2023 Lincoln Aviator vs 2022 Lexus RX

The 2022 Lexus RX, available in base 350, F Sport, and L trim levels, along with a hybrid RX 450h model, maintained its modern and sporty design from its 2020 facelift. The RX 350 and F Sport offered seating for five, while the L trim provided a three-row, 7-passenger option. Among its competitors, the RX stood out with its aggressive styling, characterized by razor-sharp character lines and angular features that were eye-catching yet tastefully restrained. The F Sport trim, in particular, enhanced the vehicle's athletic appearance with 20-inch wheels, unique front fascia, and sportier exterior elements.

Inside, the RX continued its luxury appeal with a variety of color combinations and materials, though the F Sport trim added a sporty touch with model-specific badging and Scored Aluminum accents. Despite the high-quality feel of the cabin, the center stack felt dated, and the NuLuxe seats in the F Sport trim were less comfortable than expected. The limited-edition Black Line trim offered a high-end look with exclusive black-colored features and contrast gray stitching, appealing to those prioritizing aesthetics over performance.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator presented a choice between a standard twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine and a plug-in hybrid powertrain in the Grand Touring models. The Aviator's design was a successful execution of Lincoln's modern face, though the wheel designs on the Black Label Grand Touring model were considered plain. The vehicle featured an inviting Lincoln Embrace lighting sequence and electric, light-touch door handles, enhancing its luxurious feel. Inside, the Black Label Grand Touring's cabin was lavish, with a mix of patterned metal trim, chrome accents, and rich caramel-hued leather seats, though some details like chrome switchgear felt less premium.

The Aviator's interior was mostly high-end, with soft leather and a suede headliner, but some elements like the key fob felt cheap. The vehicle's technology included a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Alexa integration, though it ran on the older Sync 3 software, which had limitations in voice recognition. The Aviator's 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D audio system was a highlight, providing an exceptional listening experience. The SUV also featured a comprehensive head-up display and a Phone As A Key system, adding convenience to its tech offerings.

The 2022 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, while the hybrid RX 450h combined the V6 with electric motors for a total of 308 horsepower. Despite the F Sport designation, the RX's performance was underwhelming, with an engine note more akin to a turbocharged four-cylinder and lackluster acceleration. The F Sport Handling package added features like an adaptive variable suspension and Sport+ drive mode, but the changes in driving dynamics were minimal. The RX excelled in comfort and cabin quietness, offering a smooth ride and isolated road noise. Fuel efficiency for the RX 350 was estimated at 20 mpg city, 27 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined, with the hybrid RX 450h achieving 30 mpg combined.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring, a plug-in hybrid, delivered an impressive 494 horsepower and 630 pound-feet of torque. It offered 21 miles of electric driving range and averaged 23 mpg combined in hybrid mode. The Aviator's driving modes, including Pure EV and Preserve EV, allowed for efficient use of the battery charge. The vehicle's performance was powerful, though the drivetrain could be unpredictable, with inconsistent acceleration and braking behavior. The Aviator's Dynamic Handling Package and adaptive-damping suspension provided a smooth and stable ride, though it lacked the fun-to-drive factor. The Aviator was quiet and isolating, making it ideal for comfortable cruising.

The 2022 Lexus RX offered 99.8 cubic feet of passenger volume in its two-row configuration, comfortably seating four adults. Front headroom measured 39.4 inches, with 39.1 inches in the rear, and legroom was ample at 44.1 inches in the front and 38.0 inches in the back. The three-row L models had limited space, with only 7.45 cubic feet of cargo room behind the third row. Cargo capacity increased to 58.48 cubic feet with both back rows folded, though the seats did not fold completely flat. The RX featured thoughtful interior elements like a smartphone slot and adjustable-height cup holder.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator prioritized comfort with features like a four-zone climate control system, heated and ventilated seats, and massaging 30-way Perfect Position front seats. The second-row captain's chairs were spacious, but the third row 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, though the third row was best suited for occasional use.

The 2022 Lexus RX came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with a 12.3-inch version available. The touchscreens were positioned atop the center stack, creating access issues. The system was responsive, but the touchpad controller was frustrating to use. The RX offered a range of tech features, including six USB ports, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, wireless charging, and a premium audio system. The Lexus App provided additional connectivity options.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Alexa integration, though it ran on the older Sync 3 software. The voice recognition system had limitations, making it less user-friendly. The Aviator's 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D audio system was a standout feature, delivering exceptional sound quality. The vehicle also included wireless charging, a Phone As A Key system, and a comprehensive head-up display.

The 2022 Lexus RX was equipped with the Lexus Safety System 2.0+, which included adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, road-sign recognition, and a pre-collision system. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a head-up display. The RX received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, though it missed the top-tier designation due to its headlights. The NHTSA awarded the RX four stars overall, with five stars in side crash tests.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator came with Co-Pilot360 driver aids, including adaptive cruise control, road-sign recognition, and forward-collision warning. The vehicle also featured blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist. The Aviator's safety tech performed well, though the lane-keeping system struggled in curves. The standard Aviator received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.