2022 Acura MDX vs 2023 Lincoln Aviator

The 2022 Acura MDX was a pioneer in the three-row luxury crossover SUV category, offering a compact exterior with a surprisingly spacious interior. This new generation was built on a dedicated platform, distinct from the Honda Pilot, with enhanced proportions including a longer wheelbase, wider body, and increased dash-to-axle distance, adding to its elegance. The MDX featured standard Jewel Eye LED headlights and larger wheels, contributing to a sportier and modern exterior design. Built in East Liberty, Ohio, the MDX showcased high craftsmanship and quality. Inside, the MDX boasted a modernized cabin with a layered dashboard, authentic materials, and a unique gear selection system. The 12.3-inch infotainment screen was strategically placed for safety, and the front seats offered comfort and adjustability, making the MDX a solid luxury vehicle.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator, on the other hand, was an appealing three-row midsize crossover with a distinctive Lincoln face and grille. Despite its elegant exterior, the wheel designs on the Grand Touring model were considered plain. The Aviator featured an inviting lighting sequence and electric, light-touch door handles, enhancing the brand's effortless image. Inside, the Aviator was undeniably fancy, with patterned metal trim, chrome accents, and a swanky simulated suede headliner. However, some chrome detailing felt cheap, and the key fob was lightweight and plasticky. The Aviator's interior was a mix of high-end materials and Art Deco style, offering comfort with its soft leather and padded surfaces, but the overall design was busy and might not appeal to everyone.

The 2022 Acura MDX was powered by a naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. It featured a new 10-speed automatic transmission and Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), enhancing cornering feel and control. The MDX's suspension was upgraded with a double-wishbone setup for sporty handling and improved ride quality. The vehicle's stiffness and rigidity were significantly improved, providing a solid ride feel. The MDX offered five drive modes, allowing drivers to tailor performance to their preferences. During test drives, the MDX impressed with its handling and performance, feeling closer to the benchmark Audi Q7.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring was a plug-in hybrid with a twin-turbo V6 engine, generating 494 horsepower and 630 lb-ft of torque. It offered 34 kilometres of electric driving range and averaged 10.3 L/100 km in hybrid mode. The Aviator featured multiple driving modes, including Pure EV and Preserve EV, to maximize efficiency. During an evaluation drive, the Aviator demonstrated impressive electric range and fuel economy. However, the drivetrain was sometimes unpredictable, and the brake pedal produced inconsistent behaviour. The Aviator's handling was commendable, but it lacked the fun-to-drive factor, focusing more on comfort and isolation.

The 2022 Acura MDX offered versatile seating with comfortable front and second-row seats, and a third row suitable for smaller passengers. The second row featured a removable centre section and could slide to balance legroom. The MDX provided ample cargo space, with up to 2,690 litres available when the second and third rows were folded. The power tailgate had convenient features like Walk Away Close and Hands-Free Access. Interior lighting was customizable, with 27 themes to choose from.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator prioritized comfort with features like a four-zone climate control system, heated and ventilated seats, and massaging front seats. However, the third row was cramped, making it less suitable for adults. The Aviator offered 519 litres of cargo space with the third row in use, expanding to 2,200 litres with the seats folded. The power-release second-row captain's chairs didn't slide forward much, limiting access to the third row.

The 2022 Acura MDX featured the ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System, offering exceptional sound quality. The 12.3-inch infotainment system and Acura Precision Cockpit digital instrument panel were standard, along with Amazon Alexa integration, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The MDX also included a head-up display, WiFi hotspot, and over-the-air updates.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator came with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, but it ran on the outdated Sync 3 software, which struggled with voice recognition. The Aviator featured a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D audio system and smartphone-related tech like wireless charging and Phone As A Key. The digital instrumentation and head-up display were effective, and the vehicle included parking sensors and a surround-view camera system.

The 2022 Acura MDX was rated as a "Top Safety Pick +" by the IIHS, with top marks in every category. It featured a higher percentage of high-strength steel and an advanced safety structure. The MDX included a low-speed braking control system and the AcuraWatch suite of safety features, such as collision mitigation emergency braking and adaptive cruise control.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection, and forward-collision warning. The Aviator's driver aids performed well on straight highways but were less dependable in dense traffic. The vehicle received a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.