with a keypad.
Safety features were added in this generation with the big one being the Lincoln CoPilot360. This packaged automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, a blind-spot information system with cross-traffic alert, lane-keeping system, and lane centering. This ensures that when you’re behind the wheel of a second-generation Aviator, yourself and others will be safe. Other safety features include automatic high beams, making it so you don’t have to do anything extra while driving on roads that are particularly hard to see.
When the vehicle is in reverse, you can look for the reverse camera, and in the event that something is in the way that you didn’t notice, the vehicle will automatically brake to avoid impact.
While it’s still new, 2025 saw the removal of the PHEV Grand Touring, making it even more appealing to buy used.
Summary
Despite going on a hiatus, Lincoln saw something special in this model, and when you come by to see one in person, you’ll have that same feeling. Come see us today at Jarrett!