2025 Lincoln Aviator vs 2024 Mazda CX-50

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 presented itself as a more rugged alternative to the CX-5, with significant dimensional differences that included being lower, wider, and longer. Its design was fresh and modern, with broad-shouldered proportions highlighted by square wheel arches and faux air vents. The Meridian Edition, in particular, emphasized an active-lifestyle image with all-terrain tires, a black hood graphic, and pronounced rocker-panel trim. The interior was well-crafted, with a pleasing design and high-quality materials, although it fell short of Mazda's upscale aspirations, as evidenced by the standard half-leatherette seats and manually adjustable passenger seat.

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 2025 styling was less elegant than before, the Aviator's plush interior exuded a classic architectural sensibility. The cabin was not overwhelmed by screens, maintaining a traditional approach while still being technologically advanced. However, the remote keyless entry fob was a letdown, made of cheap plastic and oversized. The Aviator's Phone as a Key technology and touchpad entry system offered modern conveniences, and the Reserve trim level provided a luxurious experience with features like 30-way-adjustable front seats and a high-end audio system.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 was powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, with turbocharging available on higher trims. The base engine delivered 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, while the turbo variant offered up to 256 hp and 320 lb-ft on 93-octane gasoline. All models came with a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, along with Normal, Sport, and Off-road driving modes. Turbo models also included a Towing mode, increasing towing capacity to 1,587 kilograms. Despite sharing powertrains with the CX-5, the CX-50 offered a different driving experience, more aligned with its segment. The Meridian Edition's all-terrain tires added noise and limited grip, but the CX-50 remained a well-mannered daily driver.

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. It offered multiple driving modes, including Excite and Conserve, and an optional adaptive air suspension. While the Aviator wasn't particularly exciting to drive, it excelled in providing a composed and calming cruising experience. The V6 engine delivered ample power for acceleration and passing, though fuel economy was less impressive at 13.3 L/100 km. The Aviator's adaptive air suspension and large tires contributed to a quiet ride, although road noise was noticeable on highways. The SUV's handling was secure, with the Air Glide suspension effectively managing body motions.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 offered similar passenger space to the CX-5, with slightly less headroom but more legroom. It provided 889 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,595 litres with them folded, though it trailed competitors in cargo capacity. The available power liftgate improved cargo access, but the cargo area wasn't ideal for bulky items. The interior layout was sensible, with adequate storage space and a substantial shifter and rotary infotainment controller on the centre console.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator excelled in comfort, with Perfect Position front seats offering 30 adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage. 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 panel pockets. The Aviator provided 466 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,131 litres with it folded, and a maximum of 2,149 litres. The cargo area was practical, though not as spacious as some competitors.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 featured a 10.25-inch infotainment screen controlled by a rotary controller and buttons. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with higher trims offering wireless phone charging and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. The interface required adjustment but was straightforward once familiar. The system's graphics were plain, but the CX-50 catered to buyers seeking simplicity in tech.

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. It included Google Built-in and Alexa Built-in, along with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the Google Assistant struggled with voice prompts, making Apple CarPlay and Siri more reliable. The Aviator's 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D sound system was impressive, and the head-up display provided valuable information.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 earned a 2023 Top Safety Pick from the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention. It offered standard driver-assist features like automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring, with optional features like a 360-degree camera system. NHTSA ratings were incomplete, but the CX-50 received a five-star frontal crash-test rating.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator came with Lincoln Co-Pilot360 Drive 2.0, featuring advanced driver assistance systems like active blind-spot monitoring and evasive steering assist. BlueCruise, a hands-free driving assistance system, was standard, offering a proactive approach to driver control. The Aviator received five-star NHTSA ratings and Good IIHS ratings, indicating strong safety performance.