2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2023 Lincoln Aviator

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator was a visually appealing three-row, midsize SUV noted for its confident stance and modern Lincoln face, regarded as the most successful execution within Lincoln’s lineup. Navigating through various trim levels offered choices between a standard twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine across its Standard, Reserve, and Black Label trims, and a more eco-conscious plug-in hybrid drivetrain for the Grand Touring and Black Label Grand Touring models. The hybrid variants included a 75-kilowatt electric motor and a 13.6-kilowatt-hour battery pack, combining for a seamless power delivery with standard all-wheel drive.

In terms of pricing, the Aviator spanned a range from $53,340 to $89,280, excluding the $1,195 destination charge. The tested Black Label Grand Touring was the pinnacle model with an impressive $91,225 MSRP, casting a luxurious aura even with its understated $750 optional paint job. However, a critique emerged concerning its rather plain wheel design, which detracted from the lavish price tag’s expectation.

Exterior lighting enhancements under the Lincoln Embrace lighting sequence and the effortless electric, light-touch door handles marked a high-end entry experience. Yet, these electronic door latches did carry a caveat of potential finger pinching if not carefully handled. The Black Label Grand Touring's cabin attempted an opulent Art Deco theme, mixing patterned metals, gloss black surfaces, chrome accents, and rich caramel leather seats, which bordered upon overdoing the luxurious feel. Quality materials covered much of the interior, from soft leather to a suede headliner, though the fake plastic seams and some cheap-feeling chrome switchgears did not pass unnoticed.

Comparing this to the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class, while the exterior changes to the 2024 model were subtle, they lent fresh refinement to an already sophisticated silhouette. Mercedes incorporated inventive details such as star logos on the grille and refreshed headlight and taillight designs, emphasizing a more modern appearance. Standard LED headlights and optional multi-beam LEDs provided enhanced visibility. The test GLE 450e stood out in a Twilight Blue metallic paint paired with elegant 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, together enhancing the SUV’s curb appeal significantly.

Internally, the GLE 450e combined luxurious materials like Macchiato beige and black leather with brown walnut trim to create an inviting and upscale ambiance. The GLE offered a superior selection of interior color choices and materials, ensuring a personalized and high-quality cabin environment. The combined effect of these elements marked the GLE as an SUV both classy and contemporary, making it a standout choice for those seeking luxury.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring demonstrated impressive performance figures, driven by its hybrid powertrain delivering a combined 494 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 630 pound-feet of torque at 2,250 rpm. Despite adding an extra 800 pounds due to the hybrid system, the Aviator managed to offer commendable power. The EPA measured it at 21 miles of electric range, with the hybrid mode yielding 23 mpg combined. Various driving modes, including Pure EV and Preserve EV, allowed flexibility in managing the electric charge, while conventional modes like Conserve, Normal, and Excite balanced between gasoline and electric power for optimal efficiency.

During an extended drive, the Aviator proved its efficiency, covering 20.8 miles purely on electricity out of an indicated 23 miles of range, averaging an impressive 163.4 mpg equivalent initially. Over an extended distance of 94.7 miles, it maintained an average fuel economy of 24.3 mpg. Even with great power available at full throttle, inconsistencies in drivetrain response and braking behavior were noted, often resulting in unpredictable acceleration and braking needs.

Supplementing its performance, the Aviator featured an adaptive damping Active Glide suspension, promising a flat and predictable cornering stance despite the added weight. The test drive revealed a vehicle comfortable cruising over bumps and turns, yet it failed to deliver engaging driving dynamics even in its Excite mode, steering towards a more serene and isolated driving experience.

The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class offered diverse powertrain options to suit various preferences, starting with the more accessible GLE 350 and 450, peaking at the AMG GLE 63 S with a thunderous 603 horsepower from its twin-turbo V8, transforming it into a near sports car. However, the GLE 450e carved a niche balancing performance and efficiency with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor outputting 381 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. All-wheel drive ensured a swift 5.4-second sprint to 60 mph.

