2025 Lincoln Aviator vs 2024 Lexus GX

The 2024 Lexus GX 550 presented a stark contrast to its predecessor, the 2023 GX 460, with its bold geometric styling replacing the softer, rounded corners of the older model. The signature spindle grille remained, albeit less pronounced, flanked by standard triple-beam LED headlights that sat at the squared-off upper edge of the front fascia. The new design featured a more vertical front end, with a stiffened chin for an aggressive look, and a flat hood with humps above each front wheel to aid off-road driving. The side profile of the GX appeared as if carved from a solid block, with minimal character lines and a low window beltline for enhanced visibility. The rear design continued the horizontal theme, with standard running boards completing the look.

Lexus offered the GX in Canada with a single trim level and five packages: Premium, Overtrail, Luxury, Overtrail+, and Executive. The Luxury models focused on opulence with features like 22-inch wheels and ambient lighting, while the Overtrail packages emphasized off-roading with 18-inch wheels and eco-friendly Nuluxe leatherette upholstery. The interior combined luxury with utilitarian materials, featuring a 14-inch touchscreen and physical controls for off-road functions. Although less luxurious than some competitors, the GX was designed for durability and a premium feel.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator, built on a rear-wheel-drive platform shared with the Ford Explorer, boasted classic design proportions with a blunt nose, short front overhang, and a tapered roofline. While the design was appealing, the 2025 styling appeared less elegant and more generic, especially with the optional Jet Appearance Package. Inside, the Aviator offered a plush interior with a classic architectural sensibility, avoiding an overload of screens while maintaining technological advancement. However, the remote keyless entry fob was criticized for its cheap appearance, though the Aviator's Phone as a Key technology offered a modern alternative.

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 extra-cost paint and a centre console between second-row captain’s chairs. The Reserve 201A package added desirable features like upgraded lighting, 30-way-adjustable front seats with massage, and a 28-speaker Revel Ultima audio system. Despite some shortcomings, the Aviator's interior and features aimed to provide a luxurious experience.

The 2024 Lexus GX transitioned from a V8 to a twin-turbocharged 3.4-litre V6 engine, delivering 349 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain provided more power than its predecessor, with torque available low in the rev range for off-road capability. Built on the GA-F truck platform, the GX offered a stiffer chassis for stability on and off-road. The 10-speed automatic transmission operated confidently, with standard full-time 4WD and a locking Torsen limited-slip centre differential. The Overtrail packages added a locking rear differential and the Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS) for enhanced off-road performance. Despite its weight of 2,570 kg, the GX demonstrated controlled behaviour on-road and off-road, though testing conditions limited a full evaluation of its capabilities.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator featured a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, producing 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Aviator offered various driving modes, including Excite and Normal, with an optional adaptive air suspension for improved handling. While the Aviator excelled in acceleration and passing power, its fuel economy was less impressive, with observed consumption at 13.3 L/100 km. The Aviator provided clear sightlines and a 360-degree camera for urban driving, though the ride quality suffered on rough surfaces due to the 22-inch wheels. The adaptive air suspension managed body motions, but the Aviator's driving character leaned towards comfort rather than sportiness.

The 2024 Lexus GX's interior marked a shift towards minimalism, with fewer physical buttons but retaining essential controls. The first and second rows offered ample space for six-foot-tall adults, with 1,047 mm of legroom in the front and 933 mm in the second row. The third row, available in certain packages, was tight for adults despite its 810 mm of legroom. The GX excelled in cargo space, with 292 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,138 litres with it folded, and a total of 2,178 litres. Overtrail models offered even more space, with 45.6 cubic feet behind the second row and 1,291 litres total.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator's Perfect Position front seats offered exceptional comfort with 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, with a centre console featuring a smartphone charging pad and deep door panel pockets. Cargo space was generous, with 466 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,131 litres with it folded, and a maximum of 2,149 litres. Despite some limitations, the Aviator's interior aimed to deliver a luxurious experience.

The 2024 Lexus GX featured a 14-inch touchscreen with USB-C ports and a wireless charging pad. The Lexus Interface infotainment system supported Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with Drive Connect offering voice assistance. Remote Connect provided remote locking and unlocking, with subscription costs after a three-year trial. The GX came with a 10-speaker audio system, with higher packages offering a 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo. While the interface was user-friendly, subscription costs for features were a consideration for long-term ownership.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator offered a 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster and a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system powered by Lincoln Digital Experience. It included Google Built-in and Alexa Built-in, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the Google Assistant struggled with voice prompts, though Apple CarPlay and Siri worked well. The Aviator featured an app called Elevated Journey for mindfulness coaching and a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D sound system. The head-up display provided comprehensive data, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2024 Lexus GX received significant safety upgrades with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including pre-collision detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and road-sign recognition. While crash tests were pending, the modern GA-F architecture and advanced driver assistance systems improved confidence in its safety offerings.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator came with Lincoln Co-Pilot360 Drive 2.0, featuring active blind-spot monitoring, intersection assist, evasive steering assist, and reverse braking assist. BlueCruise offered hands-free driving assistance on approved highways, with a four-year subscription included. The Aviator earned five-star ratings from the NHTSA and Good ratings from the IIHS, indicating strong safety performance.