The 2021 Lincoln Aviator RWD with the 3.0L V6 gets 21 MPG combined, a compromise that buyers in this segment accept. This isn’t just a vehicle for saving gas; it’s a statement of style, comfort, and capability. The Aviator appeals to drivers who want a luxurious and spacious experience, and while fuel efficiency is a consideration, it’s not the most important factor in their purchase. Often, these are families who need three rows of seating, or individuals who regularly transport clients or colleagues and value a premium passenger experience.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates offer a breakdown of fuel consumption: 18 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go traffic, where the Aviator’s weight and the engine’s need to overcome inertia use more fuel. The 26 MPG highway rating shows the engine’s ability to cruise efficiently at sustained speeds. The Aviator’s 10-speed automatic transmission helps keep the engine in its optimal power band whether accelerating onto the freeway or maintaining a steady pace.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2021 Lincoln Aviator RWD is $2,100. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using national average fuel prices. It’s a useful benchmark for budgeting, but actual fuel costs can vary based on individual driving habits, local fuel prices, and the ratio of city to highway miles driven.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, several factors can influence the fuel economy you’ll experience. Aggressive driving, frequent hard acceleration, and carrying heavy loads will all decrease mileage. Winter driving, with colder temperatures and the use of winter tires (with increased rolling resistance), can also negatively impact fuel efficiency. Remember that the 21 MPG rating is an average; some drivers will see better, others will see worse, depending on their driving patterns and the conditions they typically encounter.

How it compares

The Lincoln Aviator competes in a crowded segment of luxury SUVs, and fuel economy is always a consideration. The Acura MDX, for example, typically achieves around 22 MPG combined in its front-wheel-drive configuration, a slight edge over the Aviator. The BMW X5 sDrive40i manages about 23 MPG combined. These differences, while small, can add up over years of ownership. Choosing all-wheel drive on many of these models, including the Aviator, will typically reduce fuel economy by one or two MPG. For details on other vehicles in the Lincoln lineup, see all Lincoln fuel economy data. You can also look at AVIATOR MPG across all years to see how other model years compare.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration can make a significant difference. Avoid stomping on the accelerator from a standstill. The Aviator’s 3.0L V6 delivers plenty of power when needed, but using it carefully will conserve fuel. Anticipating traffic flow and maintaining a steady speed are also important for maximizing fuel economy.

Tire pressure is another often-overlooked factor. Ensure your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure, typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb or in the owner’s manual. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, which means the engine has to work harder to maintain speed, and that burns more fuel. Regular tire pressure checks can help.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo in the Aviator not only reduces available storage space, but puts a strain on the engine. Remove items you don’t need to haul around on a daily basis. Every extra hundred pounds onboard impacts gas mileage, particularly in city driving.

Plan trips wisely. Combine errands into a single trip to minimize cold starts. Cold engines are less efficient and consume more fuel until they reach operating temperature. A single extended trip is often more fuel-efficient than multiple short trips, even if the total mileage is the same, because the engine can maintain its ideal state of combustion longer.