The 2022 Lincoln Aviator AWD with the 3.0L twin-turbo V6 gets 20 MPG combined, a figure that likely won’t deter its target buyer. This isn’t a vehicle purchased for hyper-miling; it’s for those who prioritize a smooth, powerful driving experience and a luxurious cabin. While not class-leading, its fuel economy is an accepted consequence of its distinctive character.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Aviator AWD at 17 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the reality of stop-and-go traffic, where the Aviator’s weight and powerful engine work against it. The highway number, while decent, doesn’t put it ahead of the competition. It serves as a reminder that all-wheel drive and forced induction come with a fuel consumption penalty. Drivers who primarily commute in urban environments will likely see numbers closer to the 17 MPG mark, while those with longer freeway commutes will get closer to, or potentially exceed, the 24 MPG estimate. Remember that driving style plays a significant role in whether you achieve these figures. Aggressive acceleration and hard braking will impact your MPG negatively.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Lincoln Aviator AWD at $2,200. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s a useful benchmark for comparing running costs with other vehicles, but know that your actual expenses will vary depending on your driving habits, fuel prices in your area, and the type of fuel you use. Premium fuel is recommended for optimal performance, which will raise your annual fuel costs versus what the EPA estimates using regular fuel pricing.

Real-world expectations

Don’t expect to consistently achieve the EPA’s combined MPG in daily driving. Real-world fuel economy for the Aviator is heavily dependent on driving style, traffic conditions, and the terrain you’re driving on. If you’re regularly using the Aviator to its full potential – accelerating quickly, carrying passengers, or towing – you’ll likely see figures closer to the city MPG. On long highway trips, a more conservative driver can hit the 24 MPG mark. However, frequent use of the “Excite” drive mode, which remaps the throttle for quicker response, will almost certainly reduce your fuel economy. For those interested in even better gas mileage, check out the AVIATOR MPG across all years.

How it compares

The Lincoln Aviator lands in a competitive segment. The Acura MDX SH-AWD, for example, achieves 19/25 MPG city/highway. The BMW X5 xDrive40i manages 21/25 MPG, slightly better than the Aviator. The Volvo XC90 B6 AWD is rated at 20/26 MPG. These small differences can add up over time, but the Lincoln buyer is often prioritizing other factors; a softer ride, a more traditionally luxurious interior design, and brand loyalty often trump slight differences in fuel economy. While Audi’s Q7 with the 3.0L TFSI scores 18/23 MPG, similar to the Aviator, those numbers should be compared directly with observed gas mileage. For full specifications, and all Lincoln fuel economy data check out other models in the lineup.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use Lincoln’s drive modes strategically. “Conserve,” “Normal,” and “Slippery” modes will deliver the best fuel economy by adjusting throttle response, transmission shift points, and climate control settings. “Excite” mode will provide a more exhilarating driving experience, but expect a significant drop in MPG.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the door jamb sticker.

Avoid excessive idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and reliably, and the fuel saved by turning off the engine will add up over time. This is even more impactful with a turbocharged engine, which tends to consume more fuel at idle.

Lighten your load. Remove any unnecessary items from the vehicle, as extra weight reduces fuel economy. Every 100 pounds of extra weight can decrease your MPG by up to 1%, especially in stop-and-go city driving where you are constantly accelerating from a standstill.