The Lincoln Aviator will soon receive its first major update since the current generation of the mid-size luxury SUV went on sale for the 2020 model year.
A prototype for the updated version has been spotted ahead of a likely debut later this year or early next year, most likely as a 2024 model year.
The prototype hints at minor styling tweaks front and rear. The new face of the updated Aviator was revealed in part thanks to a graphic depicting the vehicle on the infotainment screen featured in some of the footage. A key feature is a chrome strip, or possible light bar, that connects to the headlight daytime running lights, a motif Lincoln debuted on its Star concept last year.
The interior will also receive various tweaks, including a larger infotainment screen that now spans the width of the center stack. The controls at the bottom of the center stack and center console have also been redesigned and now appear larger, particularly for push-button gear selection.
2024 Lincoln Aviator facelift spy footage – Copyright: Baldauf
2024 Lincoln Aviator facelift spy footage – Copyright: Baldauf
The prototype also has some makeshift cameras mounted on the front doors, as well as new sensors that can be seen in the front fascia. These features may be used to test a more advanced version of Lincoln’s ActiveGlide driver assistance feature.
It’s likely that some of the technology debuting in the updated Aviator will carry over to the SUV’s Ford cousin, the Explorer. Ford has yet to mention any updates to its Explorer, although the version unique to the Chinese market received a major update last year.
It’s not clear what changes are envisaged for the Aviator’s powertrains, although more power or improved efficiency are possible. Most versions come with a 3.0-liter, twin-turbocharged V6 that produces 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque. The Aviator grand touring plug-in hybrid combines an electric motor with the V-6 for a combined 494 hp and 630 lb-ft.
Electric versions of both the Aviator and Explorer are also in the works. They will use a new dedicated EV platform that Ford announced in 2021 and is expected to arrive for the 2025 model year. They’ll likely also feature unique styling treatments to further differentiate them from their gas-powered counterparts.