Hey guys! Let's dive deep into the 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring, the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version of Lincoln's popular mid-size luxury SUV. If you're in the market for a stylish, spacious, and electrified family hauler, the Aviator PHEV might just be the ticket. But before you rush to the dealership, let's break down everything you need to know.

What's New for 2023?

For the 2023 model year, the Lincoln Aviator PHEV doesn't see any major overhauls, but it continues to offer a compelling package of luxury, performance, and efficiency. The Aviator received a refresh in 2020, so the 2023 model carries over most of those updates, focusing on refining the existing features and technology. This means you're still getting the same sleek design, comfortable interior, and advanced driver-assistance systems that made the Aviator a hit. Key highlights remain the spacious three-row seating, the powerful plug-in hybrid powertrain, and the high-end cabin appointments. This year's model primarily emphasizes software enhancements and minor trim adjustments to keep the Aviator competitive in the ever-evolving luxury SUV segment.

The updates in 2023 are subtle but worthwhile. Lincoln has focused on improving the infotainment system's responsiveness and user interface, addressing some of the feedback from previous model years. The voice recognition system has also been refined, making it more accurate and intuitive to use. Additionally, there are new color options and interior trim choices available, allowing buyers to further personalize their Aviator to their liking. The 2023 Aviator PHEV continues to be a strong contender, offering a luxurious and efficient driving experience with these thoughtful improvements. This makes it a smart choice for those looking to balance environmental responsibility with the opulence and comfort expected from a luxury SUV.

Performance and Powertrain

Under the hood of the 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring, you'll find a potent combination: a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine paired with an electric motor. This dynamic duo delivers a combined output of 494 horsepower and a whopping 630 lb-ft of torque! That's enough grunt to get this sizable SUV moving with serious authority. The electric motor is powered by a 13.6-kWh battery pack, providing an EPA-estimated all-electric range of around 21 miles. For many, this is enough for daily commutes or errands without burning any gasoline. When the battery is depleted, the Aviator PHEV seamlessly switches to hybrid mode, using both the engine and motor to maximize fuel efficiency. The transition is smooth and virtually unnoticeable, ensuring a refined driving experience. The 10-speed automatic transmission is also a standout, offering quick and precise shifts that contribute to both performance and fuel economy. Whether you're accelerating onto the highway or cruising around town, the Aviator PHEV provides a confident and comfortable ride.

One of the key advantages of the Aviator PHEV is its ability to operate in different driving modes, allowing you to tailor the performance to your preferences. In Pure EV mode, the vehicle relies solely on electric power, providing a silent and emission-free driving experience. Hybrid mode balances the use of the engine and motor for optimal fuel efficiency, while Preserve EV mode uses the engine to recharge the battery while driving, ensuring you have electric power available when you need it. The Aviator PHEV also features a standard all-wheel-drive system, providing enhanced traction and stability in various weather conditions. The adaptive suspension further enhances the ride quality, adjusting to road conditions in real-time to deliver a smooth and controlled driving experience. With its powerful powertrain, versatile driving modes, and advanced suspension, the 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring offers a compelling blend of performance and efficiency that sets it apart in the luxury SUV segment.

Interior and Technology

Stepping inside the 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring is like entering a sanctuary of comfort and technology. The cabin is beautifully appointed with high-quality materials, including supple leather upholstery, genuine wood trim, and elegant metallic accents. The seats are incredibly comfortable, offering ample support and cushioning for long journeys. The Aviator PHEV comes standard with three rows of seating, providing ample space for up to seven passengers. Even the third-row seats are reasonably spacious, making them suitable for adults on shorter trips. The attention to detail is evident throughout the cabin, from the meticulously stitched leather to the thoughtfully designed controls. The layout is intuitive and user-friendly, with all the essential functions easily accessible.

On the technology front, the 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring is packed with features to enhance your driving experience. The centerpiece of the dashboard is a large 10.1-inch touchscreen display, which houses the SYNC 3 infotainment system. This system is responsive, intuitive, and offers seamless smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Aviator PHEV also comes standard with a premium Revel audio system, delivering crystal-clear sound throughout the cabin. Other notable features include a wireless charging pad, a head-up display, and a 360-degree camera system. The advanced driver-assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring, provide an extra layer of safety and convenience. The Aviator PHEV also offers a unique feature called "Phone As A Key," which allows you to use your smartphone to unlock, start, and drive the vehicle. With its luxurious interior, advanced technology, and thoughtful features, the 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring provides a truly exceptional driving experience.

