2025 Lincoln Aviator vs 2025 Acura MDX

Trim Levels

The Lincoln Aviator is available in several trims: Premiere, Reserve, and Black Label. Each trim level enhances luxury and technology, with the Black Label offering exclusive themes and premium materials.

The Acura MDX offers trims including Standard, Technology Package, A-Spec Package, Advance Package, and Type S. Each trim provides a unique blend of luxury and performance features, with higher trims focusing on enhanced comfort and technology.

Both SUVs present a range of trims to suit varying customer needs, with the Aviator emphasizing American luxury and the MDX showcasing Japanese precision and reliability.

Engine and Transmission

The Lincoln Aviator is powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine producing 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.

The Acura MDX comes standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Type S variant features a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 producing 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque.

The Aviator offers a more powerful standard engine, while the MDX provides a range of engines catering to different performance preferences.

Performance

The Aviator's twin-turbo V6 delivers robust acceleration and a smooth, responsive ride.

The MDX's standard engine offers adequate performance for daily driving, while the Type S variant provides stronger acceleration and a more engaging driving experience.

For those seeking a spirited and luxurious driving experience, the Aviator's standard engine outpaces the MDX's base engine, while the MDX's Type S variant offers competitive performance.

Fuel Economy

The Aviator achieves approximately 17 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway with its standard engine.

The MDX provides around 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway with its base engine, offering better fuel economy in standard configurations.

The MDX holds an advantage in fuel efficiency, appealing to those prioritizing economy in their luxury SUV.

Towing Capacity

The Lincoln Aviator boasts a maximum towing capacity of up to 5,600 pounds, making it suitable for hauling trailers and recreational equipment.

The Acura MDX offers a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.

The Aviator's higher towing capacity provides added versatility for those with greater towing needs.

Interior Design

The Aviator's interior exudes luxury, featuring high-quality materials, available 30-way power-adjustable front seats with massage functions, and a serene cabin ambiance.

The MDX's interior focuses on modern design, with a clean, elegant layout, high-quality materials, and a user-friendly infotainment system.

For those seeking a more luxurious and customizable interior, the Aviator holds a distinct advantage, while the MDX appeals to those who appreciate minimalist design.

Cargo Space

The Aviator provides 18.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 77.7 cubic feet with both rear rows folded.

The MDX offers slightly more space, with 18.1 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 95 cubic feet with the seats folded flat.

The MDX offers more cargo space, making it a better option for those requiring ample storage capacity.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The Aviator features a 13.2-inch touchscreen running the SYNC 4 system, offering seamless integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with an available Revel Ultima 3D audio system for an immersive listening experience.

The MDX is equipped with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, complemented by an available ELS Studio premium sound system for high-quality audio.

Both vehicles provide advanced infotainment systems, with the Aviator offering a larger screen and the MDX delivering a high-quality audio experience.

Technology

The Aviator comes standard with Lincoln Co-Pilot360, a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies that includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and a 360-degree camera system. Higher trims offer Co-Pilot360 Plus, which adds features like Active Park Assist Plus and Traffic Jam Assist for enhanced convenience.

The MDX includes AcuraWatch, which offers advanced safety and driver-assistance features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, forward collision warning, and road departure mitigation. Higher trims add traffic jam assist and low-speed braking control.

Both SUVs are technologically advanced, but the Aviator’s broader suite of optional features provides added value, particularly in higher trims.

Safety

Both the Lincoln Aviator and Acura MDX come equipped with extensive safety features, including automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist. The Aviator enhances safety with additional features like evasive steering assist and post-collision braking, while the MDX focuses on road departure mitigation and traffic jam assist.

Both vehicles are designed with family safety in mind and are expected to perform well in crash tests.

Warranty

The Lincoln Aviator offers a 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty and a 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty, along with complimentary maintenance for the first year.

The Acura MDX provides a similar 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty and a 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty. However, Acura does not include complimentary maintenance as standard.

While both manufacturers offer competitive warranties, Lincoln’s inclusion of complimentary maintenance gives it a slight edge in long-term value.

Conclusion

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator and 2025 Acura MDX each offer compelling features that cater to different buyer priorities. The Aviator excels in performance, luxury, and towing capacity, making it the ideal choice for buyers seeking a high-end driving experience with premium finishes and advanced technology. Its Black Label trims and plug-in hybrid Grand Touring variant provide additional options for those prioritizing opulence or electrified efficiency.

The Acura MDX, with its competitive pricing, larger cargo capacity, and fuel efficiency, is an excellent choice for families and drivers seeking a reliable and well-rounded luxury SUV. The Type S trim provides a more performance-focused option for those looking for added excitement behind the wheel.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to your needs and preferences. The Aviator is the better choice for those prioritizing luxury, power, and advanced features, while the MDX offers a compelling alternative for buyers focused on practicality, value, and fuel efficiency. Test-driving both models is the best way to determine which SUV aligns with your lifestyle and preferences.