2024 Acura MDX vs 2025 Lincoln Aviator

The 2024 Acura MDX presented a striking exterior with its large shield grille, rakish headlights, and modern lower bumper design. Inside, the MDX was high-tech but cluttered, with a centre console filled with controls that could be overwhelming. The MDX offered various trims, including the A-Spec and Platinum Elite, with features like tri-zone climate control, a panoramic moonroof, and heated seats. The Type S Ultra trim added luxurious touches such as massaging front seats and a 25-speaker ELS sound system, making it a comfortable choice for long drives.

In contrast, the 2025 Lincoln Aviator, built on a rear-wheel-drive platform, showcased classic design proportions with a blunt nose and tapered roofline. The interior exuded a classic architectural sensibility, avoiding the screen-heavy approach of other models. However, the Aviator's remote keyless entry fob was criticized for its cheap feel. The Aviator was available in Premiere and Reserve trims, with the Reserve trim offering features like 30-way-adjustable front seats with massage and a 28-speaker Revel Ultima audio system. Despite some design tweaks, the Aviator maintained its appeal as a luxury SUV.

The 2024 Acura MDX featured a standard 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. The Type S Ultra trim upgraded to a twin-scroll turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, delivering 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. Power was managed through a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura's Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive System. The MDX Type S Ultra offered strong acceleration and a comfortable ride, with adaptive air suspension and Brembo performance brakes enhancing its performance. The MDX's towing capacity reached 2,268 kilograms.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator came with a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, generating 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. This power was delivered through a 10-speed automatic transmission to all four wheels. The Aviator offered various driving modes, including Excite and Normal, with an optional adaptive air suspension. While the Aviator's performance was not particularly thrilling, it excelled in providing a composed and calming ride. The Aviator's fuel economy was rated at 11.9 L/100 km, though real-world testing showed a higher consumption of 13.3 L/100 km.

The 2024 Acura MDX offered three rows of seating, with the first two rows providing comfort and support. The third row was smaller and best suited for children. Cargo space was generous, with a maximum of 2,690 litres available when the second and third rows were folded. The MDX featured a hands-free power liftgate and a centre console with ample storage. However, the centre stack of controls was criticized for its complexity, with a touchpad interface that was not user-friendly.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator's interior focused on comfort, with Perfect Position front seats offering 30-way adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The second-row captain's chairs were roomy and supportive, though the third-row seats were less accommodating for adults. The Aviator provided excellent storage space, with a centre console featuring a smartphone charging pad and deep door panel storage pockets. Cargo space was ample, with 466 litres behind the third row and a maximum of 2,149 litres available.

The 2024 Acura MDX's infotainment system was a weak point, with a clumsy interface controlled by a touchpad. Despite this, the MDX offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa integration, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The placement of charging ports was cleverly designed, but the overall system was not intuitive, making it less appealing compared to competitors like the Genesis GV80.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator featured a 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster and a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system powered by Lincoln Digital Experience. While the system supported Google Built-in and Alexa Built-in, the Google Assistant struggled with voice prompts. However, wireless Apple CarPlay and Siri worked well. The Aviator's 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D sound system was praised for its quality, and the head-up display provided valuable information.

The 2024 Acura MDX came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. It earned a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and was a 2022 IIHS Top Safety Pick+. However, the infotainment system's design posed a distraction risk.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator included the Lincoln Co-Pilot360 Drive 2.0 suite, featuring active blind-spot monitoring, intersection assist, and BlueCruise hands-free driving assistance. The Aviator received five-star ratings from NHTSA and Good ratings from IIHS. BlueCruise was praised for its proactive approach, though blind-spot warnings could be improved.