Fuel Economy and Range

Okay, let's talk fuel economy. The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring, being a plug-in hybrid, offers a unique blend of efficiency and performance. The EPA estimates the Aviator PHEV gets around 56 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) when running on both electric and gasoline power. When the battery is depleted and the vehicle operates solely on gasoline, the fuel economy drops to around 23 MPG combined (21 city/28 highway). The all-electric range is estimated at 21 miles, which is sufficient for many daily commutes and errands. Of course, your actual fuel economy and range will vary depending on your driving habits, road conditions, and the use of climate control features. However, the Aviator PHEV offers a significant improvement in fuel efficiency compared to traditional gasoline-powered SUVs.

One of the key advantages of a plug-in hybrid is the ability to recharge the battery at home, which can significantly reduce your fuel costs. The Aviator PHEV can be fully recharged in around 3-4 hours using a 240-volt Level 2 charger. A standard 120-volt household outlet can also be used, but it will take significantly longer to recharge the battery. By regularly charging the battery, you can maximize the use of electric power and minimize your reliance on gasoline. The Aviator PHEV also features regenerative braking, which captures energy during deceleration and uses it to recharge the battery, further improving fuel efficiency. With its combination of electric and gasoline power, the 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring offers a compelling balance of efficiency and performance, making it an attractive option for environmentally conscious buyers.

Pricing and Trims

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring comes in a single trim level, which is well-equipped with a host of standard features. The starting price for the Aviator PHEV is around $70,000, which is higher than the base price of the gasoline-powered Aviator. However, the PHEV version offers a significant improvement in fuel efficiency and performance, which may justify the higher price for some buyers. The Aviator PHEV also qualifies for federal tax credits and other incentives, which can further reduce the overall cost of ownership.

While there's only one trim level, you can customize your Aviator PHEV with a range of optional packages and features. These include the Technology Package, which adds features such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist; the Luxury Package, which adds premium leather upholstery and other upscale amenities; and the Elements Package, which adds heated and ventilated front seats. You can also choose from a variety of exterior colors and interior trim options to personalize your Aviator PHEV to your liking. It's worth noting that the Aviator PHEV is positioned as a premium offering in the Lincoln lineup, so it comes with a higher price tag compared to other mid-size SUVs. However, its combination of luxury, performance, and efficiency makes it a compelling option for those looking for a well-rounded and environmentally friendly vehicle.

Pros and Cons

Alright, let's break down the good and the not-so-good of the 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring.

Pros:

• Powerful and refined powertrain: The combination of the twin-turbo V6 and electric motor delivers impressive performance and a smooth driving experience.
• Luxurious and comfortable interior: The cabin is beautifully appointed with high-quality materials and offers ample space for passengers and cargo.
• Decent all-electric range: The 21-mile electric range is sufficient for many daily commutes and errands.
• Advanced technology features: The Aviator PHEV is packed with features to enhance your driving experience, including a large touchscreen display, a premium audio system, and advanced driver-assistance systems.
• Stylish design: The Aviator PHEV boasts a sleek and modern exterior design that stands out from the crowd.

Cons:

• Higher price tag: The Aviator PHEV is more expensive than the gasoline-powered Aviator and other mid-size SUVs.
• Fuel economy can vary: The fuel economy can drop significantly when the battery is depleted and the vehicle operates solely on gasoline.
• Only one trim level: The Aviator PHEV is only available in a single trim level, which may limit customization options for some buyers.
• Infotainment system could be better: While the SYNC 3 system is generally user-friendly, it could be more responsive and feature-rich.
• Charging time: It can take several hours to fully recharge the battery using a standard household outlet.

The Verdict

So, what's the final word on the 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring? Overall, it's a compelling and luxurious plug-in hybrid SUV that offers a unique blend of performance, efficiency, and style. It's not the cheapest option in its class, but it's well-equipped with a host of standard features and offers a significant improvement in fuel economy compared to traditional gasoline-powered SUVs. If you're looking for a spacious, comfortable, and environmentally friendly family hauler, the Aviator PHEV is definitely worth considering. Just be sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully and compare it to other plug-in hybrid SUVs in its class before making a final decision. But, if you value luxury, performance, and a touch of green, the Aviator PHEV might just be your perfect ride!