2024 Lexus TX vs 2023 Lincoln Aviator

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator presented itself as a sophisticated three-row, midsize crossover, boasting a modern Lincoln face and grille that stood out in the automaker’s lineup. It offered a choice of powertrains, with the Reserve model featuring 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 wheel designs were considered plain, and the interior, while high-end with soft leather and a panoramic sunroof, was seen as overly ornate with its Art Deco influences. The electronic door latches, though innovative, required careful handling to avoid pinching fingers.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus TX, based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, offered a more conservative and upscale design. The TX 350 Executive package included striking 22-inch wheels that enhanced its presence. The styling was toned down compared to other Lexus models, appealing to those who preferred a subtler look. The TX came in various model series, including the TX 350, TX 500h F Sport Performance, and TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid, with prices ranging from $72,036 to $87,486. The TX 350, likely the volume seller, featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with standard all-wheel drive. The interior, while luxurious, was criticized for its dark colour scheme, but it offered ample space and comfort, especially in the third row, which was more accommodating than previous Lexus models.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring, a plug-in hybrid, delivered impressive power with its drivetrain generating 494 horsepower and 630 pound-feet of torque. Despite its added weight, it offered a 34-kilometre electric driving range and averaged 10.3 litres per 100 kilometres in hybrid mode. The Aviator featured multiple driving modes, including Pure EV and Preserve EV, allowing drivers to optimize battery usage. During testing, it achieved a fuel economy equivalent to 1.4 L/100 km when relying heavily on electric power. The Aviator's handling was commendable, with an available Dynamic Handling Package and adaptive suspension, though it lacked the fun factor in driving dynamics. The steering was heavy and numb, but the ride was quiet and smooth, making it ideal for comfortable cruising.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350, equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, produced 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated to 100 km/h in about eight seconds, feeling quicker due to its torque delivery. The TX 350's fuel economy was rated at 10.3 litres per 100 kilometres, similar to the older RX L model. During testing, it averaged 13.8 L/100 km. The TX 350's suspension provided a balanced ride, firm enough for road feedback yet comfortable for passengers. The steering was accurate and responsive, and the interior remained quiet on highways. The brake pedal, though initially soft, was easy to modulate for smooth stops.

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 and supportive, but the third row was cramped for adults, with limited kneeroom and legroom. Cargo space was 519 litres with the third row in use, expanding to 1,183 litres with it folded, and a maximum of 2,200 litres with all seats down.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. It offered premium semi-aniline leather and artificial suede upholstery, with heated and ventilated seats as standard. The third row was notably more accommodating for adults, with a stadium-style seat providing leg support. The TX offered 572 litres of cargo space behind the third row, 1,625 litres with it folded, and a maximum of 2,746 litres, making it highly practical for families and road trips.

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 digital key system. The head-up display was effective even with polarized sunglasses, and parking sensors and a surround-view camera aided in parking.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 14-inch touchscreen with the Lexus Interface infotainment system. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a Drive Connect subscription providing cloud-based navigation and a digital assistant. The TX included a 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system and various connectivity services. However, the head-up display controls were criticized for being unmarked and difficult to use with polarized sunglasses.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator came with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. The Aviator received a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. However, the steering wheel controls for the driver aids were unnecessarily complex.

The 2024 Lexus TX was equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Additional features included blind-spot monitoring and traffic jam assist. The safety systems generally performed well, though the TX slowed too dramatically when other vehicles cut in, causing frustration for following drivers.