2020 Lincoln Aviator vs 2021 Honda Odyssey

The 2020 Lincoln Aviator was positioned between the larger Navigator and the smaller MKC, which was later replaced by the Corsair. Lincoln's shift from alphanumeric names to real vehicle names signaled a move away from mimicking imports. The Aviator featured a cohesive design language across Lincoln's lineup, with striking headlights and a prominent chrome grille. Its tapered roofline and low, wide beltline gave it an elongated, almost nautical appearance. Inside, the Aviator boasted a flowing cabin design with soft-touch materials and elegant seats, hinting at a luxurious past without overdoing it. The plush leather extended throughout the interior, underscoring Lincoln's commitment to luxury. Unique touches like a panoramic moonroof and orchestral warning jingles added to its distinctiveness.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey retained a familiar design with subtle updates, including a new grille, front bumper, and standard LED headlights. These changes modernized its appearance by reducing brightwork. The Odyssey offered five trim levels, with prices ranging from $31,790 to $47,820. Our test vehicle, the Elite trim, featured perforated leather upholstery, ambient lighting, and new 19-inch wheels, enhancing its upscale feel. The Odyssey's interior improvements included tri-color floor mats and a more luxurious ambiance, making it closer to an Acura-like experience. Despite these updates, the Odyssey maintained its practicality and family-friendly design, with ample storage and comfortable seating.

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 elevated performance by combining the V6 with a 100-hp electric motor, resulting in a total output of 494 hp and 630 lb-ft of torque. Both powertrains utilized a 10-speed automatic transmission, with the base V6 offering rear-wheel or all-wheel drive, while the plug-in hybrid was exclusively AWD. The Aviator's acceleration was impressive, reaching 0-60 mph in about 4 seconds. The PHEV's electric power smoothed out the driving experience, and the Aviator's steering and brakes provided a refined ride. Fuel economy for the RWD Aviator was 18 mpg city, 26 highway, and 21 combined, while the PHEV achieved 23 mpg combined with a 21-mile electric-only range.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission, delivering 280 horsepower. The drivetrain remained unchanged from the previous year, offering smooth and effortless power. The Odyssey's fuel-saving technology, variable cylinder management, contributed to an EPA rating of 22 mpg combined. However, the lack of all-wheel drive put the Odyssey at a disadvantage in snowy regions. Honda introduced a new electronic brake booster, enhancing brake pedal feel and response. The Odyssey's ride and handling were enjoyable, with well-weighted steering and firm yet comfortable suspension. However, the brakes struggled during intense use, indicating a need for improvement.

The 2020 Lincoln Aviator's three-row configuration placed it among competitors like the Audi Q7 and Mercedes-Benz GLE. The optional second-row captain's chairs were praised for their comfort, while the power-closing third row was suitable for short trips. With the second and third rows folded, the Aviator offered 77 cubic feet of cargo space. However, some controls, like the seat adjustments and door handles, were overly complicated. The door-release function, in particular, was confusing, raising concerns about usability in emergencies.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey excelled in interior space and practicality. It featured a 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat, with heated and ventilated front seats in the Elite trim. The Magic Slide second-row seat layout allowed for versatile seating configurations, accommodating up to eight passengers. Cargo space was generous, with 32.8 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 144.9 cubic feet with seats removed. However, removing the second-row seats was cumbersome. The Odyssey's storage solutions were abundant, with shelves and compartments throughout the cabin.

The 2020 Lincoln Aviator came equipped with the Sync 3 infotainment system, featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen. The landscape layout provided a user-friendly interface for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Aviator also boasted a fully digital instrument panel and a head-up display, offering a wealth of information in a minimalist manner.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey's technology suite began with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system on the EX trim, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and more. Touring and Elite trims added features like a navigation system, WiFi capability, and a rear-seat entertainment system. HondaLink subscription services provided additional connectivity options. However, the lack of a tuning knob and subpar voice-recognition technology were drawbacks. The rear-seat entertainment system, while comprehensive, lacked a touchscreen interface, disappointing some users.

The 2020 Lincoln Aviator included standard safety features such as airbags, traction control, and a tire pressure monitoring system. The Lincoln Co-Pilot360 suite offered advanced driver-assistance systems, including forward-collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey improved its safety features with the standard Honda Sensing suite, which included adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, pedestrian braking, and road-sign recognition. The Odyssey's structural integrity and safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were expected to carry over from the previous year, with top ratings in most categories.