2025 Lincoln Aviator vs 2024 Mazda CX-30

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 was designed with a distinctive aesthetic, characterized by its excessive charcoal-coloured plastic cladding on the lower body, which some found overwhelming. Despite this, the crossover maintained an overall appealing look with its short overhangs, long and low hood, and sculpted flanks. The interior of the CX-30 was a standout, offering a level of style and refinement comparable to entry-level luxury SUVs. The gauges were clear, the infotainment screen was seamlessly integrated into the dashboard, and the dual-zone climate controls were elegantly designed.

In contrast, the 2025 Lincoln Aviator, built on a rear-wheel-drive platform shared with the Ford Explorer, boasted classic design proportions with a blunt nose and a tapered roofline. While the design was fundamentally appealing, the 2025 styling updates were seen as less elegant. Inside, the Aviator offered a plush interior with a classic architectural sensibility, avoiding the overuse of screens found in other models. However, the remote keyless entry fob was criticized for its cheap feel, though the Aviator's Phone as a Key technology offered a modern alternative.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30, equipped with a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivered 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque. Despite these figures, the power delivery was smooth rather than immediate, with torque arriving at 2,000 rpm. The six-speed automatic transmission provided flawless shifting, and the standard AWD system ensured power was distributed to all four wheels. However, fuel economy was a downside, with observed consumption at 13.3 L/100 km, and the small 48-litre fuel tank limited range. The CX-30 was praised for its nimble handling and excellent visibility, making it enjoyable to drive.

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 multiple driving modes, including Excite and Normal, with an optional adaptive air suspension. While the Aviator wasn't particularly thrilling to drive, it excelled in providing a composed and calming ride. Fuel economy was rated at 11.9 L/100 km, but real-world testing showed 13.3 L/100 km. The Aviator's adaptive air suspension and large tires contributed to a quiet ride, though road noise was noticeable on highways.

Inside the 2024 Mazda CX-30, the design was marked by quality materials and logical controls. The interior was somewhat cramped, especially in the back seat, but the front seats were comfortable and heated. The cargo space was flexible, offering 572 litres behind the back seat and 1,280 litres with the seats folded down, making it practical for a small SUV.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator's interior was highlighted by its Perfect Position front seats, offering 30-way adjustability, heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The second-row captain's chairs were also comfortable, 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 with the third row in use, expanding to 1,131 litres with it folded, and a maximum of 2,149 litres.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30's GT and Suna trims featured a new 10.25-inch infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the screen's distance from the driver and the lack of natural voice recognition were drawbacks. Mazda Connected Services offered a two-year complimentary subscription, and the GT and Suna trims included USB-C ports, a wireless smartphone charger, and a Bose premium audio system.

In the 2025 Lincoln Aviator, a 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster and a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system were standard. The Lincoln Digital Experience, with Google Built-in and Alexa Built-in, supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the Google Assistant struggled with voice prompts in the test vehicle. The 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D sound system provided excellent audio quality, and the head-up display was praised for its comprehensive data presentation.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 came equipped with a suite of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims offered additional features like adaptive headlights and a surround-view camera system. The CX-30 received top safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS.

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. While the reverse braking assist system was overly sensitive, the adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assist worked well. The Aviator earned high safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, indicating strong crash protection.