2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs 2026 Lincoln Aviator

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class retained its iconic boxy design, a nod to its origins as the utilitarian "G-Wagen" from 1979. Despite subtle styling updates like a new grille and bumpers, the G-Class maintained its traditional features, including a flat hood, prominent corner lights, and robust doors that clacked loudly when locked. Functional changes included a repositioned rearview camera and new A-pillar trim, while the Manufaktur program offered extensive customization options. Inside, the G-Class boasted a luxurious interior with large round vents, ambient lighting, and metallic trim, complemented by prominent dashboard switches for differential locks and a sportier AMG steering wheel.

The 2026 Lincoln Aviator, while based on the Ford Explorer, offered a premium feel with its elegant exterior design, featuring a reverse-horseshoe grille, LED headlights, and sculpted flanks. The interior was the Aviator's highlight, with synthetic leather upholstery in the base trim and leather options in the Reserve trim. The Black Label trim, not available in Canada, added further luxury. The Aviator's cabin was designed for comfort, with power-adjustable seats, heated and ventilated options, and a touchscreen for second-row passengers. However, the third row was less accommodating for adults, suitable only for short trips.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class offered a range of powertrains, including the gasoline G 550 and AMG G 63 models, alongside the all-electric G 580. The G 550 featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine with 443 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque, while the AMG G 63 retained its 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, delivering 577 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. Both models included a mild-hybrid system and nine-speed automatic transmissions with permanent 4WD. The G 550 accelerated from zero to 96 km/h in 5.3 seconds, while the G 63 achieved it in 4.2 seconds. The AMG G 63 also introduced the AMG Active Ride Control suspension system, enhancing both off-road and on-road dynamics.

The 2026 Lincoln Aviator prioritized passenger comfort with a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine producing 383 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The Aviator accelerated to 100 km/h in under six seconds, with smooth power delivery and transmission shifts. The suspension system, featuring adaptive dampers, provided a forgiving ride, though it exhibited body lean in corners. The optional Air Glide suspension offered additional control and ground clearance adjustments. The Aviator also came with a Class III trailer tow package, capable of towing up to 2,268 kilograms.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, while not small, was more compact than other luxury SUVs, offering a tall passenger compartment with ample headroom but limited legroom. Its traditional design impacted cargo space, with 640 litres available behind the rear seats. The G-Class had a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms, and its design provided good forward visibility and easier parking compared to larger rivals.

The 2026 Lincoln Aviator featured a well-appointed interior with power-adjustable seats, heated and ventilated options, and tri-zone climate control. The Reserve trim added further comfort with quad-zone climate control and massaging front seats. The Aviator accommodated up to seven passengers, though the third row was less suitable for adults. Cargo space was generous, with 467 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,149 litres with the second row folded down.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class was equipped with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and dual 12.3-inch screens. The system included off-road menus, augmented reality navigation, and voice recognition. A Burmester 3D surround sound system and rear-seat entertainment were also expected to be standard.

The 2026 Lincoln Aviator's tech suite included a 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster, a 13.2-inch infotainment touchscreen, and a second-row touchscreen. The Lincoln Digital Experience offered access to apps like Google Assistant, along with features like a 5G Wi-Fi hotspot, remote start, and a 14-speaker audio system. The Reserve trim added ambient lighting and a Revel audio system.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class lacked safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA but included standard driver-assistance features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The Pre-Safe system prepared the vehicle for imminent crashes, and new features included route-based speed adaptation and automated lane centring.

The 2026 Lincoln Aviator came with standard safety features as part of the Lincoln Co-Pilot360 Drive 2.0 system, including forward collision warning, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Aviator performed well in crash tests, earning top scores from NHTSA and IIHS, though it lacked a rating for its headlights.