A sleek, black luxury SUV driving down a winding road surrounded by a lush, forested landscape.

Lincoln Navigator vs. Aviator: Full-Size Power vs. Midsize Sophistication

When it comes to luxury SUVs, few match the elegance, innovation, and performance of a Lincoln. But with two standout options, the commanding Lincoln Navigator and the sleek Lincoln Aviator, how do you choose? It all comes down to lifestyle, needs, and personal preference.

In this comparison, we’re putting the 2025 Lincoln Aviator and the iconic Lincoln Navigator side by side, examining everything from performance and capability to interior comfort, safety, and style. Let’s decide which Lincoln SUV is the perfect match for your driveway.

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Design & Capability: Bold & Spacious vs. Sleek & Confident

When it comes to making an impression, the Navigator and Aviator do it in two distinct ways. Which one suits your style?

Lincoln Navigator

With its ultra-modern illuminated grille and full-width lighting, the Navigator is built to command attention. Signature chrome details and a bold stance give it undeniable presence. The cabin is a sanctuary, offering seating for up to eight, premium leather, and advanced ambient lighting.

Need cargo space? The Navigator delivers in spades with up to 120.2 cubic feet of maximum cargo room when both the second and third rows are folded.

Lincoln Aviator

The Lincoln Aviator 2025 brings style that whispers rather than shouts. Slightly more compact and sleek silhouette than the Navigator, it’s still spacious where it counts; offering seating for six or seven and meticulous interior craftsmanship.

In terms of cargo, the Aviator boasts a maximum of 78.6 cubic feet of space behind the front row and 16.5 cubic feet behind the third, perfect for getaways, groceries, or golf clubs.

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Performance: Big Towing vs. Turbocharged Precision

Power is part of the Lincoln DNA. The Navigator is a muscle-packed heavyweight with serious towing chops, while the Aviator delivers a more agile, performance-tuned experience without compromising on strength.

Lincoln Navigator

Every Navigator model is equipped with a 3.5L twin-turbocharged V6 engine that pumps out 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and available 4x4, it’s capable of towing up to 8,700 lbs. Adaptive suspension and available Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package add even more confidence on long hauls.

Lincoln Aviator

Under the hood of the 2025 Lincoln Aviator is a twin-turbo 3.0L V6 engine generating 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, making it one of the strongest performers in the midsize luxury SUV segment. Need more power? The Grand Touring plug-in hybrid trim cranks things up to 494 horsepower. Towing capacity for the Aviator tops out at 5,000 lbs; more than enough for smaller trailers and boats.

Comfort & Technology: Third‑Row Luxury vs. Tech‑Forward Cabin

When it comes to cabin experience, both the Lincoln Aviator and Navigator bring their own flavor of sophistication. From indulgent seating to cutting-edge connectivity, here's how each model creates a first-class experience behind the wheel.

Lincoln Navigator

Inside, the Navigator’s cabin is nothing short of opulent: panoramic display, 28‑speaker Revel Ultima 3D audio, and massaging seats, all designed for maximum comfort and luxury on every journey.

Lincoln Aviator

The Aviator’s cabin combines refinement and innovation; available Lincoln BlueCruise, wireless charging, panoramic roof, and an intuitive digital cockpit. The Lincoln Aviator 2024’s interior feels fresh, modern, and personal.

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Two luxury SUVs, one black and one white, are parked in front of a large gray wall against a cloudy sky at sunset.

Safety & Family Features: Peace of Mind Comes Standard

Both the Lincoln Navigator and Aviator are packed with advanced driver-assist features designed to protect what matters most.

In both SUVs, Lincoln’s Co‑Pilot360® suite delivers confident driving with sensors, cameras, and intelligent automation that work seamlessly in the background, giving you more control, comfort, and peace of mind.

Lincoln Navigator

The Lincoln Navigator comes fully equipped with the latest Co‑Pilot360® 2.0 features, offering:

  • ActiveGlide™ Hands-Free Driving

  • Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop‑and‑Go

  • Lane-Centering and Lane‑Change Assist

  • Rear Seat Safety

Lincoln Aviator

The Lincoln Aviator brings you the same high-level safety tech in a slightly more compact form:

  • Lincoln Co‑Pilot360® Plus

  • Available Active Park Assist 2.0

  • 360-Degree Camera

  • Family-First Features

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Choose the Lincoln Navigator If You:

  • Need Full-Size Space and Comfort: The Navigator models deliver best-in-class third-row legroom and generous cargo space for family road trips or gear-heavy weekends.