Although official EPA figures were absent, an estimated 40-mile electric range was observed, competently allowing high-speed electric mode operation. Transitions between electric and gasoline power were nearly imperceptible, ensuring seamless performance. Apart from the occasional numbness of regenerative brakes, the GLE excelled in performance, maintaining a quiet cabin even in hybrid mode.

The suspension system shone, comfortably absorbing road imperfections, solidifying the GLE’s reputation for providing a smooth and steady ride. Despite its size, the GLE felt agile, with sophisticated steering offering responsive handling without compromising comfort, underscoring its dual elegance and driver-friendliness.

In terms of interior comfort, the 2023 Lincoln Aviator was equipped with a range of features designed to enhance passenger experience. The test vehicle boasted a four-zone climate control system, heated and ventilated front and second-row seats, and a heated steering wheel for optimal cabin comfort. The 30-way adjustable Perfect Position front seats with massaging function required some fuss to find the ideal setting but were highly comfortable. However, the third-row seats were cramped, suitable mainly for children or short journeys, and difficult to access due to limited second-row movement.

Cargo capacity with the Aviator was modest, offering just 18.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 41.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and maxing out at 77.7 cubic feet. This configuration emphasized the Aviator’s focus on passenger comfort over expansive cargo space.

Conversely, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class offered ample space in both the first and second rows, accommodating adult passengers comfortably. The light upholstery design contributed to an airy cabin atmosphere, enhancing visibility significantly. Behind the rear seats, the GLE provided 33 cubic feet of cargo space, which was competitive yet slightly behind the three-row leaders like Cadillac XT6 and Volvo XC90. The GLE's optional third-row seat was limited in size, suitable only for young children.

Comfort features in the GLE 450e included power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a power tilt/sliding sunroof. The test vehicle was fitted with additional upscale features from the Exclusive and Pinnacle trims, bringing a comprehensive luxury experience, including a Burmester surround-sound audio system, augmented reality navigation, and even ventilated and massaging front seats.

Technology was a focal point in both vehicles. The Lincoln Aviator featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system inclusive of Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Alexa integration, Lincoln Connect, SiriusXM, and navigation. Unfortunately, the outdated Sync 3 system occasionally faltered, with voice recognition issues leading to inaccurate location searches and navigation hassles. Voice control quirks aside, the Aviator’s 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D audio system delivered extraordinary sound quality, complemented by novel Detroit Symphony Orchestra chimes for alerts.

Smartphone integration was emphasized via wireless charging and the Phone As A Key digital system, allowing drivers to use their smartphones as virtual keys. Digital instrumentation and a head-up display enhanced the driving experience, while front and rear parking sensors, along with a surround-view camera system, made maneuvering the Aviator easier.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class showcased its Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) system through dual 12.3-inch screens, serving the digital instrument cluster and infotainment needs. Usability was high, offering control via touch, a center console pad, or touch-sensitive steering wheel buttons. The system was feature-rich, with a learning curve but ultimately provided a robust experience. Voice command improvements minimized accidental activations, and the head-up display with augmented reality navigation provided clarity and convenience.

Technological convenience extended to features like a Burmester audio system, illuminated running boards, and various other luxurious touches. The GLE's tech suite was sophisticated yet user-friendly, reinforcing its role as a premium luxury SUV.

Safety in the Lincoln Aviator involved multiple driver aid suites, such as Co-Pilot360 1.5, Plus, and 2.0, integrating features like adaptive cruise control, road-sign recognition, pedestrian detection, and automatic emergency braking. Blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert with automatic braking, and lane-keeping systems ensured an overarching safety net, though lane-keeping assist occasionally hugged the inside lane markings excessively.

The Aviator achieved a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, underscoring its solid safety credentials. However, futility in some driver aid control buttons marred the experience somewhat.

For the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class, safety features came standard, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, and pedestrian detection. Our test vehicle added the optional Driver Assistance package, incorporating advanced features like active blind-spot assist, adaptive cruise control, and evasive steering assist. These features were discreet, performing reliably without overreacting to common driving incidences.