So, Does the Lincoln Aviator Really Have a 3rd Row? Let's Break It Down.
Alright, let's get straight to the point, because if you're like me, you don't have all day to wade through jargon. You're probably browsing sleek luxury SUVs, maybe dreaming of that smooth ride and classy interior, and then a crucial question pops into your head: does the Lincoln Aviator have a 3rd row? It's a make-or-break feature for many families, or even just for those of us who occasionally need to haul an extra kid (or two) to soccer practice, or ferry a couple of friends for a night out without taking a second car.
And the answer, my friend, is a resounding yes, it does! The Lincoln Aviator, a truly gorgeous and sophisticated mid-size luxury SUV, comes standard with a third row of seating, making it a legitimate 7-seater. But, as with anything in life, there's always a "but," isn't there? It's not just that it has a third row, it's how it has one, and whether it's the right fit for your life. So, buckle up, because we're going to dive deep into what that third row actually means for you, your passengers, and your cargo.
The Aviator's Appeal: More Than Just Good Looks
Before we dissect the third row, let's quickly touch on why the Aviator is even on your radar. Lincoln has really stepped up its game in recent years, shedding some of its older, more traditional images and embracing a modern, luxurious, and supremely comfortable aesthetic. The Aviator is a shining example of this. It's got that undeniable presence, a quiet cabin that makes every drive feel serene, and an interior that just oozes quality. From the supple leather to the thoughtful technology, it's designed to cocoon you in comfort.
It sits squarely in the competitive mid-size luxury SUV segment, a space where versatility is key. People want style, power, and creature comforts, but they also often need the practical ability to adapt to changing family dynamics or lifestyle needs. And that's precisely where the question of "does Lincoln Aviator have a 3rd row" becomes so critical. It's about offering that extra layer of flexibility without compromising the premium experience.
Yes, It's There! Unpacking the Third Row Seating
So, we've established that the Aviator does indeed come with a third row. This means a standard 2-3-2 seating configuration, allowing it to accommodate up to seven people. Generally, the second row offers a choice between a bench seat (for three passengers) or captain's chairs (two individual seats, which often make access to the third row a bit easier, but reduce total capacity to six). Many folks opt for the captain's chairs for that extra touch of luxury and ease of movement, especially if they'll be using the third row frequently.
Getting into that third row usually involves tilting and sliding the second-row seats forward, a process that can often be done with a simple push of a button or pull of a lever, depending on the trim level. Lincoln understands that convenience is king, especially when you've got hands full or kids clamoring to get in. It's not always a graceful ballet, mind you, but it's certainly manageable for most.
Practicality and Comfort: What to Expect Back There
Now, let's be real. While the Aviator has a third row, it's important to set realistic expectations. This isn't a full-size SUV like a Navigator or an Expedition, where the third row is practically a second living room. The Aviator is a mid-size vehicle, and its third row reflects that.
Space Considerations
- Legroom: You'll find the third row best suited for children and smaller teenagers. Adults can fit back there for shorter trips – think a quick dinner run or a short hop across town – but it's unlikely to be comfortable for a multi-hour road trip. My taller friends would definitely feel a bit squished after a while.
- Headroom: Similar to legroom, it's adequate for kids and average-height adults, but very tall passengers might find their heads brushing the ceiling.
- Shoulder Room: It's a two-person bench back there, so it's snug but workable. Don't expect limousine levels of elbow room.
Features and Amenities
Lincoln hasn't entirely forgotten the third-row passengers. You'll usually find dedicated air vents for climate control back there, and sometimes even USB charging ports and cupholders. These little touches really make a difference, especially for kids who want to keep their devices charged or their juice boxes handy. It shows that while it might not be the most spacious, it's certainly not an afterthought.
Cargo Space: The Inevitable Trade-Off
Here's where the rubber meets the road, or rather, where the seats meet the trunk. When that third row is in use, your cargo space behind it shrinks significantly. We're talking enough for a few grocery bags, maybe a couple of small backpacks, or a stroller if you really Tetris it in there. You're not fitting a week's worth of luggage for seven people with all seats up, that's for sure.
However, the beauty of the Aviator's design, and a key benefit of it being a luxury SUV, is its versatility. The third row can be power-folded flat into the floor with the touch of a button. Seriously, it's one of those "wow, that's convenient" features. Once those seats are down, you unlock a generous amount of cargo space, transforming the Aviator into a very capable two-row hauler. And if you fold down the second row as well, you've got a cavernous, flat load floor perfect for larger items like furniture, sports gear, or camping equipment. It's truly a chameleon of a vehicle in that regard.
Who is the Lincoln Aviator with a Third Row For?
So, after all this, who exactly is the ideal owner for an Aviator with its standard third row?
- Families with Young Kids: If you have two kids but occasionally need to carpool an extra friend or grandparent, or if you're planning for a third child, the Aviator's third row offers that perfect "just in case" flexibility.
- Occasional Extra Passengers: Do you sometimes ferry visiting relatives, colleagues, or friends for short distances? This third row is brilliant for those scenarios, providing luxury comfort for the primary passengers and functional seating for occasional extras.
- Those Who Value Versatility: You might not use the third row every day, or even every week, but knowing it's there, easily deployable when needed, provides peace of mind and expands your vehicle's capabilities.
- Luxury Seekers Who Don't Want a Full-Size SUV: You crave the premium experience, the serene ride, and the elegant design of a Lincoln, but don't need or want the sheer size and footprint of a Navigator. The Aviator strikes that excellent balance.
It's probably not the ideal choice if you regularly need to transport six or seven adults on long journeys, or if you consistently need maximum cargo space and all passenger seats simultaneously. For those heavy-duty demands, a larger SUV might be a better fit.
Making the Decision: Is it Right for You?
Ultimately, the answer to "does Lincoln Aviator have a 3rd row" is an unequivocal yes, and it's a thoughtfully designed one at that. It adds a layer of practicality to an already luxurious package, making the Aviator a highly versatile choice in the mid-size luxury SUV segment.
When you're considering it, I'd highly recommend a test drive with your family in tow. Try getting your kids (and maybe even a brave friend or two) into that third row. See how easily those seats fold, and imagine your typical cargo needs. Think about your daily routine and those occasional big trips.
The Aviator's third row isn't designed to be a primary seating area for adults on extended journeys, but for occasional use, for kids, or for providing that priceless flexibility, it absolutely delivers. It's a compelling option that allows you to have your luxurious cake and eat it too, with enough room for a few extra sprinkles.