2025 Nissan Armada vs 2025 Lincoln Aviator

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 tweaked 2025 styling seemed 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 screen-heavy approach of other Lincoln models. However, the remote keyless entry fob was a letdown, made of cheap plastic and oversized, though this might encourage the use of the Aviator’s Phone as a Key technology.

In contrast, the 2025 Nissan Armada featured a strikingly high beltline and a large, imposing grille that set it apart from its predecessor. The third-generation Armada appeared larger and more business-like, with a parallel beltline and distinctive D-pillar design. The PRO-4X trim added rugged character with unique design elements like Lava Red accents and all-terrain tires. The Armada’s new C-shaped LED lighting signature and fashionable rear lightbar enhanced its modern look. Inside, the Armada offered a premium feel, with leather seats and a padded centre console, especially in the Platinum Reserve trim, which featured luxurious touches like quilting and a Chestnut with Rye theme.

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 Conserve, and an optional adaptive air suspension. Despite its power, the Aviator wasn’t particularly exciting to drive, focusing instead on providing a composed and calming cruising experience. The Aviator’s fuel economy was rated at 11.9 L/100 km in combined driving, though real-world testing showed a less impressive 13.3 L/100 km. The SUV offered clear sightlines and a 360-degree camera view for urban driving, but its ride quality suffered on rough roads due to the heavy 22-inch wheels and thin tires.

The 2025 Nissan Armada introduced a new 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 engine, inspired by the GT-R, producing 425 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. It featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard Intelligent 4WD in Canada. The Armada PRO-4X trim included off-road enhancements like an electronic locking rear differential and skid plates. The adaptive electronic air suspension provided a 33-degree approach angle and 34.4 cm of ground clearance. The Armada’s eight selectable drive modes, including Sand and Mud/Rut, catered to various terrains. It could tow up to 3,855 kg and offered trailer sway control and other towing aids. On-road, the Armada’s electric power steering provided a nice sense of engagement, while off-road, the adaptive air suspension excelled in challenging conditions.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator offered luxurious comfort with its Perfect Position front seats, featuring 30-way adjustability, heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The second-row captain’s chairs were roomy and supportive, though the third-row seats were less accommodating for adults. The Aviator provided excellent storage space, with a centre console featuring a smartphone charging pad and deep door panel storage pockets. Cargo space was generous, with 466 litres behind the third row and a maximum capacity of 2,149 litres.

The 2025 Nissan Armada featured a push-button transmission, freeing up centre console space for a wireless charging pad. The Platinum Reserve trim offered “Zero Gravity” seats with power adjustments and lumbar support. Heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and other amenities were standard in Canada. The Armada’s third-row seats folded flatter for easier loading, increasing cargo volume to 577 litres behind the third row and 2,750 litres behind the front row. The Armada’s headroom and legroom varied depending on the presence of a sunroof, with improvements in third-row legroom.

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 struggled with voice prompts in the test vehicle. The Aviator’s 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D sound system delivered excellent audio quality, and the head-up display provided valuable information.

The 2025 Nissan Armada came with two large screens, 12.3-inch on the SL trim and 14.3-inch on higher trims. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Google Built-In were standard, with Google Maps available on the driver information display. The Platinum Reserve trim included a head-up display. The Armada’s 12-speaker Klipsch Premium Audio System impressed with its sound quality, enhanced by a demo from Klipsch specialists.

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, 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 and Good ratings from the IIHS.

The 2025 Nissan Armada featured Nissan’s ProPILOT Assist suite, with ProPILOT Assist 1.1 on most trims and ProPILOT Assist 2.1 on the Platinum Reserve trim, offering hands-free highway driving assist. Nissan Safety Shield 360 included features like traffic-sign recognition and automatic emergency braking. The Armada’s 3D Around View Monitor and Invisible Hood View enhanced visibility, and the Intelligent Around-View camera proved useful in challenging situations.