2025 Lincoln Aviator vs 2025 Cadillac XT6
2025 Lincoln Aviator vs. 2025 Cadillac XT6: A Comprehensive Comparison
In the luxury midsize SUV segment, the 2025 Lincoln Aviator and the 2025 Cadillac XT6 vie for attention with their unique blends of performance, luxury, and technology. This detailed comparison examines key areas such as pricing, trim levels, performance, and safety to help prospective buyers decide which SUV best suits their needs.
Pricing and MSRP
The 2025 Lincoln Aviator starts at approximately $54,500 for the base trim, with higher trims like the Black Label Grand Touring priced over $80,000. Lincoln positions the Aviator as a bridge between traditional luxury and near-flagship features, offering various trims to cater to a range of budgets.
The 2025 Cadillac XT6 begins at a more accessible MSRP of $50,595 for the Luxury trim, with the Premium Luxury and Sport trims climbing into the mid-$60,000s. Cadillac emphasizes affordability within the luxury midsize SUV market, making the XT6 a strong contender for budget-conscious buyers.
While the XT6 offers a lower entry price, the Aviator’s top trims deliver greater luxury and advanced features for those willing to invest more.
Trim Levels
The Lincoln Aviator is offered in Standard, Reserve, Grand Touring (PHEV), and Black Label trims. The Black Label trims stand out with exclusive themes, premium materials, and concierge services, while the Grand Touring adds plug-in hybrid performance.
The Cadillac XT6 comes in Luxury, Premium Luxury, and Sport trims. The Premium Luxury trim enhances comfort and technology, while the Sport trim delivers a performance-oriented look with adaptive suspension.
Lincoln’s trim structure offers a more premium experience, particularly in the upper tiers, while Cadillac provides a simpler lineup emphasizing practicality.
Engine and Transmission
The Lincoln Aviator features 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, increasing output to 494 horsepower and 630 lb-ft of torque.
The Cadillac XT6 comes standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivering 237 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Higher trims upgrade to a 3.6-liter V6 with 310 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque, both mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission.
The Aviator offers significantly more power and an advanced hybrid option, appealing to drivers who prioritize performance.
Performance
The Aviator’s twin-turbocharged V6 provides robust acceleration and a smooth, responsive ride. The Grand Touring’s plug-in hybrid powertrain adds all-electric capability for short trips, further enhancing its appeal.
The XT6’s V6 engine offers decent performance, but it lacks the outright power and refinement of the Aviator’s drivetrain. The Sport trim adds an adaptive suspension for improved handling, but the XT6 remains less dynamic overall.
For those seeking a spirited and luxurious driving experience, the Aviator outpaces the XT6.
Fuel Economy
The Aviator’s twin-turbo V6 achieves an estimated 18 mpg city/26 mpg highway, while the Grand Touring plug-in hybrid boosts efficiency with an all-electric range of around 21 miles and a combined rating of 56 MPGe.
The XT6’s 2.0-liter turbocharged engine offers 21 mpg city/27 mpg highway, and the V6 achieves 19 mpg city/26 mpg highway. The XT6 is marginally more efficient in its base form, but it lacks the hybrid option available in the Aviator.
Drivers seeking hybrid efficiency and electric range will find the Aviator Grand Touring compelling.
Towing
The Lincoln Aviator boasts a towing capacity of up to 6,700 pounds with the twin-turbo V6, or 5,600 pounds in the Grand Touring hybrid trim.
The Cadillac XT6 is rated to tow up to 4,000 pounds when equipped with the V6 engine and the necessary towing package.
The Aviator’s superior towing capability makes it the better choice for those needing to haul heavier loads.
Interior Design
The Aviator’s interior is a standout, featuring high-quality materials, a sleek design, and available 30-way power-adjustable front seats with massage functions. The Black Label trims elevate luxury with exclusive themes like Flight and Chalet, combining bespoke craftsmanship with advanced technology.
The XT6’s cabin is comfortable and functional but leans more toward practicality than luxury. Higher trims introduce nicer materials and amenities, but the overall design doesn’t match the Aviator’s refinement.
For buyers seeking an upscale and sophisticated interior, the Aviator leads the way.
Cargo Space
The Aviator offers 18.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 77.7 cubic feet with all rear seats folded.
The XT6 provides slightly more space, with 12.6 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 78.7 cubic feet with the seats folded flat.
While the XT6 edges out in overall cargo capacity, the Aviator’s versatile design and thoughtful storage solutions remain competitive.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Aviator is equipped with a 12.3-inch touchscreen running the SYNC 4 system, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and available premium Revel audio systems. An optional 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D system offers an unparalleled listening experience.
The XT6 includes an 8-inch touchscreen with Cadillac’s user-friendly interface, also supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A Bose Performance Series sound system is available on higher trims.
The Aviator’s larger screen and premium audio options elevate its infotainment package above the XT6.
Technology
The Aviator features Lincoln Co-Pilot360, a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies including adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assist, and a 360-degree camera system. Optional Co-Pilot360 Plus adds enhanced features like Active Park Assist Plus and Traffic Jam Assist.
The XT6 offers Cadillac’s Super Cruise on higher trims, along with adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. While Super Cruise provides semi-autonomous driving, the overall technology suite is less comprehensive than Lincoln’s offering.
The Aviator delivers a broader range of advanced driver-assistance features, making it more appealing to tech-savvy buyers.
Safety
Both SUVs are equipped with extensive safety features, including automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Aviator adds additional features with its Co-Pilot360 Plus suite, while the XT6 offers Cadillac-exclusive features like the Safety Alert Seat.
NHTSA/IIHS Ratings
While official 2025 ratings are pending, both the Aviator and XT6 have received high marks in previous NHTSA and IIHS evaluations, with strong performances in crash tests and safety technology assessments.
Warranty
The Lincoln Aviator includes 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 Cadillac XT6 offers a similar 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty and a 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty, but does not include complimentary maintenance.
Lincoln’s additional maintenance coverage provides extra value for Aviator owners.
Conclusion
The 2025 Lincoln Aviator and 2025 Cadillac XT6 both bring competitive features to the luxury midsize SUV market, but they cater to different buyer priorities. The Aviator excels in performance, luxury, and technology, offering a more refined driving experience and advanced options like the plug-in hybrid powertrain. The XT6 stands out for its affordability and practicality, making it a solid choice for families seeking a well-rounded SUV.
For buyers prioritizing power, towing capacity, and luxury features, the Aviator is the clear choice. The XT6 appeals to those looking for a lower price point and straightforward functionality. Test-driving both vehicles will help determine which SUV best fits your lifestyle and needs.
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