2025 Lincoln Aviator vs 2024 Buick Envista

The 2024 Buick Envista, while sharing its platform with the Chevy Trax, ventured into a distinct styling direction. Its sloping roofline gave it a "crossover coupe" appearance, reminiscent of more upscale models like the BMW X2, X4, and X6. Although a more traditional roofline might have enhanced rear visibility, the design was deemed acceptable. The Envista's front-end styling, inspired by the Buick Wildcat EV concept, featured a split lighting design with thin daytime running lights above and vertical headlights flanking the grille. This sleek design was a first for Buick, setting the Envista apart from models like the Envision and Encore GX. The ST grade boasted black exterior trim and 18-inch wheels, while the top Avenir trim featured bright exterior trim and standard 19-inch wheels. Inside, the Envista's cabin, though similar to the Trax, offered a more streamlined look with softer materials, albeit with a somewhat artificial texture. Overall, the Envista's interior was a step up from the Trax, aligning with its entry-level status.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator, built on a rear-wheel-drive platform shared with the Ford Explorer, showcased classic design proportions. Its blunt nose, short front overhang, and tapered roofline created an appealing silhouette, though at the expense of third-row passenger space. The Aviator's design leaned more towards a sports wagon than an SUV, but the 2025 styling was perceived as less elegant. Inside, the Aviator offered a plush interior with a classic architectural sensibility, avoiding an over-reliance on screens. However, the remote keyless entry fob was criticized for its cheap appearance. In Canada, the Aviator was available in Premiere and Reserve trims, with prices ranging from $79,595 to $81,695. The Reserve trim, equipped with standard AWD, featured numerous desirable options, including upgraded lighting, 30-way-adjustable front seats, and a 28-speaker Revel Ultima audio system. Despite its luxurious features, the Aviator's design and technology aimed for a more traditional approach.

The 2024 Buick Envista was powered by a 1.2-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine, producing 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. This powertrain, shared with the Trax, offered a refined performance, delivering power smoothly. Unlike its predecessor, the Buick Encore, the Envista did not offer an all-wheel-drive option, differentiating it from the Encore GX. The Envista's suspension setup included a torsion-beam rear suspension for base models and a Buick-exclusive Watts Link rear suspension for models with 19-inch wheels, enhancing ride quality. The front suspension featured a MacPherson strut setup with Buick-specific tuning. During testing, the Envista demonstrated commendable handling on challenging roads, though it felt slightly unsettled on imperfect surfaces. Overall, the Envista provided a more premium feel compared to the Trax, with a quieter and more comfortable ride.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator featured a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, delivering 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque through a 10-speed automatic transmission to all four wheels. Drivers could choose from various driving modes, including Excite and Normal. The Aviator's adaptive air suspension, optional on the test vehicle, firmed up in Excite mode but maintained a focus on comfort. The V6 engine provided ample power for acceleration and passing, though fuel economy was observed at 13.3 L/100 km, higher than the official rating. The Aviator offered clear sightlines and a 360-degree camera view for urban driving. However, the ride quality was affected by the 22-inch wheels and thin tires, generating noticeable road noise. Despite the Dynamic Handling Package, the Aviator's driving character prioritized comfort over athleticism, with the adaptive Air Glide suspension ensuring a composed and calming ride.

The 2024 Buick Envista, measuring 36 centimetres longer than the outgoing Buick Encore, offered improved interior space. Its longer wheelbase increased rear-seat legroom by 7.6 cm and shoulder room by 5 cm, though headroom decreased slightly due to the coupe-like roofline. The seats were comfortable, and a power moonroof was available on higher trims. The Envista's design provided good outward visibility, with a car-like driving position. However, cargo space was limited, with 586 litres behind the rear seats and 1,189 litres with the seats folded, less than the Trax and other competitors.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator excelled in interior comfort, with available Perfect Position front seats offering 30 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. Storage space was excellent, with a well-organized centre console and deep door pockets. The Aviator provided 466 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,131 litres with the seats folded, and a maximum of 2,149 litres. Despite some limitations, the Aviator's interior was practical and luxurious.

The 2024 Buick Envista came equipped with an 11-inch touchscreen and 8-inch digital instrument cluster as standard, along with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless phone charging, and Wi-Fi connectivity. The interface was user-friendly, with retained buttons and knobs for climate and audio controls. However, the centre stack's tilt towards the driver made controls less accessible for passengers. While the Envista lacked some advanced tech features, it offered a competitive amount of technology for its price range.

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. It supported Google Built-in, Alexa Built-in, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the Google Assistant struggled with voice prompts during testing. The Aviator's 28-speaker Revel Ultima sound system provided excellent audio quality. The available head-up display offered comprehensive data, enhancing the driving experience. Despite some tech issues, the Aviator's infotainment system was well-equipped.

The 2024 Buick Envista's crash-test ratings were unavailable at the time of publication. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane-keep assist, and lane-departure warning. In Canada, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert were also standard, providing a typical safety package for its price range.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator boasted the Lincoln Co-Pilot360 Drive 2.0 suite, including active blind-spot monitoring, intersection assist, and evasive steering assist. The reverse braking assist system required deactivation due to sensitivity issues. Adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assist worked effectively, with BlueCruise offering hands-free driving on approved highways. The Aviator received five-star ratings from the NHTSA and Good ratings from the IIHS, confirming its safety credentials.