2025 Lincoln Aviator vs 2025 Mazda CX-5

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator, built on a rear-wheel-drive platform shared with the Ford Explorer, boasted classic design proportions. Its blunt nose, short front overhang, and appealing dash-to-axle ratio contributed to its sports wagon-like allure, despite being an SUV. However, the 2025 styling updates made it appear 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 the overwhelming screens found in other models. The remote keyless entry fob, though, was a letdown due to its cheap plastic construction. In Canada, the Aviator was available in Premiere and Reserve trims, with prices ranging from $79,595 to $81,695, including destination charges. Our test vehicle, in Reserve trim, featured several option packages, bringing its MSRP to $96,295.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 stood out in the small SUV class with its graceful curves and timeless design, making it look like an entry-level luxury SUV. Despite not being redesigned since 2017, its styling remained impressive. The interior featured nicer-than-average materials and a layout that balanced traditional and modern elements. While it lacked a massive infotainment touchscreen, the physical buttons and knobs enhanced usability. The CX-5's interior was comparable to last-generation Acura or Lexus models, offering a more special feel than similarly priced crossovers. The design and refinement were commendable, though it fell short in practicality and space compared to some rivals.

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, Conserve, Normal, Slippery, and Deep Conditions. The optional adaptive air suspension firmed up in Excite mode, but the Aviator's mission was more about comfort than excitement. The V6 provided ample power for acceleration and passing, though fuel economy was a concern, with an observed 13.3 L/100 km on a mountainous testing loop. The Aviator's sightlines were clear, aided by thin windshield pillars and large side mirrors. However, the ride quality suffered on rough roads due to the heavy 22-inch wheels and thin tires. The adaptive Air Glide suspension excelled at maintaining composure, but the Aviator's driving character didn't encourage spirited driving.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options: a 2.5-litre four-cylinder with 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged version with 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, and AWD was standard. The base engine provided adequate power, while the Turbo model offered quicker acceleration. The CX-5's sporty driving dynamics and sure-footedness on winding roads made it more entertaining than its competitors. The firmer ride quality was noticeable but not intrusive, and the quiet cabin reduced fatigue on longer journeys.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator's Perfect Position front seats offered exceptional comfort with 30-way adjustability, heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The second-row captain's chairs were roomy and supportive, though lacking massage features. The third-row seats were less accommodating for adults, with limited legroom and low cushions. Storage space was excellent, with a smartphone charging pad, cupholders, and a sizeable bin in the centre console. The Aviator provided 466 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,131 litres with the seats folded down, and a maximum of 2,149 litres.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5's interior design and refinement were commendable, but it fell short in practicality and space compared to rivals. Rear headroom was sufficient, but the Toyota RAV4 and Kia Sportage offered more. The CX-5 excelled in rear legroom, though the Honda CR-V and Kia Sportage provided more space. Cargo capacity was 871 litres behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,680 litres with the seats folded. The front seats featured moderately sized cupholders and a deep centre armrest bin. The infotainment system was easy to operate with a dial, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available.

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, 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. The Aviator's head-up display offered a widescreen presentation of data, including lane departure warnings and blind-spot alerts.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 came with a 10.25-inch infotainment display controlled via a dial on the centre console. The dial allowed for easy operation while driving, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto could be controlled via the touchscreen or dial. The Premium Plus trim added a wireless charging pad and a head-up display. The base trim featured a four-speaker audio system, while the Signature model gained a 10-speaker Bose premium system. Remote vehicle monitoring and control were available through a smartphone app.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator included the Lincoln Co-Pilot360 Drive 2.0 suite of advanced driver assistance systems, featuring active blind-spot monitoring, intersection assist, evasive steering assist, and reverse braking assist. Adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assist were standard, and BlueCruise offered hands-free driving assistance on approved highways. The Aviator earned five-star ratings from the NHTSA, with a four-star rating for rollover resistance, and Good ratings from the IIHS.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 received five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for rollover protection, which earned four stars. The IIHS rated its standard collision avoidance system, Smart City Brake Support Front, as Poor. All trims included forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. The GT trim added adaptive headlights and a head-up display, while the Turbo Signature trim featured a 360-degree camera and parking sensors.