Lincoln’s Aviator SUV will return to replace the MKT, Navigator will get aluminum body

By Miles Branman June 8, 2015

The Lincoln of the early- to mid-2000s didn’t pump out many “winner” models, and the Aviator SUV was no exception. Produced from 2002 to 2005, the Aviator was based on a Ford Explorer, and besides alternative body panels and some extra leather in the cabin, it was just a more expensive Ford Explorer.

Lincoln is no longer the same automaker, with attractive new models like the MKC crossover and plans for more luxurious and stylish vehicles down the road. In an effort to scrub off the past, Lincoln will reportedly introduce a new Aviator SUV. This news is backed up by the fact that Lincoln just filed a patent for the Aviator nameplate, which it had previously let go.

The new Aviator, like its predecessor, would be based on the Ford Explorer, but unlike before, it’s expected to be almost a completely different vehicle inside and out. Obviously the chassis and Sync 3 infotainment system will carry over, but expect a far more luxurious cabin, even than the new Ford Explorer Platinum, and an exterior that matches styling cues from recent Lincoln models.

The new Aviator won’t just be an add-on model, either, as Lincoln plans to replace the MKT crossover with the new SUV. Ford also won’t make a new generation of the Flex, which shares its platform with the MKT.

If you’re wondering where the “Aviator” name fits in with Lincoln’s MK-naming scheme, don’t be confused. Ford Executive Vice President Joe Hinrichs hinted that Lincoln might strip the MK nameplates to instead utilize Lincoln’s heritage. Therefore, look for full vehicle names to replace the letters going forward.

Lincoln hasn’t confirmed which “two new vehicles” the U.S. automaker would add to its lineup, but the Aviator will almost certainly be one of them.

In related news, the next-generation Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator will apparently adopt aluminum bodies like the 2015 F-150 to shed weight and improve fuel economy. Both SUVs are also expected to gain 10-speed automatic transmissions.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Miles Branman doesn't need sustenance; he needs cars. While the gearhead gene wasn't strong in his own family, Miles…

Cars

Mercedes-Benz EQG: range, price, release date, and more

Concept image of the larger electric G-Wagon

The G-Class is going electric. We already knew that Mercedes-Benz was working on an electric, small-size G-Wagon, but it looks like the company is also working on a larger G-Class SUV, in the form of the EQG. In fact, Mercedes has gone as far as to show off a concept version of the off-roader.

While there's much we don't know about what will become the production model of the EQG, Mercedes has also shared a lot about it. Curious about whether the Mercedes-Benz EQG could be the EV for you? Here's everything we know so far.
Design
Fear not -- the EQG will retain many of the design aspects of the G-Class that you already know and love but with a modern face-lift. The EQG will keep the boxy design that gives the G-Class a classic look but with some additional modern styling, at least if the concept version is anything to go by.

Cars

Rivian R2 vs. Kia EV9: battle of affordable electric SUVs

Kia EV9 GT-Line Three Quarters

The long-awaited Rivian R2 has finally been announced, and it's an excellent option for those who want an electric SUV that doesn't completely break the bank. Sure, the R2 isn't cheap -- but it's a whole lot cheaper than most other EVs out there, especially when it comes to SUVs. But Rivian isn't the only company trying to tackle the problem of the budget electric SUV. The Kia EV9 is finally available, and it too offers a modern design and a range of helpful features.

Given the fact that the Rivian R2 and Kia EV9 are two electric SUVs in a similar price range, you might be wondering which is better for your needs. That's why we put the Rivian R2 and the Kia EV9 head-to-head.
Design
Both the Rivian R2 and the Kia EV9 are actual SUVs -- not crossovers pretending to be SUVs, like plenty of other EVs out there. The two vehicles offer big, boxy designs and plenty of interior space, making them excellent options for families or those who need that extra storage.

Cars

Rivian R2 vs R1S: How will Rivian’s cheaper SUV compare?

The front three-quarter view of a 2022 Rivian against a rocky backdrop.

Rivian has finally unveiled the R2, its long-awaited attempt at a more affordable electric SUV. The new vehicle may not be available just yet, but fans of Rivian's design aesthetics and feature set are already looking forward to being able to order the new car. The R2 is targeted at being a more affordable take on the electric SUV and will sit alongside the flagship-tier R1S.

Let's get this out of the way right now: The R1S is most likely going to be a better vehicle than the R2. Rivian isn't replacing the R1S with the R2 — it's releasing the R2 as a more affordable alternative, and there will be some compromises when buying the R2 over the R1S.