Aviator or Navigator: Which Three-Row Lincoln SUV Fits Your South Shore Family
July 29 2026,
When a family in Brossard or Greater Montréal outgrows their current vehicle, choosing a three-row SUV rarely comes down to brand alone. It comes down to real space, seating configuration, and what happens once the suitcases, sports bags, and stroller are loaded in the back.
Lincoln offers two distinct three-row SUVs: the midsize Aviator and the full-size Navigator. Both come with all-wheel drive and an interior built around comfort, but they serve different needs. This guide compares the two on practical criteria to help South Shore families narrow down which one fits their day-to-day life.
At a Glance: Aviator vs. Navigator
|
Feature |
Aviator |
Navigator |
|---|---|---|
|
Standard powertrain |
3.0L twin-turbo V6 |
3.5L twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 |
|
Horsepower |
400 hp |
440 hp |
|
Torque |
415 lb-ft |
510 lb-ft |
|
Overall length |
About 5.07 m (199.7 in.) |
About 5.33 m (210 in.) |
|
Cargo space behind the 3rd row |
About 543 L |
About 612 L |
|
Towing capacity (with appropriate package) |
2,268 kg (5,000 lb.) |
3,946 kg (8,700 lb.) |
|
Main display |
13.2-in. touchscreen with Lincoln Digital Experience |
48-in. panoramic display with 11.1-in. touchscreen |
Space and Seating Configuration
The first question worth asking is simple: how many people ride regularly, and how often does the third row actually get used?
- Aviator: seats seven as standard, with optional second-row captain's chairs available for easier access to the third row.
- Navigator: seats up to eight and offers optional second-row Power Tailored seats with heating, ventilation, and massage, along with power-assisted access to the third row.
- Both models offer similar front-row legroom, but the Navigator gains an edge in second- and third-row head and shoulder room thanks to its larger footprint.
- For families who use the third row occasionally, the Aviator is plenty. For those who regularly seat teenagers or adults back there, the Navigator offers more breathing room.
Cargo and Everyday Versatility
Cargo space is often the deciding factor, especially for families juggling sports equipment, groceries, and weekend bags.
With the third row up, the Aviator offers about 543 litres of space behind it, enough for gym bags or a folded stroller. The Navigator provides about 612 litres in the same configuration, a gap that becomes more noticeable once all three rows are occupied and luggage room gets tight.
The Navigator also adds the standard Split Gate, a two-way liftgate: the upper portion lifts like a traditional liftgate, while the bottom quarter folds down like a conventional tailgate. This setup makes loading heavier items easier and helps keep loose gear from sliding out during loading. The Aviator keeps a conventional liftgate, simple and effective for everyday use.
On towing, the gap is wider still: the Aviator can pull up to 2,268 kg with the Class III Trailer Tow Package, while the Navigator reaches 3,946 kg with its heavy-duty trailer tow package. For a family that occasionally tows a small utility trailer, the Aviator covers the need. For those planning to tow a heavier trailer or boat to a cottage in the Laurentians or Eastern Townships, the Navigator becomes the more practical choice.
Which Model Fits You?
The choice between the two mostly comes down to three things: the size of vehicle you're comfortable manoeuvring and parking around Brossard or Greater Montréal, how often the third row gets used, and your actual towing needs.
A family of four or five who uses the third row occasionally, for the odd outing or extra passengers, will find the Aviator an easier size to live with day to day, without giving up power or comfort. A larger family who regularly fills all three rows or tows equipment often will get more value from the Navigator's added space and capacity.
Test Drive the Aviator or Navigator in Brossard
Spec sheets give a solid starting point for comparison, but nothing replaces a test drive to judge the space, driving position, and seat comfort in person. Our team at Montmorency Lincoln in Brossard can help you compare the Aviator and Navigator side by side based on your family's specific needs. Book your test drive today at our South Shore dealership.
