2004 Lincoln Aviator Review

Specifications

Same Name, Whole New Bag of Tricks

The current Aviator isnt exactly Lincolns top seller, surprising those outside of Ford Motor Companys Dearborn, Michigan head office as well as many automotive journalists that predicted nothing but success for the midsize luxury SUV.

Just why the Ford Explorer-based SUV has been snubbed by consumers might have more to do with the success the domestic premium nameplate is experiencing with its full-size Navigator, with buyers generally preferring larger sport utilities. In Canada the Aviator has done better, prompting the division to keep it in its 2004 lineup despite it being dropped here at home.

Following Lincolns pattern of basing its cars and SUVs on Ford-derived architecture, the brand will release an all-new Aviator for the 2005 model year. Compared to the current Aviator-Explorer duo, it will be harder to see the similarities to the 2005 Ford Freestar that donates its basic architecture. This bodes well for performance potential, as the Freestar is based on the sensational Volvo P2 platform that underpins the award-winning XC90 .

“The next-generation Aviator is a new kind of Lincoln; its our first-ever, car-based SUV,” stated Phil Martens, Ford Motor Company group vice president, Product Creation.

That means Lincoln should fair better against such best-in-premium-class sellers as the Lexus RX 330 and BMW X5, due to better on-road handling and a more comfortable ride. In concept form it gets massive 21-inch diameter cast and polished aluminum wheels, complete with the Lincoln star at hub position. Of course production models will receive more conservative rims, but much of the Aviator concept is expected to make it to local showrooms relatively unchanged. According to the press release, “this sneak peek strongly suggests the direction that the exterior design will take moving forward.”

This should be good news to those who appreciate its classic Lincoln styling details. Its bright metal molding that forms at the base of the front fascia and follows the front fenders up and over the arcing roofline and down the vehicles backside is vaguely reminiscent of the 61 Continental - a styling cue expected to be featured throughout the majority of future Lincolns.

The new concept, which is more of a “teaser vehicle” or prototype of a future model according to the Lincoln press material, features a wide chrome egg-crate grille that integrates the headlights at opposing sides, also inspired by past Lincolns. From its front three-quarter view I cant help thinking about the old AMC Eagle 4×4 wagon, one of the first crossovers. It does, however, take on a shape thats all its own from every other angle mind you.

The hearse-like C-pillars are extremely thick, which is probably not the best for rearward visibility but unique in the crossover category just the same. A horizontal “light-bar” spans the entire width of the large glass liftgate, a very American design cue that is executed effectively on this car without looking dated. Just under the liftgate is a flat-folding tailgate, just like station wagons of yore. The gorgeous Behr hardwood floor with bright aluminum strips that graces the cargo floor is a nice touch that most definitely wont be making production. Hopefully its 30 cubic feet of storage space will.

The future Aviator features a full-length glass roof, hardly pulled from the past, shedding light on a wonderfully opulent interior. The dash is vaguely reminiscent of the current model, with its tall center stack in brushed aluminum trim. The same metal covers other key surfaces, with stunning vertical vents unlike anything currently in production.

The squared off theme continues over to the stunning gauge package, retrospective in design but looking more like a classic wristwatch, maybe a Cartier Tank Americaine, Bvlgari Rettangolo, Patek Philippe Rectangular, TAG Heuer Monaco, or the like, rather than an instrument panel. Lincoln tries something different with its requisite wood trim too, featuring it at the lower edge of the dash rather than the usual placement across the upper middle. The result is original and effective.

The leather clad seats are wonderfully modern too, separated by a large, solid looking console. But as nice as they are, Id prefer the middle row of seats hands down. Not only is the largest set of plasma screens Ive ever seen integrated into both front seatbacks, the rear center console deploys first-class folding lap tables with leather-trimmed pads, just like those in the front half of an airliner. Personal climate and navigation controls are also integrated.

The prototypes four reclining chairs include integrated leg rests, optimizing comfort. Just below, the literal floorboards are beautiful albeit hardly practical, matching the wood trim set into in the lower seatbacks. If Lincoln manages to bring this concept to production with its features and perceived quality in place, it will rival the Maybach 62 for rear accommodations, and probably have to be priced as extravagantly.

“This dramatic one-and-a-half-box design features a modern, efficient package where occupants are accommodated in a versatile and generously spacious lounge-like interior,” said David Woodhouse, chief designer. “The vehicle is designed to make you feel as though youve purchased a first-class ticket on a most exclusive airliner.”

Of course the crossover features a multifunction information display for ancillary controls, but this one also includes internet access - its about time an automaker considers making use of wireless technology for something so practical.

Not quite as practical but just as appreciated will be the inclusion of Lincolns exclusive THX-certified audio system. Ive tried it in the LS and its especially impressive. In the Aviator concept 9-speakers are installed, plus a handy mute button. The system is also speed sensitive, or more accurately makes volume adjustments based on surrounding noise.

Other premium features include rain-sensing wipers, self-leveling headlamps, power and heated outside mirrors, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a tilt and telescopic steering wheel, dual climate control with pollen filtration, and a global vehicle theft location system.

On road performance is important in this category, and especially so for Lincoln as domestic rivals Cadillac and Chrysler have delivered solid efforts in their respective SRX and Pacifica. Lincoln is saying that its production Aviator will combine on- and off-road capabilities, but doesnt go so far as to admit it has included a low gear for serious 4×4 duties. Most likely it wont, but there is a chance it will feature an electronic low gear, a feature showing up more and more in recent years. Lincoln does say the crossover offers “generous ground clearance,” which at least shows that delivering something more than a glorified station wagon is part of the luxury divisions plans.

Lincoln includes a 6-speed automatic transmission, most likely directing power from both V6 and V8 powerplants, but nothing is divulged regarding engine choices.

Both ride and handling should be impressive, due to a rear multi-link suspension and adjustable dampers up front. The Aviator concepts high-strength steel, monocoque construction should make for a stiff structure, also aiding driving dynamics while improving crash protection.

Personally, I like this crossover SUV. Its styling is at least as unique and attractive as Cadillacs SRX, while its interior looks better. And if it is produced with as much care and attention to detail as Lincolns current crop of SUVs the Aviator will be an upgrade over the Cadillac as well. Unfortunately the cool stuff inside is the conceptual part of this concept, and most likely wont make it to production. Just the same this car-based Aviator will no doubt do much better than its namesake when it comes to sales.