  • Appreciate Ultra-Luxury Finishes: With rich leather, open-pore wood, and ambient lighting, every inch is designed for first-class comfort.

  • Demand Maximum Power and Towing: The Navigator’s twin-turbo V6 delivers up to 8,700 lbs of towing; perfect for boats, trailers, and everything in between.

  • Want Advanced Tech Across All Rows: From the SYNC® 4 system to massaging seats and available ActiveGlide™ hands-free driving, it’s loaded with smart features.

  • Drive with a Crowd: With seating for up to eight, it’s built for big families, team carpools, or group getaways in style.

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Choose the Lincoln Aviator If You:

  • Crave Sporty Handling in a Luxury SUV: The Lincoln Aviator 2025 is a midsize standout with nimble performance that’s easy to maneuver and exciting to drive.

  • Love Seamless Tech Features: Enjoy full tech integration including available BlueCruise, immersive Revel® audio, and the latest 2025 Lincoln Aviator specs.

  • Prefer a Smaller Footprint: The Aviator’s slightly smaller size makes it ideal for tight city streets, garages, and busy school pickups.

  • Want Stylish, Modern Interiors: The Lincoln Aviator 2024’s interior offers a sophisticated cabin with sleek materials, elegant curves, and thoughtful design.

  • Need Everyday Versatility: Ideal for growing families or couples with an active lifestyle; roomy but not oversized.

Ready to Drive Away in Your Next Lincoln?

Visit J.C. Lewis Lincoln Savannah today and experience the difference. Prefer to start online? Browse our full inventory of Lincoln Aviator 2025 and Navigator models online. When you’re ready to experience Lincoln luxury firsthand, schedule your test drive and let our knowledgable staff help you drive away in an SUV made for your life.

Schedule a Test Drive

Frequently Asked Questions: The Lincoln Navigator & Aviator

Still weighing your options between the Lincoln Aviator 2025 and the iconic Navigator models? We've answered some of the most common questions drivers ask us about these standout SUVs.

+ How do you use the hands-free liftgate on the Lincoln Aviator?

To activate the hands-free liftgate, make sure your key fob is with you and simply kick your foot underneath the rear bumper: no need to press a button. It’s a convenient feature for loading groceries or gear when your hands are full.

+ Does the 2024 Lincoln Aviator have BlueCruise?

BlueCruise, Lincoln’s semi-autonomous driving technology, is not currently standard on the Lincoln Aviator 2024 interior lineup, but advanced driver-assist features like Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane-Centering are available and incredibly intuitive.

+ Where is the Lincoln Aviator made?

The Lincoln Aviator is proudly assembled at the Chicago Assembly Plant in Illinois, where innovation and luxury craftsmanship come together.

+ Is the Lincoln Aviator reliable?

Yes! The Aviator receives strong marks for reliability and owner satisfaction. With its robust powertrain, premium materials, and advanced tech, it’s built to deliver both comfort and peace of mind.

+ How much is a Lincoln Navigator?

Navigator pricing starts around $84,000 MSRP, depending on the trim and package options. Premium trims like the Black Label or Navigator Reserve will cost more but offer additional luxuries and features.

+ How long is a Lincoln Navigator?

The standard Lincoln Navigator is about 210 inches long, while the Navigator L (extended version) stretches to approximately 221.9 inches, offering even more space for passengers and cargo.

+ How long do Lincoln Navigators last?

With proper maintenance, a Lincoln Navigator can easily last over 200,000 miles. Built on a strong platform with high-quality components, it’s designed for long-haul durability and luxury.

+ Which Lincoln Navigator models have massage seats?

Massage seats are available on upper trims like the Reserve and standard on the top-tier Navigator Black Label. The available 24-way Perfect Position front seats make every drive feel like a spa retreat.

+ How many seats are in the Lincoln Navigator?

The Navigator offers seating for up to eight passengers when equipped with a second-row bench seat, or seven with captain’s chairs. It’s one of the roomiest luxury SUVs in its class.