2025 Lincoln Aviator vs 2024 Chevrolet Suburban

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban, a long-standing icon in the automotive world, continued to blend seamlessly into traffic despite its massive size. With a history spanning 90 years, the Suburban was a familiar sight on the roads, offering a sense of tradition rather than novelty. Its imposing dimensions, stretching nearly the length of an NBA baseline three-point shot and standing tall enough to rival an NBA player, were not for everyone, especially those navigating urban environments. However, for those in need of ample cargo and passenger space, as well as towing capacity, the Suburban was a practical choice. Available in six trims, from the basic LS to the luxurious High Country, the Suburban offered a range of features, including automatic windshield wipers, LED headlights, and tinted windows. While the top-tier trims provided additional options like power running-board steps and a panoramic power moonroof, some features expected as standard were still optional. Inside, the Suburban boasted a comfortable cabin with leather upholstery in higher trims, though it felt somewhat pedestrian despite its premium features.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator, built on a rear-wheel-drive platform shared with the Ford Explorer, showcased classic design proportions with a blunt nose, short front overhang, and a tapered roofline. While the 2025 styling appeared less elegant than before, the Aviator maintained an appealing silhouette. Inside, the Aviator exuded a classic architectural sensibility, avoiding an overload of screens while still offering advanced technology. However, the remote keyless entry fob felt cheap, contrasting with the Aviator's otherwise luxurious interior. In Canada, the Aviator was available in Premiere and Reserve trims, with our test vehicle arriving in Reserve trim, featuring standard all-wheel drive, Whisper Blue paint, and several option packages. The Reserve 201A package added desirable features like upgraded exterior lighting, 30-way-adjustable front seats with massage, and a 28-speaker Revel Ultima audio system. Despite its impressive features, the Aviator's driving character leaned towards comfort rather than excitement, with a heavy, syrupy feel to the steering and a focus on providing a composed and calming ride.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban offered three engine options: two V8s and a straight-six diesel. The standard 5.3-litre V8 engine, found in most trims, delivered 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, providing ample power and a towing capacity of up to 3,765 kilograms with the Max Trailering Package. The 6.2-litre V8, available on higher trims, offered 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, providing smoother acceleration. The Duramax 3.0-litre turbodiesel six-cylinder, with 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, excelled in fuel economy and towing capabilities. Managed by a 10-speed automatic transmission, the diesel engine impressed with its smooth performance. The Suburban's size was evident, but its steering and brakes were up to the task, and the height-adjustable air suspension handled rough roads well.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator featured a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, producing 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Aviator offered various driving modes, including Excite, Conserve, Normal, Slippery, and Deep Conditions. While the Aviator wasn't particularly exciting to drive, it excelled in providing a comfortable and composed ride. The adaptive air suspension, though firm in Excite mode, ensured a smooth ride in Normal mode. The Aviator's fuel economy was rated at 11.9 litres per 100 kilometres, but our test observed 13.3 L/100 km. The Aviator's sightlines were clear, aided by thin windshield pillars and large side mirrors. However, the ride quality suffered on rough roads due to the heavy 22-inch wheels and thin tires. The Aviator's adaptive Air Glide suspension effectively controlled body motions, ensuring a secure and calming driving experience.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban excelled in cargo space, offering 1,175 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,656 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 4,097 litres. This made it a top choice for those needing ample storage, surpassing competitors like the Ford Expedition Max and Jeep Wagoneer L. The Suburban's 106-litre fuel tank, combined with the diesel engine's efficiency, allowed for long highway drives between fill-ups.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator offered luxurious comfort with its Perfect Position front seats, adjustable in 30 ways with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The second-row captain's chairs were roomy and supportive, though lacking massage features. The third-row seats were less accommodating for adults, with limited legroom. The Aviator provided excellent storage, with a centre console featuring a smartphone charging pad, cupholders, and a sizeable bin. The Aviator offered 466 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,131 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 2,149 litres.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban featured a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system, standard on most trims, with Google Built-in for seamless access to apps like Google Maps and Google Assistant. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay were included, along with an optional rear-seat entertainment system. However, the 10-speaker Bose audio system lacked the richness of higher-end systems.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator boasted a 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster and a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system powered by Lincoln Digital Experience. While Google Built-in and Alexa Built-in were included, the Google Assistant struggled with voice prompts. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto worked well, and the 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D sound system impressed with its quality. The Aviator's head-up display provided valuable information, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban received a four-star overall crash safety rating from the NHTSA, with four stars in frontal crash tests, five in side-crash tests, and three in rollover tests. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and more. Higher trims offered Super Cruise, a semi-autonomous driving technology.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator came equipped with Lincoln Co-Pilot360 Drive 2.0, featuring advanced safety systems like active blind-spot monitoring, intersection assist, and evasive steering assist. BlueCruise, a hands-free driving assistance system, was standard, offering a four-year subscription. The Aviator earned five-star ratings from the NHTSA and Good ratings from the IIHS, indicating strong safety performance.