2025 Lincoln Aviator vs 2026 Lexus TX

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 tapered roofline compromised third-row passenger space. The styling updates for 2025, particularly with the optional Jet Appearance Package, were seen as less elegant and more generic. 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 criticized for its cheap plastic construction, contrasting with the otherwise luxurious feel.

The 2026 Lexus TX presented a bold exterior with a large grille reminiscent of the older spindle design, complemented by sharp bi-LED headlights and rear LED lighting spanning the vehicle's width. The interior offered three colour options and ambient lighting, though material quality fell short of luxury standards, with basic plastics evident. Redesigned door handles, which reacted to pressure rather than pulling out, were seen as an unnecessary innovation. Despite these quirks, the TX maintained a functional and spacious interior, with a focus on practicality over opulence.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator was powered by a robust twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, delivering 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque through a 10-speed automatic transmission to all four wheels. It offered various driving modes, including Excite, Conserve, Normal, Slippery, and Deep Conditions, with an optional adaptive air suspension enhancing the ride in Excite mode. Despite its power, the Aviator was not particularly thrilling to drive, focusing instead on comfort and composure. Fuel economy was a concern, with observed consumption at 13.3 L/100 km, higher than the official rating. The Aviator excelled in visibility and offered a quiet cabin, though the ride quality suffered on rough surfaces due to the large 22-inch wheels.

The 2026 Lexus TX 350 featured a 275-horsepower 2.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the TX 500h hybrid variant boosted output to 366 hp. The gas model used an eight-speed automatic transmission, and the hybrid employed a six-speed automatic. Both models offered all-wheel drive, with the TX 500h utilizing Lexus’s Direct4 AWD system. Drive modes included Normal, Eco, and Sport, with Sport mode enhancing throttle response. The TX prioritized comfort over sportiness, with the 500h offering adaptive suspension and rear steering for improved handling.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator boasted luxurious Perfect Position front seats with 30-way adjustability, heating, ventilation, and massage functions. Second-row captain’s chairs provided comfort, though the third-row seats were less accommodating for adults. Storage was ample, with a well-organized centre console and deep door pockets. Cargo space was generous, offering 466 litres behind the third row and expanding to 2,149 litres with all seats folded.

The 2026 Lexus TX offered three-zone automatic climate control, heated and cooled front seats, and heated second-row seats. The third row was spacious, with a recline function and ample headroom. Access to the third row was facilitated by a one-touch button, though folding the second row flat was cumbersome. The front seats lacked thigh support, but the heating function was effective. Cargo space was impressive, with 572 litres available behind the third row, expanding to 2,747 litres with all seats folded.

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. While the system supported Google Built-in and Alexa Built-in, voice recognition was unreliable in the test vehicle. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto worked seamlessly, and the 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D sound system delivered excellent audio quality. The head-up display provided valuable driving information, enhancing safety and convenience.

The 2026 Lexus TX included a 14-inch touchscreen, though some features lacked refinement, such as the inability to manually input satellite radio stations. Steering wheel controls were multifunctional but confusing, with functions displayed on the gauge cluster or head-up display. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, though connectivity issues arose. The TX offered a back-up camera with a bird’s-eye view and an Advanced Park system for automated parking. Multiple USB ports and wireless charging ensured devices remained powered.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator came equipped with Lincoln Co-Pilot360 Drive 2.0, featuring advanced driver assistance systems like active blind-spot monitoring, intersection assist, and evasive steering assist. BlueCruise, a hands-free driving assistance system, was standard, offering a proactive approach to driver control. The Aviator received top safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, confirming its status as a safe luxury SUV.

The 2026 Lexus TX included Safety System+ 3.0, with features like forward collision warning, lane tracing assist, and traffic sign recognition. Adaptive cruise control was effective, though setup was challenging. The TX received five-star crash safety ratings from NHTSA and mixed ratings from IIHS, indicating solid safety credentials.