2025 Lincoln Aviator vs 2025 BMW X3

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator, built on a rear-wheel-drive platform shared with the Ford Explorer, showcased classic design proportions. Its blunt nose, short front overhang, and appealing dash-to-axle ratio contributed to its sports wagon-like appearance, though the 2025 styling updates were seen as less elegant. The interior, accessed through doors with electronic releases, offered a plush, traditional design with advanced technology subtly integrated. However, the remote keyless entry fob was criticized for its cheap feel, contrasting with the Aviator's otherwise luxurious presentation. In Canada, the Aviator was available in Premiere and Reserve trims, with our test vehicle in Reserve trim priced at $96,295, including options like the Jet Appearance and Dynamic Handling packages.

The 2025 BMW X3, redesigned for a more seductive appearance, featured a long hood and athletic proportions. The test model's Arctic Race Blue paint and 21-inch wheels emphasized its sporty stance. Inside, the X3 offered a spacious cabin with a simple dashboard and a BMW Curved Display. While the front seats were comfortable with Veganza artificial leather, the rear seats were less so, particularly for taller passengers. The cargo area was practical, with 892 litres of space and thoughtful storage solutions. The X3 was available in 30 xDrive and M50 xDrive models, with our test vehicle priced at $72,779, including options like the M Sport and Premium packages.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator was powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, delivering 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque through a 10-speed automatic transmission. It offered various driving modes, including Excite and Normal, with an optional adaptive air suspension for improved handling. Despite its power, the Aviator was not particularly exciting to drive, focusing instead on comfort and composure. The fuel economy was rated at 11.9 L/100 km, but our test observed 13.3 L/100 km. The Aviator provided clear sightlines and a quiet cabin, though the ride quality suffered on rough roads due to its large wheels and tires.

The 2025 BMW X3 30 xDrive featured a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. Despite its modest power, the X3 accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.3 seconds, aided by an eight-speed automatic transmission and xDrive AWD. The engine's broad power curve and mild-hybrid system enhanced responsiveness and fuel efficiency, though our test recorded 11.7 L/100 km. The M Sport package added a sport-tuned suspension and performance tires, resulting in a firm ride but rewarding handling on twisty roads. The X3 was a delight to drive, offering a balance of performance and practicality.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator's interior offered exceptional comfort with its Perfect Position front seats, adjustable in 30 ways with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The second-row captain's chairs were also comfortable, though the third-row seats were less accommodating for adults. The Aviator provided excellent storage solutions, including a large centre console and deep door pockets. With the third-row seats in use, cargo space was 466 litres, expanding to 1,131 litres with the seats folded, and a maximum of 2,149 litres.

The 2025 BMW X3's cabin felt spacious, with a simple dashboard and a BMW Curved Display. The front seats were comfortable, featuring power adjustment and Veganza artificial leather, while the rear seats were less so for taller passengers. The cargo area offered 892 litres of space, with practical storage solutions like a grocery bag hook and a temporary spare tire under the load floor. The 40/20/40 split-folding rear seat allowed for flexible cargo and passenger arrangements.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator featured a 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster and a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system powered by Lincoln Digital Experience. It supported Google Built-in, Alexa Built-in, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the Google Assistant was unresponsive in our test vehicle, though Apple CarPlay worked well. The Aviator also offered a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D sound system and an impressive head-up display.

The 2025 BMW X3's infotainment system, powered by iDrive 9, offered a Quick Select user experience and the ability to create profiles via the MyBMW app. However, our test vehicle experienced issues with profile access and system responsiveness. The navigation system with augmented video worked well, and wireless Apple CarPlay was intuitive and reliable. Despite the challenges, the X3's infotainment system showed potential for improvement.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator came equipped with Lincoln Co-Pilot360 Drive 2.0, offering features like active blind-spot monitoring, intersection assist, and reverse braking assist. BlueCruise, a hands-free driving assistance system, was standard, providing proactive driver control notifications. The Aviator earned five-star ratings from the NHTSA and Good ratings from the IIHS, indicating strong safety performance.

The 2025 BMW X3 offered standard safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Premium Package added adaptive cruise control and Steering Assistant, while the Parking Assistant Professional Package offered semi-automated parking tech. The X3 earned a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with four-star ratings in frontal-impact crash tests.