Lincoln Aviator Vs. Navigator: Which SUV Is Right for You?
Luxury comes in many forms , which is why a Lincoln Aviator vs. Navigator comparison is so essential. These two SUVs – one midsize and the other full-size – hold a myriad of differences that can be influential in your investment decision. While both models are extremely comfortable and luxurious, the Aviator is the more accessible option for smaller families. Meanwhile, the Navigator brings the size and high-end features required to turn family road trips with up to eight passengers into truly unique experiences.
Ready to see more? Our team at Fiesta Lincoln is here to list the differences between these incredible SUVs. Let's explore the highlights before you visit our showroom.
Lincoln Aviator vs. Navigator At a Glance
- Both models offer a truly notable exterior and interior, with the Aviator offering a more narrow and aerodynamic look while the Navigator is larger and blockier.
- Size is the most relevant difference, with the Aviator providing less cargo space and third-row legroom than the Navigator.
- While the Aviator has extraordinary engine power, the 3.5-liter twin-turbo V-6 of the Navigator creates the superior horsepower.
- Both models offer extraordinary standard features, such as the 13.2-inch LCD screen, though Navigator drivers receive additional amenities perfect for the full-size experience.
- See the differences yourself at Fiesta Lincoln.
Summary
Generally, while the Aviator is an incredibly luxurious midsize SUV, the Navigator is the more premium choice. The full-size option offers additional engine power, towing capacity, cargo space, and high-end standard features. However, smaller families may prefer the Aviator for its easier maneuverability, fantastic features for its size category, and slightly better MPG ratings.
Lincoln Navigator vs. Lincoln Aviator Design: Interior & Exterior
The first part of our Lincoln Aviator vs. Navigator comparison is appearance, perhaps the most obvious difference between the two models. The 2026 Lincoln Aviator is built around dependable, versatile midsize performance. It has a sleeker shape than its larger sibling, with curved headlights and a pronounced, circular grille. As you climb inside, you notice a similar thought process going into the cabin. A central console provides simple storage, while the dashboard is straightforward and focused on your impressive screen space.
The Navigator shares many qualities of its midsize equivalent, though the exterior is distinct. While both models are clearly Lincoln-inspired by their grille and accents, the Navigator adopts a boxier philosophy, making it look larger and more durable on the surface. Its grille is less circular, the headlights are tighter and more focused, and its lower grille is more pronounced. The Lincoln Navigator interior also feels larger, prioritizing the massive 48-inch configurable display across the back of the dashboard.
Lincoln Aviator vs. Navigator Size
The larger body of the Navigator isn't just for show; this vehicle is a massive, full-size SUV, perfect for the family who needs a bit more space. At up to 210 inches in length (or 221.9 inches with the Navigator L configuration), you access up to 172.1 cubic feet of passenger volume. That includes 43.5 inches of maximum legroom in the third row – the same as the front row – and can hold 107 cubic feet of cargo capacity (or 121.6 cubic feet with the Navigator L).
The Aviator isn't too far behind, though. At 199.7 inches, the Aviator is fairly large for a midsize three-row SUV. It boasts 43 inches of front-row legroom, 39 inches of second-row legroom, and 29.2 inches of third-row legroom. Notably, it actually has more overall headroom than the Navigator, giving your passengers 140.6 cubic feet of interior volume – incredible for a midsize SUV.
| Lincoln Aviator | Lincoln Navigator | |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Category | Midsize Luxury SUV | Full-Size Luxury SUV |
| Engine | 3.0L twin-turbo V-6 | 3.5L twin-turbo V-6 |
| Horsepower | 400 | 440 |
| Torque | 415 lb-ft | 510 lb-ft |
| EPA-Est. MPG (City / Hwy / Cmb) | 18 / 25 / 211 | 15 / 22 / 172 |
| Max Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs3 | 8,700 lbs3 |
| Drivetrain | RWD, AWD avail | AWD |
| Wheel Sizes | 20-in, 21-in, 22-in | 22-in, 24-in |
| Max Seating Capacity | 7 | 8 |
| Length | 199.7 in | 210 in (221.9 in w/ Navigator L) |
| Width (incl. mirrors) | 89.9 in | 94.6 in |
| Height | 69.2 in | 78 in |
| Cargo Volume (Min / Max) | 16.5 / 75.9 cu ft |
|
| Headroom (1st / 2nd / 3rd) | 40.2 / 38.4 / 36.9 in | 38.3 / 37.9 / 37.4 in |
| Legroom (1st / 2nd / 3rd) | 43 / 39 / 29.2 in | 43.5 / 42 / 43.5 in |
| Passenger Volume | 140.6 cu ft | 172.1 cu ft |
| Standard Feature Highlights |
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Lincoln Aviator vs. Lincoln Navigator Specs: Powertrain & Engine
Stepping outside the cabin, we return to check under the hood of the car. The Aviator is first, with a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-6. It produces 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque – snappy and responsive, perfect for a family vehicle. This engine achieves a 5,000-pound tow rating,3 a comfortable amount for family activities like canoeing, bringing your ATV to the dunes, or small fishing boats. With its standard RWD configuration, the Aviator reaches an EPA-estimated 18/25/21 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).1
The engine of the Navigator continues the pattern, being bigger and stronger. The 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 powertrain comes with AWD by default, which is excellent for handling. With 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque, the Navigator promises similarly responsive performance on the road. That standard AWD, higher-end performance, and more stable body style allow the Navigator to achieve a maximum towing capacity of 8,700 pounds3 with 22-inch wheels. However, the larger engine requires more gas to operate properly.
