Lincoln Reveals Aviator EX8 Plug-In Hybrid SUV
The Chinese-market SUV, developed with Changan, is sold exclusively as a plug-in hybrid and differs from the U.S. Aviator in size.
Updated on Nov. 9, 2026 in Car Types
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Lincoln revealed the Aviator EX8, a plug-in hybrid SUV developed with Chinese joint venture partner Changan. Preliminary images were published online by China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology.
Why it matters
The Aviator EX8 shows how Lincoln is adapting its model line for China, where it is built through a local partnership rather than the U.S. Aviator's design. It also signals a plug-in hybrid-only approach for that market.
The Aviator EX8 uses a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 148 horsepower, and its lithium-ion phosphate battery pack comes from the Changan-CATL joint venture. Its dimensions are slightly smaller than the U.S. Aviator's.
The players
Lincoln
Lincoln is the luxury vehicle brand of Ford Motor Company, known for its Aviator and Navigator SUVs sold in North America and China.
Changan
Changan is a major Chinese automaker and Lincoln's joint venture partner in China, co-developing vehicles for the Chinese market.
The details
Lincoln worked with Changan to develop the Aviator EX8, which shares design similarities with the U.S. Aviator but is a separate vehicle. The model will be sold exclusively as a plug-in hybrid.
Timeline
2019: Second-generation U.S. Aviator launched.
2025 model year: The Aviator received a thorough facelift.
November 9, 2026: Preliminary images and details of the Aviator EX8 were reported.
Roadmap
The Aviator EX8 extends Lincoln's joint venture with Changan, which builds vehicles for China rather than importing U.S. models. The plug-in hybrid-only approach reflects the broader shift toward electrified powertrains in the Chinese auto market.
Buyers in China will have access to the Aviator EX8 as a plug-in hybrid only, which may affect charging needs and fuel costs. U.S. drivers should not expect this model in American showrooms based on the information available.
The takeaway
Model differences between regional versions of the same nameplate can be significant, so buyers comparing vehicles across markets should check exact dimensions and powertrain options. The Aviator EX8 illustrates how the same name can describe different vehicles in different countries.
Further reading
For more on how different vehicle styles compare, browse our Car Types coverage.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Carscoops.
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