2024 BMW X5 vs 2023 Lincoln Aviator

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator presented a sophisticated design with its modern Lincoln face and grille, making it a standout in the automaker’s SUV lineup. It featured a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The Grand Touring model added a hybrid system, enhancing its appeal with a 75-kilowatt electric motor and a 13.6-kilowatt-hour battery pack. Despite its luxurious interior with high-end materials and ambient lighting, some elements like the chrome detailing and key fob felt less premium. The Aviator’s exterior design was somewhat let down by its plain wheel designs, which didn’t match the vehicle’s price tag.

In contrast, the 2024 BMW X5 maintained a timeless design since its 2019 redesign, though the M Sport treatment was less appealing to some. The test vehicle featured optional 21-inch wheels, enhancing its sporty look. The X5 offered a range of powertrains, including a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine and a plug-in hybrid variant. The interior received a modern update with the BMW Curved Display, reducing physical controls while maintaining high-quality materials. The X5’s design and build quality tied it to BMW’s legacy, offering a blend of modern technology and traditional craftsmanship.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring, despite being a plug-in hybrid, delivered impressive power with 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 allowed for a mix of electric and gasoline use, optimizing efficiency. However, the drivetrain sometimes felt unpredictable, with inconsistent acceleration and braking behaviour. The available Dynamic Handling Package improved its cornering ability, but the Aviator was more about comfort than sporty driving.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e PHEV boasted a new electric motor and a 19.2-kilowatt-hour battery, offering 63 kilometres of electric range. It produced 483 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, accelerating to 96 km/h in 4.6 seconds. The X5 excelled in both electric and hybrid modes, with an average fuel economy of 6.0 L/100 km during testing. Its adaptive damping air suspension masked its weight, providing a smooth ride. The X5’s handling was exceptional, with precise steering and robust braking, making it enjoyable to drive in various conditions.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator prioritized comfort with features like a four-zone climate control system and massaging 30-way front seats. However, its third-row seating was cramped, making it less suitable for adults. Cargo space was limited with the third row in use, offering 519 litres, but expanded to 2,200 litres with seats folded.

The 2024 BMW X5 offered spacious seating for five and a 937-litre cargo area, expandable to 2,016 litres. Its split liftgate design provided convenience but required stretching to access deep cargo. The X5’s interior featured standard Sensafin artificial leather and optional multi-contour seats, enhancing comfort. The panoramic sunroof and climate control options added to its appeal as a family-friendly SUV.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator came equipped with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system running Sync 3 software, which showed its age in voice recognition performance. The system struggled with complex commands, making Apple CarPlay or Android Auto preferable. The Revel Ultima 3D audio system and digital instrumentation were highlights, while the Phone As A Key feature offered convenience.

The 2024 BMW X5 featured the BMW Curved Display with a 12.3-inch digital panel and a 14.9-inch touchscreen running iDrive 8.5. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a cloud-based navigation system. However, the Intelligent Personal Assistant’s performance was inconsistent, affecting voice command reliability. The head-up display and augmented video navigation added technological sophistication.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator included a comprehensive suite of safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping assist. However, the steering wheel controls were unnecessarily complex. The Aviator received a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.

The 2024 BMW X5 offered the Highway Assistant hands-free driving system, effective in specific conditions but occasionally unpredictable. Its adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance performed well, though some braking issues were noted. The X5 received high ratings from the IIHS, but lower headlight ratings prevented an award. The NHTSA gave it a four-star overall rating.