Lincoln Aviator vs. Lincoln Navigator Technology & Features
Outside of their premium-grade performances, both of these SUVs also provide diverse and enticing features. Take the Aviator, for example. A 13.2-inch LCD touchscreen welcomes you to the interior. Through this dynamic and intuitive station, you can access ambient interior lighting, Personal Profiles, and the rest of the Lincoln Digital Experience. Your second-row passengers have a smaller screen for audio and climate controls, ensuring the family has easy access to customization. You'll also be comfortable with a panoramic roof and front-row lumbar support.
However, if you instead choose the Navigator, a unique set of incredible luxuries awaits. While your central touchscreen is somewhat smaller than the Aviator, the full-size SUV compensates with a 48-inch configurable instrument cluster with personalized themes, turning your dashboard into a movie theater of sights. Your LED lighting is bright and beautiful, a step up from the quality within the Aviator. Speaking of a step up, the driver's seat is a 24-way, fully adjustable Perfect Position seat with automatic heating and ventilation, while the front-row passenger gets a 22-way seat.
Lincoln Navigator vs. Aviator Safety
Where the differences in comfort technologies and amenities are relatively significant, Lincoln safety technology is very similar between the two SUVs. The Lincoln Co-Pilot360â„¢ suite includes Adaptive Cruise Control with Traffic Jam Assist, 360-Degree Camera, a Front Sensing System, Evasive Steer Assist, and Reverse Brake Assist. Either SUV will give you an all-around view of your vehicle through dynamic, comprehensive sensor technology.
However, the Aviator actually has an edge in this category, thanks to its standard Lincoln Co-Pilot360â„¢ 2.1 (instead of the Lincoln Co-Pilot360â„¢ 2.0 for the Navigator) and amenities like Active Park Assist Plus. For stronger automation and a more helpful guide on the road, the Aviator is a standout consideration.
Lincoln Aviator vs. Navigator Driving Experience
When we group all these distinctive qualities, how does the ownership journey of these two SUVs feel? When you sit behind the wheel of the Aviator midsize SUV, you'll feel almost nimble. The tighter length, combined with adaptive suspension, allows you to take on turns and uneven road conditions with ease. The available all-wheel-drive system delivers even better handling, giving you unparalleled control of each wheel.
The Navigator, meanwhile, feels unstoppable. The extra curb weight, standard AWD, and adaptive suspension with CCD let you cruise down the road without any issue. You'll hardly feel potholes, loose debris, or maintenance hole covers as you move down the interstate or through the city.
How to Choose Between the Lincoln Aviator vs. Navigator
As you can see, both of these SUVs have distinct advantages that make them a great choice for your garage. So:
- You should pick the Lincoln Aviator if you don't necessarily need an expansive third row or extra cargo space. Instead, you want more access to safety features and an easier driving style offered by the midsize Lincoln model.
- You should pick the Lincoln Navigator if you are planning vacations and events with a large family that will need an expansive third row and over 100 cubic feet of cargo space.
See the Lincoln Aviator vs. Navigator Comparison at Fiesta Lincoln
At our Lincoln dealer in Mesa, AZ, you'll be able to see the difference between these two SUVs in person.
You can also compare these options to any of the other SUVs in our all-new Lincoln inventory, including the Nautilus and the Corsair.
So, schedule a test drive today. We promise you'll never forget the first time you drive a Lincoln model.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do Lincoln Aviator and Navigator maintenance costs compare?
According to RepairPal, Lincoln Aviator vehicles have lower maintenance costs than Lincoln Navigator SUVs. The average annual repair cost for the Aviator sits at $807 per year, which is lower than average for a luxury SUV.4 The Navigator has an estimated annual cost of $1,089,5 which is again lower than average for full-size SUVs but is slightly more expensive than the Aviator.
Which SUV is better for towing: the Lincoln Aviator or Navigator?
The Navigator, as a full-size SUV, has more towing capacity than the Lincoln Aviator. That doesn't mean the Aviator can't haul; it has a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. However, the Navigator is rated to tow between 8,400 and 8,700 pounds, depending on configuration.3 That's enough for small vehicles, some fishing boats, and even larger campers.
How easy is servicing the Lincoln Aviator vs. Navigator?
Generally, the Lincoln Aviator will be easier to service compared to the Navigator. That's due to the Aviator being a smaller SUV with fewer high-end technologies, making it somewhat easier to find replacement parts and access components. However, according to RepairPal, both models will be easier to service than many other luxury SUVs.4,5 For more information, please contact our team.
Which SUV is better for long trips, the Lincoln Aviator or Navigator?
While the Lincoln Aviator is more than capable for long trips, the Navigator provides additional cargo space, third-row legroom, and premium features. Both models have comfortable front-row seats, but the Navigator offers a 24-way driver seat and a 22-way passenger seat that the Aviator cannot replicate. It also has up to 107 cubic feet of cargo volume and 43.5 inches of third-row legroom.
1EPA-estimated 18/25 mpg for the model indicated. See fueleconomy.gov for fuel economy of other engine/transmission combinations. Actual mileage will vary. On plug-in hybrid models and electric models, fuel economy is stated in MPGe. MPGe is the EPA equivalent measure of gasoline fuel efficiency for electric mode operation.
2EPA-estimated 15/22 mpg for the model indicated. See fueleconomy.gov for fuel economy of other engine/transmission combinations. Actual mileage will vary. On plug-in hybrid models and electric models, fuel economy is stated in MPGe. MPGe is the EPA equivalent measure of gasoline fuel efficiency for electric mode operation.
3When properly equipped. Max towing varies based on cargo, vehicle configuration, accessories, and number of passengers.
4Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://repairpal.com/reliability/lincoln/aviator
5Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://repairpal.com/reliability/lincoln/navigator