2025 Lincoln Navigator vs. 2025 Lincoln Aviator: A Look at Three-Row Lincoln SUVs

Lincoln has long been synonymous with luxury and sophistication, and its lineup of SUVs for 2025 exemplifies this reputation. The 2025 Lincoln Navigator and 2025 Lincoln Aviator, both three-row SUVs, cater to those seeking a blend of comfort, technology, and performance, but they do so in distinct ways. Whether you're drawn to the commanding presence of the redesigned Navigator or the refined elegance of the Aviator, each model offers something unique to elevate your driving experience. Let’s dive into the details of these two luxury SUVs to help you determine which one fits your needs best.

2025 Lincoln Navigator: Power, Presence, and Premium Comfort

The redesigned 2025 Lincoln Navigator has redefined what it means to travel in style and command attention on the road. With its bold new exterior, advanced technology, and impressive capabilities, the Navigator sets a high bar in the large premium SUV segment.

Exterior and Design

The 2025 Navigator’s redesign emphasizes a commanding presence. Its bold new grille, sculpted hood, and expanded LED lighting enhance its stature and modern appeal. Available appearance packages, such as the Jet Appearance Package, provide further customization with monochromatic exterior finishes and high-gloss black 22-inch wheels. The class-exclusive power split-gate is a standout feature, offering a unique two-piece liftgate for easier loading and unloading of cargo while also doubling as a convenient seating area.

Interior and Technology

Inside, the Navigator offers a truly first-class experience. The cabin is meticulously crafted with premium materials and offers seating for up to eight passengers. The Perfect Position heated and ventilated front seats feature premium leather, a wide range of adjustability, and built-in massage functionality, ensuring ultimate comfort for long journeys. Second-row passengers are treated to a spacious and luxurious space, while the third row is thoughtfully designed to accommodate adults comfortably.

Tech enthusiasts will appreciate the 48-inch panoramic digital display that wraps around the driver’s line of sight. The Lincoln Digital Experience provides seamless connectivity, with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ standard, and includes features like downloadable apps for music, video, and gaming when the vehicle is in park. The Navigator also incorporates Lincoln Rejuvenate, a spa-like multi-sensory system offering massage, customizable lighting, and even digital scents to help you unwind.

Performance and Capability

Under the hood, the Navigator boasts a twin-turbocharged V6 engine delivering 440 horsepower and 510 lb.-ft. of torque. Its adaptive suspension and 10-speed automatic transmission ensure a smooth and confident ride. For those who need to tow, the Navigator doesn’t disappoint with its best-in-class towing capacity of 8,700 lbs. when equipped with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package. The addition of the new "Slow Climb" mode further enhances towing performance on steep grades.

The Navigator also features the latest Lincoln BlueCruise, which now offers smoother hands-free highway driving with advanced lane-centering and automatic speed adjustments around curves. Enhanced active noise cancellation and acoustic laminate glass create a whisper-quiet cabin, making every drive as relaxing as possible.

Space and Dimensions

With its expansive dimensions, the Navigator is ideal for families and adventurers alike. It offers 611 litres of cargo space behind the third row, which expands to 2,135 litres with both rear rows folded down in the standard model. The longer Navigator L provides even more space for those who need it.

2025 Lincoln Aviator: Sophistication Meets Versatility

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator, positioned as a midsize luxury SUV, offers a more agile and intimate take on Lincoln’s signature elegance. Combining driver-focused technologies with refined design and strong performance, the Aviator is perfect for those seeking a blend of luxury and practicality.

Exterior and Design

The Aviator exudes sleek sophistication with its sculpted lines and bold stance. The available Jet Appearance Package accentuates its dynamic look with a monochromatic color scheme, a unique grille, and striking high-gloss black wheels. Lincoln’s signature “Embrace” welcome lighting greets you as you approach, while the available Air Glide Suspension lowers the vehicle for easier entry and exit.

Interior and Technology

Inside, the Aviator delivers a refined and tech-forward cabin with seating for up to seven passengers. The second-row configuration can be customized to include a bench seat, captain’s chairs with a pass-through, or a centre console. The third row, equipped with PowerFold® technology, folds flat at the touch of a button for effortless cargo access.

The Aviator’s advanced tech offerings rival those of its larger sibling. The Lincoln Digital Experience, powered by Google, provides real-time navigation with globally sourced data and seamless voice commands. Other features include a wireless charging pad, a head-up display, and the available Revel® Ultima 3D Audio System with 28 speakers for a truly immersive listening experience.

Performance and Driving Experience

The Aviator is powered by a 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine, producing an impressive 400 horsepower and 415 lb.-ft. of torque—the highest standard output in its class. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, the Aviator delivers a responsive and composed ride. The available Air Glide Suspension adapts to your chosen drive mode, optimizing ride height and comfort for various conditions.

Drivers can choose from multiple Lincoln Drive Modes to customize performance, from a sporty feel to a more relaxed, fuel-efficient ride. For added convenience, the Aviator features hands-free driving capabilities through Lincoln BlueCruise, which now includes Lane Change Assist and In-Lane Repositioning for smoother highway navigation.

Space and Cargo

While smaller than the Navigator, the Aviator still offers ample cargo space. With both the second and third rows folded flat, it provides up to 2,078 litres of cargo capacity. This versatility makes it a strong contender for families or anyone who needs a flexible vehicle for day-to-day use.

Key Differences Between Navigator and Aviator

1- Size and Capacity: The Navigator is larger, offering seating for up to eight and greater cargo capacity, while the Aviator’s midsize frame is more maneuverable and seats seven.

2- Performance: Both vehicles deliver excellent power, but the Navigator’s higher towing capacity and additional torque make it ideal for heavy-duty tasks. The Aviator, with its twin-turbo V6, offers a smoother, sportier driving experience.

3- Technology: Both SUVs feature the Lincoln Digital Experience and BlueCruise, but the Navigator’s larger panoramic display and luxury enhancements like Lincoln Rejuvenate elevate its tech offering.

4- Luxury Features: The Navigator provides a more opulent interior with premium materials and enhanced seating options, while the Aviator balances luxury with practicality.

Which Lincoln SUV Is Right for You?

The choice between the 2025 Lincoln Navigator and Aviator ultimately depends on your priorities. If you need a large, powerful SUV with uncompromising luxury and towing capability, the Navigator is the clear winner. However, if you prefer a more agile, tech-savvy vehicle with versatile seating and plenty of refinement, the Aviator is an excellent choice. Both models uphold Lincoln’s legacy of delivering premium SUVs designed to make every journey extraordinary.