2021 Lincoln Aviator vs 2020 Ford Edge

The 2020 Ford Edge, first introduced in 2006, was based on the same platform as the Ford Fusion sedan, offering a car-like ride and ample cabin space. The second generation, arriving in 2015 and updated in 2019, featured angular headlights and a large trapezoidal grille, giving it a crossover version of the Fusion's look. Inside, the Edge showed signs of aging with a layout unchanged since 2015, despite subtle updates. The center console had small, awkwardly arranged climate and radio controls, and a contemporary rotary shifter. While the cabin quality was decent with soft-touch materials and solid fit-and-finish, the heavy use of hard plastics detracted from the overall feel.

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator, carrying over from its 2020 debut, showcased Lincoln's successful styling, characterized by crisp lines and chrome accents. The interior, distinct from its Ford Explorer counterpart, emphasized comfort and warmth with soft-touch materials and a 10.1-inch touchscreen dominating the dash. The piano button shifter, though unconventional, was sensibly laid out, and the Aviator's soothing chimes added to its luxurious ambiance. The Aviator's trims ranged from Standard to Black Label Grand Touring, each offering progressively more luxurious features, including synthetic leather upholstery, tri-zone climate control, and advanced audio systems.

The 2020 Ford Edge came standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 250 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This engine provided solid low-end acceleration, though it struggled at higher speeds. The Edge's suspension was designed for American roads, offering a smooth yet engaging ride. The performance-oriented Edge ST featured a 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, delivering 335 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque, with standard all-wheel drive. The ST's heavy steering and excellent cornering made it a standout, especially with its Sport mode enhancing throttle response and transmission mapping.

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator's Standard, Reserve, and Black Label trims were equipped with a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6, generating 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque, mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Grand Touring and Grand Touring Black Label trims featured a plug-in hybrid version of this engine, boosting output to 494 horsepower and 630 pound-feet of torque, with a 21-mile electric-only range. The hybrid powertrain offered brisk acceleration and a smooth power delivery, though the Aviator's heft resulted in noticeable body roll in corners. The drive mode selector included unique modes like "Excite" and "Conserve," enhancing the driving experience.

The 2020 Ford Edge excelled in cabin layout, offering a commanding view of the road and ample storage compartments. The second-row seats provided generous head- and legroom without compromising front seat comfort. The Edge offered 39.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 73.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The SEL and Titanium trims featured a hands-free foot-activated power rear liftgate, adding convenience.

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator provided 18.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third-row seats, expandable to 41.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 77.7 cubic feet with all rear seats down. The second row, especially in the Grand Touring trim with captain's chairs and a digital control panel, was particularly spacious and comfortable. The Aviator's power-button door releases, though innovative, raised concerns about functionality if the battery died.

The 2020 Ford Edge came standard with the SYNC 3 infotainment system, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen with easy-to-use icons and a helpful home button. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration were standard, with optional voice-activated navigation on higher trims. The Edge also offered two smart-charging USB ports and an optional dual rear-seat entertainment system.

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen running the intuitive Sync 3 system, with a landscape layout that was more natural than the Explorer's tall screen. The system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with large icons for easy use. The Aviator also offered a fully digital instrument panel and an optional head-up display with crisp graphics.

The 2020 Ford Edge came standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including front and side-impact airbags, AdvanceTrac traction control, and the Ford Co-Pilot360 system. This included automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Edge received a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator was equipped with the Lincoln Co-Pilot 360 package, featuring automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Co-Pilot 360 Plus package added reverse automatic braking, self-parking, and adaptive cruise control. The Aviator earned top safety marks from both the NHTSA and IIHS, including a Top Safety Pick accolade.