SW17LS

The Aviator is way more differentiated from the Explorer than the Escalade is from the Tahoe.

mmarshall

Why be surprised? You read my reviews regularly, and know what I write. The platform and drivetrain are the same...so are a few parts-bin pieces inside. The rest of the two vehicles are as different as Night and Day.


Some of the development was by the same engineers. But, at the same time, the engineers have to follow management directives. And Lincoln has new management now. Gone are the days when the division produces cookie-cutter Fords with a little more glitz and trim on them....you can kiss those days good-bye. Lincoln, today, produces credible luxury vehicles....you yourself have commented favorably on them.

Toys4RJill

I see it differently than you. I view it from a spectrum, so Explorer on the left, and the Aviator on the right, never severed. Both based on the CD6 platform, both sharing the same engines/powertrain etc, both have the same wheelbase. Underneath it all, very similar parts and methods of build. Both are built in the same Chicago Assembly plant. Where they differ to me is the body styling and materials inside, most of the parts and materials will be coming from the exact same part source. They are tuned slightly different in the suspension parts. So in other words, to me, the Aviator is a high Explorer, which has different sheetmetal and a different set of materials inside, tuning distinction as well, but at the of the day, all created by the same company. All the same principles would apply to the Camry/ES discussion in this type of thread.

Is there a designer who just works on the Aviator styling or interior design without regard to the Ford Explorer? Maybe, maybe not...but they still would report to Ford Corporate at the end of the day.

LexBob2

These are good points. The Explorer/Aviator comparison is similar to the Avalon/ES comparisons which have gone on for some time. They are similar but different and most likely appeal to a different consumer. Personally, I'd take the Aviator over an Explorer for a variety of reasons.

Toys4RJill

Thanks. I appreciate the support for my viewpoint. I would probably rather have the Aviator too

mmarshall

You make some valid points.....I don't entirely disagree with you. Most of the difference is indeed inside the body, cabin, materials, and sophistication/refinement. But, in the specific case of these two vehicles, that is a major difference...that's why I had to (respectfully) disagree with Bob on the Aviator being just an Explorer with more trim and equipment.

And, somehow, we all have gotten way off-topic on the old-vs.-new Camrys.....I'm surprised that the moderators haven't steered us back yet.

Toys4RJill

I am happy we can see each other’s point of views I personally think the best discussion and most thought-provoking ideas and disagreements/agreements come when we do go off topic in a thread. Anyways, it was a pleasure chatting it up with you. Just my opinion