2022 Mazda CX-30 vs 2023 Lincoln Aviator

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 was reminiscent of a smaller CX-5, featuring an upright grille and smooth, flowing fenders. It shared its platform with the Mazda3, essentially serving as a raised-up version of the Mazda3 hatchback. The CX-30's raked windshield acted like a greenhouse on sunny days, potentially causing a tan on longer drives. However, the windshield's slight curve at eye level for taller drivers could distort the road view, which was distracting. Inside, the cabin was comfortable and quiet, with a solid feel to the buttons and doors. The interior design was one of the best among affordable cars, blending conventional and digital displays artfully. The infotainment screen rose organically from the dashboard, but its steep learning curve was a downside.

In contrast, the 2023 Lincoln Aviator was an appealing three-row, midsize SUV with a modern Lincoln face. The Aviator's wheel designs significantly impacted its overall look, and the Black Label Grand Touring's wheels were considered too plain. The Lincoln Embrace lighting sequence acknowledged the keyfob's presence, inviting entry with electric, light-touch door handles and soft-close doors. Inside, the Black Label Grand Touring was undeniably fancy, with patterned metal trim, gloss black surfaces, chrome accents, and rich caramel-hued leather seats. However, some chrome detailing appeared cheap, and the key fob felt too inexpensive for a luxury vehicle. The Aviator's cabin was a mix of high-end materials, but the overall design leaned more towards Art Deco than Japandi style.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 featured a base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 186 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. Our test model had the upgraded 2.5-liter turbocharged engine, delivering 227 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque on 87 octane fuel, and 250 hp and 320 lb-ft on 93 octane fuel. Power was routed to all four wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission. The turbocharged engine provided decent acceleration, and the Sport mode enhanced throttle response and shift mapping. The CX-30's sporty ride was complemented by well-weighted steering and quick turn-in, though it resulted in a rough ride over potholes.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring, a plug-in hybrid, generated an impressive 494 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 630 pound-feet of torque at 2,250 rpm. The EPA estimated a 21-mile electric driving range, with a combined 23 mpg in hybrid mode. The Aviator offered multiple driving modes, including Pure EV, Preserve EV, Conserve, Normal, and Excite. During our evaluation, the Aviator averaged 24.3 mpg over 94.7 miles, with 34.8 miles covered on electricity. The drivetrain provided plenty of power, but its response was sometimes unpredictable. The brake pedal exhibited inconsistent behavior, common with regenerative braking systems. The Aviator's Dynamic Handling Package and adaptive-damping Active Glide suspension managed the SUV's weight well, but it wasn't particularly fun to drive.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 offered up to 45.2 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, and 20.2 cubic feet with the seats in use. The Turbo Premium Plus model featured a power rear liftgate. The front seats had a sliding center console cover, which could get stuck under the seat when the rear seats were folded. The center console provided ample space for personal items, and the front doors had deep pockets for large water bottles. Rear seats offered solid headroom for short-to-medium trips, but longer drives might be tight.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator prioritized comfort with a four-zone automatic climate control system, heated power tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel, and automatic heated and ventilated front and second-row seats. The massaging, 30-way Perfect Position front seats were comfortable, and the second-row captain's chairs were roomy and supportive. However, the third-row seat was not suitable for adults, with limited kneeroom and legroom. The Aviator offered 18.3 cubic feet of cargo room with the third-row seats in use, 41.8 cubic feet with them folded, and a maximum of 77.7 cubic feet.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 featured an elegant dash design with an infotainment screen nestled into the dash. The screen lacked touch functionality and was controlled by a rotary dial/joystick in the center console. This setup was inspired by luxury-car infotainment systems like BMW's iDrive, but it suffered from usability issues. Navigating Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with the rotary dial was frustrating, and the system remained confusing even after setup.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Black Label Grand Touring was loaded with technology, including a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Alexa integration, and more. However, it ran on Lincoln's outdated Sync 3 software, which struggled with voice recognition. The 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D audio system was spectacular, and the SUV featured wireless charging and Phone As A Key digital key technology. The digital instrumentation and head-up display were effective, and the parking sensors and surround-view camera system were helpful.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 came with standard driver-assistance features like forward collision avoidance, pedestrian detection, and adaptive cruise control. The Turbo Premium Plus model included additional features such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and reverse automatic emergency braking. The CX-30 earned a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator was equipped with Co-Pilot360 collections of driver aids, including adaptive cruise control, road-sign recognition, and forward-collision warning. The test model had blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist. The driver aids performed well on straight highways but were less dependable in dense traffic. The Aviator received a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.