2022 Ford Bronco vs 2023 Lincoln Aviator

The 2022 Ford Bronco captivated enthusiasts with its retro styling and robust off-road capabilities. It offered a wide range of trims, including the new Everglades model, which was specifically designed for swampy terrains with features like an intake snorkel and 35-inch mud-terrain tires. Despite its rugged exterior, the Bronco provided a blend of utility and technology, with options for a two-door or four-door body style, various engine choices, and a removable roof. Its utilitarian design was complemented by practical interior features such as marine-grade vinyl upholstery and drain plugs, making it easy to clean after off-road adventures. The Bronco's technology, including G.O.A.T. modes and a comprehensive camera system, ensured it was as capable on the road as it was off.

In contrast, the 2023 Lincoln Aviator exuded luxury with its elegant design and high-end features. It offered a choice between a twin-turbocharged V6 engine and a plug-in hybrid powertrain, with the latter delivering impressive power and efficiency. The Aviator's interior was lavish, featuring 30-way adjustable front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a sophisticated design with rich materials. However, the third-row seating was cramped, making it less suitable for adults. The Aviator was equipped with a host of technology, including a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, though it ran on the older Sync 3 software, which had its limitations. Despite its luxurious appeal, the Aviator's driving dynamics were more focused on comfort than sportiness.

The 2022 Ford Bronco offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder producing 300 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque, and an optional turbocharged 2.7-liter V6 with 330 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. The four-cylinder engine could be paired with a seven-speed manual transmission, featuring a unique crawl gear for off-road precision, while the V6 came with a 10-speed automatic. All Broncos were equipped with four-wheel drive and an electronic two-speed transfer case, ensuring they could tackle challenging terrains. The Bronco excelled in off-road conditions, with models like the Everglades demonstrating exceptional capabilities in mud and water crossings. On-road, the Bronco offered a surprisingly smooth ride, with better handling and comfort than its rival, the Jeep Wrangler.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring, a plug-in hybrid, combined a twin-turbo V6 with an electric motor to produce 494 horsepower and 630 pound-feet of torque. It offered 21 miles of electric-only range and an average of 23 mpg in hybrid mode. The Aviator's driving modes, including Pure EV and Preserve EV, allowed for efficient use of its battery. Despite its added weight, the Aviator handled well, thanks to its adaptive suspension, but it lacked the engaging driving experience of sportier SUVs. The Aviator's powertrain was powerful, yet sometimes unpredictable, with occasional delays in acceleration and inconsistent brake pedal feel. Overall, the Aviator prioritized comfort and smoothness over dynamic driving.

The 2022 Ford Bronco's boxy design translated into ample interior space, with generous headroom and legroom for passengers. The two-door model offered up to 22.4 cubic feet of cargo space, while the four-door version provided up to 77.6 cubic feet. However, the rear seats didn't fold flat, complicating the loading of larger items. The Bronco featured clever storage solutions, including netted door pockets and accessory rails, and offered removable doors and fender flares for added versatility. Its utilitarian design was complemented by practical features like hidden anchors for load-bearing racks and limb-lifter cables.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator prioritized passenger comfort with features like a four-zone climate control system and massaging front seats. The second-row captain's chairs were spacious, but the third-row seating was cramped and difficult to access. With the third row in use, the Aviator offered 18.3 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 77.7 cubic feet with the seats folded. The Aviator's interior was luxurious, with high-quality materials and a focus on comfort, though the third row was best suited for children or short trips.

The 2022 Ford Bronco integrated technology to enhance its off-road capabilities, featuring G.O.A.T. modes for different terrains and a forward-looking trail camera for better visibility. The Sync 4 infotainment system offered quick responses and sharp graphics, with standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Bronco's technology was designed to keep drivers engaged while providing confidence in challenging conditions.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator was loaded with technology, including a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Alexa integration. However, it ran on the older Sync 3 software, which had limitations in voice recognition and navigation accuracy. The Aviator featured a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D audio system and a digital key system, allowing smartphone access. Despite its technological offerings, the Aviator's infotainment system fell short of expectations for a luxury SUV.

The 2022 Ford Bronco came with standard safety features like hill-start assist and trailer sway control. Optional packages added features such as frontal collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The Bronco received mixed safety ratings, with a four-star frontal crash rating from the NHTSA and a "Good" rating from the IIHS for most tests.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator was equipped with comprehensive safety features, including adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping assist. The Aviator's driver aids performed well, though the lane-keeping system struggled in curves. The standard Aviator received a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though the Grand Touring model was not separately rated.