2021 BMW X3 vs 2020 Lincoln Aviator

The 2020 Lincoln Aviator was positioned between the larger Navigator and the smaller MKC (later replaced by the Corsair) in Lincoln's lineup. This model marked a return to real vehicle names, moving away from the previous alphabet-soup naming convention. The Aviator featured a unified design language across Lincoln's range, with elegant headlights and an upright chrome grille. Its tapering roofline and low, wide beltline gave it a sleek, boat-like appearance. Inside, the Aviator boasted a flowing design with soft-touch materials and selective brightwork, evoking a sense of Golden Age luxury without overdoing it. The seats were both elegant and sturdy, with shifter buttons designed like piano keys, adding to the luxurious feel.

The 2021 BMW X3, part of the third generation introduced in 2018, received updates in 2020, including a plug-in hybrid model and M performance variants. The redesign refined the X3's formula, giving it the presence of larger, more expensive BMW models. The exterior resembled a downsized X5, while the interior maintained BMW's cold, mechanical styling. Although not as aesthetically pleasing as the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, the X3's dash was more functional. The X3 offered trims like the sDrive30i, xDrive30i, M40i, and the xDrive30e plug-in hybrid, with the high-performance X3 M covered separately. Standard features included 18-inch alloy wheels, synthetic leather upholstery, and a 10.2-inch infotainment system, with various options for added luxury and convenience.

The 2020 Lincoln Aviator came standard with a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, producing 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. The Grand Touring trim combined this engine with a 100-hp electric motor, resulting in a net 494 hp and 630 lb-ft of torque. Both powertrains used a 10-speed automatic transmission, with the base V6 offering rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), while the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) was AWD only. Both versions could accelerate from 0-60 mph in about 4 seconds. The Grand Touring's hybrid setup provided smooth, confident acceleration and improved fuel efficiency, with a combined 23 mpg and a 21-mile electric-only range.

The 2021 BMW X3's sDrive30i and xDrive30i trims featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 248 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The sDrive30i had RWD, while the xDrive30i offered AWD. The xDrive30e plug-in hybrid produced 288 hp and had a 17-mile electric-only range, with recharging times of 3.5 hours using a 240-volt Level 2 charger or almost 12 hours with a 120-volt outlet. The M40i trim boasted a 382-hp twin-turbo inline-six engine, delivering robust acceleration and responsive cornering. For those seeking even more performance, the X3 M offered 473 hp.

The 2020 Lincoln Aviator, with its three rows of seating, competed with models like the Audi Q7, Infiniti QX60, and Mercedes-Benz GLE. The optional second-row captain's chairs were highly praised, while the power-closing third row was adequate for adults but better suited for children on longer trips. With the second and third rows folded, the Aviator provided 77 cubic feet of cargo space, comparable to the Cadillac XT6. However, some controls, like the seat adjustments and door handles, were overly complicated, potentially causing confusion for passengers.

The 2021 BMW X3 offered up to 62.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, and 28.7 cubic feet with the seats in use, making it one of the most spacious in its segment. A power liftgate was standard, with a hands-free option available. The X3 provided ample headroom and legroom for front and rear passengers, with a commanding driving position. BMW's use of real buttons and dials, in addition to the main touchscreen, made the controls user-friendly and intuitive.

The 2020 Lincoln Aviator featured the Sync 3 infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen in a landscape layout, providing a user-friendly interface for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The fully digital instrument panel and a large head-up display offered clear and concise information, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2021 BMW X3 came standard with a 10.2-inch touchscreen running the iDrive infotainment system, known for its ease of use. The combination of touch operation and the iDrive dial catered to different user preferences. Standard Apple CarPlay and optional Android Auto, along with features like wireless device charging, a fully digital instrument panel, and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon premium stereo system, provided a comprehensive tech package. Optional gesture control allowed for basic functions through hand movements, though it could result in false positives for those who talk with their hands.

The 2020 Lincoln Aviator came with a full array of front and side-impact airbags, traction control, and a tire pressure monitoring system. The Lincoln Co-Pilot360 suite included forward-collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, blind-spot monitoring, and a head-up display.

The 2021 BMW X3 offered advanced driver-assistance features such as automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and front-and-rear parking sensors. Optional safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, headlights that bend with the road, and a head-up display.