2022 Ford Bronco vs 2023 Lincoln Aviator

The 2022 Ford Bronco was celebrated for its retro styling and robust off-road capabilities, making it a highly sought-after vehicle. With a lineup that included the Everglades and Bronco Raptor models, the Bronco catered to enthusiasts who valued swamp trekking and deep-water adventures. Its design was unapologetically utilitarian, featuring short overhangs, low-profile bumpers, and a tall ride height to enhance off-road performance. Inside, the Bronco maintained its rugged theme with features like sealed switches, marine-grade vinyl upholstery, and drain plugs, allowing for easy cleaning after off-road escapades. Despite its ruggedness, the Bronco incorporated modern technology, including G.O.A.T. modes and a digital instrument panel, ensuring it was both capable and tech-savvy.

In contrast, the 2023 Lincoln Aviator exuded luxury and sophistication, with a focus on comfort and style. The Aviator Grand Touring model featured a plug-in hybrid powertrain, offering impressive power and efficiency. Its design was marked by a modern Lincoln face and grille, though some found the wheel designs lacking in flair. Inside, the Aviator boasted a lavish cabin with high-end materials, including soft leather and a suede headliner. The Perfect Position front seats provided exceptional comfort, while the second-row captain's chairs offered ample space. However, the third-row seats were less accommodating for adults. The Aviator prioritized a quiet and smooth ride, with advanced technology like the Lincoln Embrace lighting sequence and a comprehensive suite of driver aids.

The 2022 Ford Bronco offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.3-litre four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque, and an optional 2.7-litre V6 engine delivering 330 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. The Bronco's off-road prowess was evident across its lineup, with models like the Everglades excelling in challenging terrains. It could ford water up to 92.5 centimetres deep and tackled difficult trails with ease. On-road, the Bronco impressed with its smooth ride and precise steering, making it a comfortable companion for long journeys. Wind noise was minimal, and the absence of tire howl added to its appeal.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring, a plug-in hybrid, combined a twin-turbo V6 engine with an electric motor, generating 494 horsepower and 630 pound-feet of torque. It offered 34 kilometres of electric driving range and averaged 10.3 litres per 100 kilometres in hybrid mode. The Aviator's driving modes, including Pure EV and Preserve EV, allowed for efficient use of the battery. While the Aviator provided ample power and a smooth ride, its drivetrain occasionally exhibited unpredictable behaviour. The brake pedal's inconsistent feel was a common issue with regenerative braking systems. Despite its commendable handling, the Aviator lacked the excitement of a sporty SUV, focusing instead on a quiet and comfortable driving experience.

The 2022 Ford Bronco's boxy design contributed to its spacious interior, offering generous headroom and legroom for passengers. Cargo capacity varied depending on the model and roof type, with the two-door hard top accommodating up to 634 litres behind the rear seats and 1,481 litres with them folded. The four-door hard top increased capacity to 1,008 litres and 2,197 litres, respectively. Clever storage solutions, such as netted door pockets and accessory rails, enhanced utility. The Bronco's removable doors and fender flares added to its versatility, while external hard mounting points provided additional functionality.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator prioritized comfort with features like a four-zone automatic climate control system, heated and ventilated seats, and massaging front seats. The second-row captain's chairs offered ample space, but the third-row seats were less accommodating for adults. With the third-row seats in use, the Aviator provided 519 litres of cargo space, expanding to 1,183 litres with them folded flat. Maximum cargo capacity reached 2,200 litres. The Aviator's interior was luxurious, with high-end materials and a focus on passenger comfort, though the third-row seats were best suited for children.

The 2022 Ford Bronco integrated technology to enhance its off-road capabilities, featuring G.O.A.T. modes for different terrains and a forward-looking trail camera for improved visibility. The Sync 4 infotainment system offered quick responses and sharp graphics, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard features. The Bronco's technology was designed to keep drivers engaged while providing confidence in challenging conditions.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring was equipped with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, including Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a navigation system. However, it ran on the older Sync 3 software, which struggled with voice recognition. The Aviator featured a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D audio system and innovative warning chimes recorded by the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. Smartphone-related tech included wireless charging and the optional Phone As A Key system. The Aviator's digital instrumentation and head-up display were user-friendly, while parking sensors and a surround-view camera system aided in parking.

The 2022 Ford Bronco offered standard safety features like hill-start assist, hill descent control, and trailer sway control. Optional packages added features such as frontal collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The Bronco received favourable safety ratings, with the four-door model earning four out of five stars for frontal crash protection from the NHTSA and a "Good" rating from the IIHS for frontal, side, and roof strength tests.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator came with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic high-beam headlights, adaptive cruise control, and forward-collision warning. The Aviator's driver aids performed well, though the lane-keeping system occasionally struggled in curves. The Aviator received a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, highlighting its strong safety credentials.