2025 Lincoln Aviator vs 2024 Volvo XC90

The 2024 Volvo XC90, available in Canada in B6 and Recharge T8 model series, was a testament to Volvo's commitment to luxury and sustainability. The XC90 B6 featured a turbocharged and supercharged mild-hybrid four-cylinder engine, while the Recharge T8 was a plug-in hybrid offering superior performance and efficiency with an estimated 53 kilometres of electric-only range. Both models came standard with all-wheel drive and were available in Core, Plus, and Ultimate trim levels, with prices ranging from $71,550 to $94,500, excluding destination charges and fees. The Recharge T8 in Ultimate trim, tested with seven-passenger seating, boasted features like massaging front seats, a premium headliner, active air suspension, and a Bowers & Wilkins audio system, culminating in an MSRP of $107,709. The XC90's exterior was characterized by a subdued, earthy paint palette and appealing wheel designs, while the interior, though dated, was adorned with rich materials, including wool-blend upholstery and natural wood trim.

In contrast, 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 was less elegant than before, the Aviator's plush interior exuded a classic architectural sensibility, avoiding the screen-heavy approach of its siblings. The Aviator's remote keyless entry fob was a disappointment, but the Phone as a Key technology and touchpad entry system offered modern convenience. In Canada, the Aviator was available in Premiere and Reserve trims, with prices from $79,595 to $81,695, including destination charges. The Reserve trim, tested with extra-cost Whisper Blue paint and several option packages, carried an MSRP of $96,295. The Reserve 201A package added features like upgraded exterior lighting, 30-way-adjustable front seats with massage, and a 28-speaker Revel Ultima audio system, enhancing the Aviator's appeal.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8 combined an 18.8-kilowatt-hour battery and a 107-kilowatt electric motor with a supercharged and turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque. This power was delivered to all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. The XC90 offered 53 kilometres of electric-only driving in Pure mode, with a hybrid average of 8.9 litres per 100 kilometres. However, during testing, it achieved only 45 kilometres of electric range and 9.6 L/100 km in combined driving. The XC90's performance was lively, with a five-second sprint to 100 km/h in Power mode, but its handling was more luxury-oriented than sporty. The 21-inch wheels affected ride quality, and the aging architecture allowed more cabin noise than expected for a luxury SUV.

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. With driving modes like Excite, Conserve, and Normal, the Aviator's adaptive air suspension firmed up in Excite mode but remained more focused on comfort than excitement. The Aviator's fuel economy was rated at 11.9 litres per 100 kilometres, but testing revealed a less efficient 13.3 L/100 km. The Aviator offered clear sightlines and a 360-degree camera view for urban driving, but its 22-inch wheels and thin tires compromised ride quality on rough surfaces. The adaptive Air Glide suspension excelled at maintaining composure, ensuring the Aviator was a calming cruiser rather than a performance SUV.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8 offered a well-equipped interior with power-adjustable and heated front seats, optional leather upholstery, and a four-zone climate control system. The panoramic glass roof added natural light, while higher trims included features like a heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats, and an integrated booster child seat. The XC90 seated seven, with a tight third-row access for adults, and provided up to 2,426 litres of cargo space with the second-row seat folded.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator's Perfect Position front seats offered 30-way adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage, ensuring exceptional comfort. The second-row captain's chairs were roomy and supportive, while the third-row seat was less accommodating for adults. The Aviator excelled in storage space, with a centre console featuring a smartphone charging pad and deep door panel pockets. With the third-row seat in use, the Aviator offered 466 litres of cargo space, expanding to 2,149 litres with all seats folded.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 featured a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Google Built-in technology, offering Google Maps, Google Play, and Google Assistant. Apple CarPlay and SiriusXM were standard, with optional Harman Kardon or Bowers & Wilkins audio systems. The system was intuitive, though the 12-inch digital instrumentation panel had a learning curve. A head-up display and surround-view camera were available.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator boasted a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system powered by Lincoln Digital Experience, featuring Google Built-in, Alexa Built-in, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the Google Assistant struggled with voice prompts, while Apple CarPlay and Siri worked seamlessly. The Aviator's 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D sound system impressed, and the head-up display provided comprehensive data.