2020 Acura MDX vs 2021 Lincoln Aviator

The 2020 Acura MDX was a well-designed crossover SUV, though its styling was not particularly groundbreaking or attention-grabbing. It blended seamlessly into its surroundings, offering a sense of understated elegance without drawing too much attention. The MDX featured Acura's signature Jewel Eye LED headlights, which added a touch of sophistication to its front end. These headlights, with their five LED elements per side, flanked a trapezoidal grille that anchored the vehicle's expressive face. The MDX's sleek and low-slung profile, combined with flawless paint and chrome, contributed to its overall appeal. Inside, the MDX boasted a modern and simple design, with a center stack highlighted by twin infotainment screens and a high-quality fit and finish that gave it a solid and well-built feel.

In contrast, the 2021 Lincoln Aviator embraced a distinct design language that set it apart from its competitors. The Aviator's sharp lines and generous use of chrome gave it a striking appearance, reminiscent of the larger Navigator. Inside, the Aviator's cabin exuded comfort and warmth, with soft-touch materials and chrome accents. The center console elegantly rose to meet the standard 10.1-inch touchscreen, which dominated the dash. The Aviator's unique piano button shifter added a touch of class, while soothing chimes replaced typical alerts, enhancing the overall luxury experience. The Aviator offered various trims, each with its own set of features, from the Standard trim with synthetic leather upholstery to the Black Label Grand Touring with nearly every optional feature as standard equipment.

The 2020 Acura MDX offered two powertrain options: a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, and a Sport Hybrid version with a 3.0-liter V6 and three electric motors, delivering a combined 321 horsepower and 289 pound-feet of torque. The MDX's Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system enhanced its performance, providing nimble handling and impressive cornering capabilities. The torque-vectoring technology in the SH-AWD system directed power to the outside wheel during cornering, resulting in improved handling and a smooth driving experience. The MDX's four-wheel independent suspension further contributed to its comfortable ride, making it a reliable companion for long journeys.

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator, on the other hand, came equipped with a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, producing 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Grand Touring and Grand Touring Black Label trims featured a plug-in hybrid configuration, boosting output to 494 horsepower and 630 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid powertrain offered brisk acceleration, while the conventional powertrain provided robust performance. The Aviator's drive mode selector allowed drivers to choose between modes like "Excite" and "Conserve," enhancing its versatility. However, the Aviator's long wheelbase and noticeable body roll in corners made it better suited for highways and less agile in city driving.

The 2020 Acura MDX provided practical interior space, with sliding and reclining second-row seats for easy access to the third row. It offered 15.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 43.4 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a total of 90.9 cubic feet with all rear seats down. The MDX featured a flexible center console, tri-zone climate control, and ample storage options, making it a stylish alternative to minivans for families.

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator offered 18.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 41.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a total of 77.7 cubic feet with all rear seats down. The Aviator's second-row captain's chairs and digital control panel added to its appeal, while power-button door releases raised concerns about functionality in case of a battery failure. The Aviator's power liftgate and hands-free power liftgate options further enhanced its practicality.

The 2020 Acura MDX featured a range of technology options, with the base model offering standard features like Siri Eyes Free, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an eight-speaker audio system. The Technology Package added navigation, rain-sensing wipers, and a premium audio system, while the Advance Package included additional tech features like a surround-view camera and heated/ventilated seats. The Entertainment Package offered a rear entertainment system with a large screen and wireless headphones.

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator came standard with a 10.1-inch touchscreen running the Sync 3 infotainment system, offering a user-friendly interface and seamless integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Aviator's digital instrument panel and optional head-up display provided clear and crisp graphics. The intuitive layout and redundant controls in the center stack enhanced the overall user experience.

The 2020 Acura MDX came equipped with AcuraWatch, a suite of safety features including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. The Technology Package added blind-spot monitoring, while the Advance Package included a surround-view camera. The MDX's ACE Body Structure contributed to its safety, earning it high ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator featured the Lincoln Co-Pilot 360 package, offering standard safety features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Co-Pilot 360 Plus package added reverse automatic braking and adaptive cruise control. The Aviator received top safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, earning a Top Safety Pick accolade.