2020 Lincoln Aviator Black Label Review: Redefining Luxury SUV Performance

Introduction: A Luxury SUV That Defies Expectations

The 2020 Lincoln Aviator represents a bold statement from Ford's luxury division, combining American opulence with unexpected dynamic capabilities. Nestled between the smaller Nautilus and larger Navigator in Lincoln's SUV lineup, the Aviator Black Label we tested in California's wine country proved equally comfortable navigating mountain switchbacks as it was cruising through vineyard-lined valleys.

What makes the Aviator particularly compelling is its shared platform with the Ford Explorer, which allows Lincoln to offer premium features at a more accessible price point than German competitors. During our extensive test drive through Northern California's varied terrain, the Aviator consistently impressed with its balanced personality - refined enough for luxury buyers yet engaging enough to satisfy driving enthusiasts.

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Driving Dynamics: Performance Beyond Expectations

Powertrain and Acceleration

At the heart of the Aviator's surprising performance lies its standard 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, delivering 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission, this powertrain combination provides:

• 0-60 mph acceleration in approximately 5.3 seconds (comparable to sport sedans)
• Seamless power delivery across the rev range
• Intelligent gear selection for various driving conditions

The available Grand Touring plug-in hybrid variant boosts output to 494 combined horsepower while offering an EPA-estimated 21 miles of electric-only range - a unique proposition in this segment.

Handling and Suspension Technology

The Aviator's optional Dynamic Handling Package transforms this luxury SUV into a competent backroad companion. Key components include:

• Adaptive suspension with road preview (uses cameras to adjust damping)
• Air springs that automatically level the vehicle
• Adaptive steering that varies ratio based on speed
• Five selectable drive modes (including dedicated deep snow/sand setting)

In Excite mode, the Aviator demonstrates remarkable body control for its size, with reduced roll in corners and sharper throttle response. The electromechanical steering provides adequate feedback, though it can't completely mask the vehicle's substantial weight in tight corners.

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Interior Luxury: Black Label Refinement

Cabin Materials and Design

The Aviator Black Label elevates Lincoln's design language with exquisite attention to detail:

• Available Venetian leather upholstery with perforated inserts
• Authentic open-pore wood trim (Chalet or Flight themed)
• Reconfigurable 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
• Head-up display projecting speed, navigation, and safety info

While most surfaces impress with their quality, some controls like the door-mounted seat switches feel out of place with their plastic construction in an otherwise premium environment.

Seating Comfort and Space

The Aviator offers three seating configurations:

1. Standard 7-passenger (second-row bench)
2. Optional 6-passenger (second-row captain's chairs)
3. Executive package (second-row console with climate controls)

Front seat comfort proves somewhat controversial - while the available 30-way adjustable seats (yes, thirty) offer unprecedented customization, their narrow bolsters may discomfort broader-shouldered occupants. Second-row space is competitive with class leaders, though the third row remains best suited for children or occasional adult use.

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Technology and Safety Features

Infotainment System

Lincoln's SYNC 3 system has evolved considerably, now featuring:

• 10.1-inch touchscreen with crisp graphics
• Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Available 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D audio system
• 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot capability

The interface remains intuitive, though some functions require diving into menus rather than offering dedicated controls.

Advanced Safety Systems

All Aviators come equipped with Lincoln Co-Pilot360 standard, including:

• Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
• Blind spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert
• Lane keeping assist with departure warning
• Auto high-beam headlights

The optional Co-Pilot360 Plus package adds:

• Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go
• Lane centering assist (not hands-free)
• Reverse automatic braking
• Active park assist system
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Competitive Landscape and Value Proposition

The Aviator enters a crowded segment dominated by European luxury brands. How it compares:

Where the Aviator shines is in offering V6 power standard when competitors often use smaller four-cylinder engines in base models. The Black Label trim's exclusive benefits (including complimentary car washes and annual detailing) further enhance its value proposition for luxury buyers.

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Final Verdict: Who Should Consider the Aviator?

The 2020 Lincoln Aviator Black Label makes its strongest case for:

• Luxury SUV buyers seeking American design with European driving dynamics
• Families needing three-row seating without sacrificing performance
• Tech-focused drivers who value advanced safety systems
• Eco-conscious buyers interested in the plug-in hybrid option

While the Aviator isn't perfect - the seats could offer better comfort and the third row remains cramped - it represents a compelling alternative to established European luxury SUVs. For buyers willing to look beyond traditional badges, the Aviator delivers surprising performance wrapped in a beautiful, tech-laden package.

Before purchasing, we recommend test driving both the Aviator and its competitors back-to-back, paying particular attention to:

1. Seat comfort on longer drives
2. Third-row accessibility and space
3. Infotainment system usability
4. Handling characteristics in your typical driving environment

With its combination of power, luxury, and value, the 2020 Lincoln Aviator Black Label deserves serious consideration in the competitive mid-size luxury SUV segment.