Design Review: Lincoln Aviator concept

This car-based concept SUV is meant to act as a teaser for the next-generation Lincoln Aviator. The current Aviator is based on the Ford Explorer chassis and the assumption is that the next generation will use a car-based platform, such as that of the new Ford Freestyle.

The proportions owe something to a Lexus RX300: the screen is pushed more forward than a typical SUV, with a short rump and fast rake to the rear window, giving a hatchback-like look to the profile.

However, the design is also very clean, with sheer surfaces and a well-balanced stance, sitting on large 7-spoke twin-blade 21” alloy wheels, and the concept attracted many admiring comments by fellow designers at the show.

Both the Aviator and MarkX concepts feature a new front mask inspired by the iconic Elwood Engel-designed 1961 Lincoln Continental. The outer shape is defined by an upper chrome band and a ‘Bright Strip’ surround that continues up the fender and A-pillar, thus accentuating the profile of the car.

A polished egg-crate texture fills the centre and is broken up by use of five recessed vertical bars and a centre horizontal bar running into the LED headlamps. Compared to the rather crude waterfall grille themes used currently, it’s a great face - bold yet sophisticated, slightly mysterious yet not threatening. Let’s hope we see more of it in future.

The side view is characterised by another Lincoln cue: a notably wide C-pillar running at 45 degrees with a recessed Lincoln star emblem. The rear view features horizontal taillamps and a split glass tailgate, framed by the bright finisher continuing from the roof. The deep Pacific Blue body colour appears almost black from some angles, adding to the air of mystery and providing a striking contrast to the polished exterior brightwork.

The interior combines an aviation theme with innovative use of space, materials and new comfort features. Chief Designer Dave Woodhouse explains “The vehicle is designed to make you feel as though you purchased a 1st Class ticket on a most exclusive airliner”

The theme of jet travel is explored through the use of four individual cream leather seats, integrated footrests and genuine aeronautical eyeball vents in the cantrails and front header rail.

The centre of the interior is characterised by two sliding consoles whose shape allows them to be butted up tightly together or widely separated. They also feature airline-style fold-out aluminium tables, sliding roller shutter covers for storage and controls for personal climate and navigation.

The symmetrical instrument panel has an surprisingly ‘Art Deco’ feel to it, chiefly due to the treatment of the vertical chrome vents, rectangular instruments and the unusual use of polished metal column stalks and shifter.

The high-contrast interior features a combination of light and dark coloured leathers and a real Behr hardwood floor. The chocolate coloured leather and wood used from the beltline down provides a feeling of richness and comfort while the pale ivory leather used on upper surfaces helps lift attention upwards to the panoramic glass roof.

Finally, what’s commendable about the Aviator concept is the fine balance between handsome basic proportions, a crossover bodystyle that’s easily understood by today’s customer and styling which is inspired by the brand heritage, yet moves it decidedly forwards. Simple aims really, but surprisingly few recent crossover concepts achieve all of these.