Review: 2022 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring AWD Plug in Hybrid

The 2022 Lincoln Aviator Plug-In Hybrid has just about everything you may need and possibly want in a SUV. Typically, I would look at Lincoln SUV’s or sedans and think of retired people driving these vehicles. But that all changed when I was able to drive the Aviator Grand Touring AWD Hybrid for a week. Now this isn’t to say that it performs like a sporty SUV, but it does have a kick to it that you will enjoy and if you can envision the SUV with 22inch black wheels, maybe add 10% window tint to the back windows, I think you might be impressed.

Engine/Transmission

The 2022 Aviator Grand Touring has a twin turbocharged 3.0L V6. It is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and it can produce 494hp and 630lb-ft torque. 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) is done in about 6 seconds, so definitely slower than expected and that one big factor is due to its weight. Since this Aviator Grand Touring is a Hybrid, it can drive on electricity alone for about 31km (19 miles). This of course is dependant on your driving style, climate control usage, outside temperatures, etc. The electric motor provides about 100hp from a 13.6 kWh battery. If you plan on using a level 2 charger, it will take about 3 hours to fully charge. If you are charging from a home wall outlet, then expect to leave it charging all night as it may take over 10 hours to fully charge. The Aviator Grand Touring is rated for 4.2L/100km (56 MPG) on electricity and gasoline and is rated for 10.3L/100km (22.8 MPG) just on gasoline. During my time I averaged 10.5L/100km (22.4 MPG) just on gasoline. Now for those that may not fully understand how the different modes work, I will simplify. Preserve mode only uses the engine and charges the battery when slowing down or braking. Pure EV uses only the battery while Conserve and Normal use the battery first and then switch to the engine when the battery is depleted.

Handling/Performance

The 2022 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring is the definition of a smooth ride in my opinion. The smoothness is thanks to the air suspension and the adaptive dampers. This makes going over bumps feel like as though you’re floating. One thing I did notice, however, was that the transition from electricity to gasoline was not as smooth as I would have expected. Now this may also be one of the things one must learn when driving to get the most out of the experience. Learning to brake properly to recharge and accelerate smoothly play a big role on how the Grand Touring will perform. While on pure electricity, it drives super smooth, as you would expect from an EV car. It is the same while on gasoline only. Steering is soft so it is very comfortable but don’t expect this Aviator Grand Touring to react like a sporty SUV. Braking is also on point as it is responsive to the touch.

Comfort

When it comes to how comfortable it is, I must say it ticks a lot of boxes for me; at least for the front seats that is. It is comfortable enough to sit for long periods of times. The seats are unique as they are very different compared to other comparable SUV’s. It has more than enough ways to adjust your seat. You do have to play around with the seat adjustments to find you best fit. The Grand Touring has massaging seats for the driver and front passenger seats. The second row however was not as comfortable as I found them to be too firm. The third row was not comfortable at all and don’t want to be sitting there for long. Space however was decent. I was able to fit comfortably in both rows so I would say it is enough space for average height individuals. The amount of cargo space is good for a few small bags with the 3^rd row seats up. The space of course increases with 3^rd row down and greater with 2^nd row down. If you must carry more luggage, then rooftop cargo boxes are always an option and will solve your cargo issues.

Interior

The Aviator Grand Touring is equipped with a 10.1” LCD Touchscreen and a 12.3” driver display. It has a mix of touchscreen and physical buttons. It has premium leather seats, and it comes equipped with 2^nd row tip and slide seats for easy access to the 3^rd row. It also has ambient lighting, separate climate control for the 2^nd row, a lot of leather everywhere and soft to touch materials used throughout the cabin which overall gives it that premium feel. The only thing missing would be a tray table for when you feel like eating inside the SUV. That is how great it feels to be inside the Grand Touring.

Exterior

As for looks, it is no different than any of the other comparable SUVs. It has that boxy look which I like. It is equipped with 22in wheels for this model as it is equipped with adaptive suspension. The front grille along with the exhaust dual tips makes the Grand Touring look better in my opinion. Overall, a great look both inside and out.

Pros/Cons

If you are looking for a luxury SUV that is fully equipped, then this just might be it. Starting price is $85,300 CAD ($69,190 USD) and as equipped it is $101,130 CAD ($81,480 USD). Now I know it’s now a 6-figure car, but it is equipped with just about everything you may need in a SUV. If you decide to opt for a BMW or Mercedes, you will be paying a lot more if equipped as this Grand Touring. It is a very spacious SUV, smooth handling and responsive when cruising. The Plug in Hybrid is a great option as you can drive alone on electricity for quick trips to run errands or work if it is within a couple minutes’ drive. However, there are other great 3^rd row SUVs that you may consider and for a lower price. Of course, it won’t be as fully equipped but if you are willing to compromise some features, then this might not be an option. Also, more EV range would be ideal especially if you drive mostly in the city.