2023 Kia Telluride vs 2023 Lincoln Aviator

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator presented itself as a sophisticated three-row, midsize crossover, boasting a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The Grand Touring model enhanced this with a hybrid system, adding a 75-kilowatt electric motor and a 13.6-kilowatt-hour battery pack. Despite its luxurious appeal, the Aviator's price range, starting at $73,400 and reaching up to $103,745 for a fully loaded model, made it ineligible for federal EV rebates in Canada. The Aviator's design was marked by a modern Lincoln face and grille, though the wheel designs on the Grand Touring model were considered too plain, detracting from its premium price tag. The interior was lavish, with high-end materials and a plethora of design elements, though some chrome detailing felt cheap. The Aviator's key fob was also criticized for its lightweight, plastic feel, though the optional Phone As A Key technology offered a modern alternative.

In contrast, the 2023 Kia Telluride X-Line and X-Pro models showcased fresh styling with updated headlights, taillights, and new wheel designs. The X-Line featured a raised suspension, unique grille, and black 20-inch wheels, while the X-Pro added exclusive 18-inch wheels and all-terrain tires, enhancing its off-road appeal. The interior updates were subtle, with a new digital instrumentation panel and a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The Telluride's interior offered new colour options and minor trim changes, with the X-Line and X-Pro trims featuring embossed seatbacks. In Canada, the Telluride was available in multiple trims, with prices starting at $50,195 for the EX and reaching $62,795 for the X-Pro. The Telluride's design updates and interior enhancements positioned it as a modern and versatile SUV, appealing to those seeking both style and functionality.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring, despite being a plug-in hybrid, was not solely focused on efficiency. Its drivetrain delivered an impressive 494 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 630 pound-feet of torque at 2,250 rpm. The Aviator offered a 34-kilometre electric driving range, with a combined fuel economy of 10.3 litres per 100 kilometres in hybrid mode. Various driving modes, including Pure EV, Preserve EV, Conserve, Normal, and Excite, allowed for tailored driving experiences. During testing, the Aviator achieved 35.8 kilometres on electric power alone, with a fuel economy equivalent to 1.4 L/100 km. Over a longer drive, it averaged 9.7 L/100 km. The Aviator's powertrain was powerful but sometimes unpredictable, with inconsistent brake pedal behaviour. The available Dynamic Handling Package improved handling, but the Aviator was not particularly fun to drive, focusing more on comfort and isolation.

The 2023 Kia Telluride retained its 3.8-litre V6 engine, producing 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. It offered Eco, Comfort, Smart, Sport, and Snow driving modes, with an AWD system featuring a low-speed Lock setting. The Telluride X-Line averaged 9.8 litres per 100 kilometres, while the X-Pro returned 11.5 L/100 km, including off-roading. Official ratings suggested 11.4 L/100 km in combined driving. The Telluride's suspension was raised for improved off-road performance, with a new Downhill Brake Control system. The X-Pro model, with its all-terrain tires and increased towing capacity, excelled off-road. On highways, the Telluride offered a smooth ride, though the steering in Sport mode was overly firm. Overall, the Telluride was delightful to drive, balancing comfort and capability.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator prioritized comfort with features like a four-zone automatic climate control system, heated and ventilated seats, and massaging 30-way Perfect Position front seats. The second-row captain’s chairs were spacious, but the third row was cramped, making it unsuitable for adults. Cargo space was limited with the third row in use, offering 519 litres, but expanded to 1,183 litres with the seats folded, and a maximum of 2,200 litres. The Aviator's interior was luxurious but not the most practical for larger families or those needing ample cargo space.

The 2023 Kia Telluride offered seating for seven or eight, with premium Nappa leather upholstery and heated and ventilated front and second-row seats. The interior was spacious, with comfortable seating and ample storage. The second row featured manual sunshades, USB ports, and climate controls. The third row was more accessible and comfortable than many competitors, though not as spacious as the Volkswagen Atlas. Cargo space was generous, with 601 litres behind the third row, 1,304 litres with it folded, and a maximum of 2,455 litres. The Telluride's interior was practical and well-suited for families, with thoughtful storage solutions and easy access to the third row.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring was equipped with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a navigation system. However, it ran on the outdated Sync 3 software, which struggled with voice recognition. The Aviator also included a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D audio system, wireless charging, and a Phone As A Key system. Digital instrumentation and a head-up display were standard, along with parking sensors and a surround-view camera. Despite its technological offerings, the Aviator's infotainment system was a weak point, with Sync 3 failing to meet expectations.

The 2023 Kia Telluride featured a new 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Kia Connect services. It excelled in voice recognition, though climate control adjustments required manual input. Over-the-air updates kept the system current, and Bluetooth supported dual-device pairing. The Telluride included Driver Talk and Quiet Mode, a wireless phone charger, and a 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. New digital-key technology and a Full Display rear-view mirror were also available. The Telluride's technology suite was comprehensive and user-friendly, enhancing the overall driving experience.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator came with a suite of airbags and Lincoln Co-Pilot360 driver aids, including adaptive cruise control, road-sign recognition, and pedestrian detection. It also featured blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and evasive steering assist. The Aviator's safety tech performed well on highways but was less reliable in dense traffic. The IIHS rated the standard Aviator as a Top Safety Pick, and the NHTSA gave it a five-star overall rating.

The 2023 Kia Telluride offered a comprehensive list of safety features, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and automatic emergency braking. It also had blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. New features included Intelligent Speed Limit Assist and Highway Drive Assist 1.5. The Telluride's safety systems worked effectively, providing confidence on the road. The IIHS awarded it a Top Safety Pick+ rating, though NHTSA ratings were unavailable.