2025 Lincoln Aviator vs 2025 Buick Enclave

Trim Levels

The Lincoln Aviator is available in several trims: Standard, Reserve, Grand Touring (a plug-in hybrid), and Black Label. Each trim level enhances luxury and technology, with the Black Label offering exclusive themes and premium materials.

The Buick Enclave comes in three trims: Essence, Premium, and Avenir. The Avenir trim represents the pinnacle of luxury within the Enclave lineup, featuring advanced amenities and refined interior touches.

Both SUVs offer a range of trims to cater to different preferences, with the Aviator emphasizing a higher degree of customization and luxury, especially in its upper trims.

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 Grand Touring trim adds a plug-in hybrid system, boosting output to 494 horsepower and 630 lb-ft of torque.

The Buick Enclave features a 3.6-liter V6 engine delivering 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission.

The Aviator offers more robust engine options, appealing to those seeking higher performance and power.

Performance

The Aviator's twin-turbo V6 provides strong acceleration and a smooth driving experience. The Grand Touring's plug-in hybrid powertrain offers additional power and an electric-only driving mode for improved efficiency.

The Enclave's V6 engine delivers adequate performance for daily driving, with a focus on comfort and ease of handling. However, it lacks the dynamic performance and hybrid option available in the Aviator.

For drivers prioritizing performance and versatility, the Aviator stands out as the more compelling choice.

Fuel Economy

The Aviator achieves an estimated 17 mpg city / 24 mpg highway with its standard engine. The Grand Touring plug-in hybrid variant offers improved efficiency, with an electric-only range and higher combined MPGe.

The Enclave provides approximately 18 mpg city / 26 mpg highway, offering slightly better fuel economy in standard configurations but lacking a hybrid option.

Drivers seeking hybrid efficiency and electric driving capabilities may find the Aviator's Grand Touring model appealing.

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 Buick Enclave 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 Black Label trim offers exclusive themes with bespoke design elements.

The Enclave's interior focuses on comfort and practicality, with spacious seating and user-friendly controls. The Avenir trim adds upscale materials and finishes, enhancing the overall feel.

For those seeking a more luxurious and customizable interior, the Aviator holds a distinct advantage.

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 Enclave offers more generous cargo capacity, with 22.9 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 97.6 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded.

The Enclave's larger cargo space makes it a practical choice for families requiring ample storage.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The Aviator features a 10.1-inch touchscreen with the SYNC 3 system, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an available Revel Ultima 3D audio system for an immersive experience.

The Enclave comes with an 8-inch touchscreen supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with an available Bose premium audio system.

Both vehicles offer modern infotainment systems, though the Aviator provides a larger screen and more advanced audio options.

Technology

The Aviator includes Lincoln Co-Pilot360, a suite of driver-assistance features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a 360-degree camera. The Grand Touring trim adds adaptive suspension and drive modes.

The Enclave offers safety features like forward collision alert, lane departure warning, and available adaptive cruise control. However, some advanced features are limited to higher trims.

The Aviator's comprehensive technology suite provides a more extensive array of standard and available features.

Safety

Both the Aviator and Enclave come equipped with standard safety features, including multiple airbags, stability control, and advanced braking systems. The Aviator offers additional features with its Co-Pilot360 Plus suite, while the Enclave includes active safety technologies such as forward collision warning and blind-spot monitoring.

NHTSA/IIHS Ratings

As of now, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) have not released official safety ratings for the 2025 Lincoln Aviator and 2025 Buick Enclave. Historically, both models have performed well in crash tests and safety evaluations, with their extensive driver-assistance features contributing to high safety marks. The Aviator’s inclusion of Lincoln Co-Pilot360 and the Enclave’s active safety suite further enhance their safety credentials.

Warranty

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

The Buick Enclave provides a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Buick also includes a corrosion warranty and roadside assistance during the powertrain warranty period but does not offer complimentary maintenance as standard.

Lincoln’s longer warranty coverage and included maintenance give it an edge for those seeking long-term value and peace of mind.

Conclusion

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator and the 2025 Buick Enclave cater to different segments of the luxury midsize SUV market. The Aviator excels in performance, luxury, and technology, making it the ideal choice for buyers seeking a high-end driving experience with optional hybrid efficiency and exceptional towing capacity. Its interior craftsmanship and advanced features, especially in the Black Label trims, elevate it above many competitors.

The Buick Enclave, with its lower starting price, larger cargo capacity, and emphasis on practicality, appeals to families and those looking for a well-rounded, budget-friendly luxury SUV. While it delivers comfort and solid performance, it lacks the premium features and powertrain versatility of the Aviator.

Ultimately, the choice comes down to priorities. If you’re focused on luxury, power, and advanced technology, the Aviator is the superior option. For those prioritizing affordability and spaciousness, the Enclave is a compelling alternative. Test-driving both models will help clarify which SUV better aligns with your lifestyle and needs.