The standard model has more torque.
The new Lincoln Aviator has a lot to love. The elegant SUV exploded onto the scene at the 2018 Los Angeles Auto Show in November. Its sophisticated exterior and elegant interior caught our attention. After nine months of waiting, Brandon Turkus, our man, is now able to drive the vehicle. But, before he even set foot in the Aviator, he was met with a pleasant surprise. Lincoln has increased the SUV’s power output, which is a significant improvement for this hybrid, as you can see from the headline.
The Aviator was unveiled by Lincoln in Grand Touring form. It boasted 450 horsepower (336kilowatts). It also came with an optional hybrid powertrain that combines the 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 and electric power. Although technically it was expected to reach that number, all of the certification and testing have shown that Lincoln was more cautious than expected. The Aviator has a combined power output of 494 horsepower (368 kW) and is one of the most powerful luxury SUVs in its class.
The hybrid Aviator is not the only one to get a power boost. Standard versions also have the twin-turbo six pot that produces 400 hp (298kw) by itself. This figure is unchanged, but the torque rating of 415 pounds-feet (563 Newton meters) has slightly increased from the estimate of 400 lbft (542Nm) we were given in November.
What does this all mean for the Aviator? These figures, estimates and all, were not available at the SUV’s LA debut. The hybrid has nearly 500 horsepower and could be a real stoplight sleeper that can embarrass muscular performance cars. The Aviator is currently being tested at a first-drive event. We can’t wait for all the details about this Lincoln hot rod. You can expect the Motor1.com feature to be available soon.