PHEV Review: 2022 Lincoln Aviator PHEV

Photo Credits: Autotrader, Edmunds 

Impressive power for every road and journey you take

Overview

Performance: electric motor, twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter, V6, 494 horsepower

Mileage estimate: 56 mpge

Price estimate: From $68,800 to $88,300

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Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles

Drivetrain Warranty: 6 years/70,000 miles

Roadside Assistance: unlimited/unlimited

Corrosion Warranty: 5 years/unlimited

2022 Lincoln Aviator Plug-in Hybrid Review

Intro

When the luxury division of Ford decided to reintroduce the Lincoln Aviator three years ago, one of the surprising things was it arrived with an optional plug-in hybrid among its trim models.

The Aviator Grand Touring is the first plug-in hybrid electric vehicle manufactured by Lincoln. Following a 14-year absence, the Aviator resurfaced in 2020, featuring an all-new design, improved powertrains, considerable technology, and advanced driver aids. It gained immediate attention, demonstrated by sales of 23,080 which took only a slight dip last year at 20,924.

While it has a number of fine qualities, midsize SUV shoppers might get scared away by the Aviator’s plug-in hybrid’s (PHEV) sticker price which starts at $68,700. That’s roughly $17,000 more than the gas-powered Aviator ($51,500).

The Aviator slots between the full-size Navigator and the Nautilus, a two-row SUV. The Aviator is based on the popular Ford Explorer PHEV, which also came out in 2020. Although emulating the Explorer can be a good thing, the starting price of the Explorer PHEV (roughly $50,800) might tempt some to go with the less expensive SUV.

However, there’s no disputing the Aviator has some enviable qualities that surpass the Explorer. It has three rows of seating, can carry seven passengers, has a stellar interior, delivers an excellent ride, and has fantastic performance. The Aviator comes in five trim levels (Standard, Reserve, Black Label, Grand Touring and Grand Touring Black Label). This review is focused on the Grand Touring PHEV model.

Charging

Powered by a 13.6 kWh battery, the Aviator has an electric range of 21 miles, good enough for some minor trips around town or transporting the kids to and from school. Charging the battery takes three to four hours using a standard 240-volt home outlet that many EV owners employ.

Performance and Range

The Aviator has lots of get-up and go. It has a powerful hybrid powertrain – an electric motor, a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter, V6 capable that’s capable of delivering 494 horsepower and 630 pound-feet of torque. It comes standard with all-wheel drive and a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Aviator has quick acceleration, going 0-60 in 5.7 seconds. Fuel economy is solid at 56 mpge in electric mode and 22-25 mpg overall.

For a large SUV, the 5,673-pound Aviator is agile. The ride quality is smooth and quiet, regardless of traveling on the freeway or around town. It corners well and has impressive braking, giving the driver a high degree of confidence on any surface. One knock against the Aviator PHEV is a somewhat awkward transition when it goes from electric to gas-powered.

Interior Space

The Aviator cabin is comfortable and well-equipped. It comes standard with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Wi-Fi hotspot, satellite radio, and Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration. There are lots of soft-touch areas that give the interior that luxury feel. The controls are both accessible to the driver and easy to read.

Due to its 30-way power adjustable front seats with massage functions, if one can’t find an ultra-comfortable position, don’t blame the Aviator. The second row will seat three adults comfortably. The third row can’t deliver the same claim – like most SUVs, the back row is mostly suitable for kids.

The cargo area is generous with 18.3 cubic feet behind the third row. It expands to 54 cubes with the second row down and 77.7 with both rows folded to the floor. The Aviator also has lots of small-item storage, several large cubbies, and numerous cupholders and places to store devices.

Conclusion

Judging by its successful first-year sales, there’s plenty of interest in the 2022 Lincoln Aviator plug-in hybrid. The midsize electric SUV has lots of appeal, including a spacious interior, terrific performance, and three rows of seating.

– J.W.

Media Video Review: Lincoln Aviator PHEV