2024 Acura MDX vs 2023 Lincoln Aviator

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator presented a sophisticated and modern design, characterized by its twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, which was standard across several trims. This engine was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and offered both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options. The Aviator Grand Touring and Black Label Grand Touring models enhanced this powertrain with a hybrid system, including a 75-kilowatt electric motor and a 13.6-kilowatt-hour battery pack, making all-wheel drive standard. The Aviator's pricing ranged from $53,340 to $89,280, excluding a destination charge, with the Black Label Grand Touring model reaching $91,225. The Aviator was noted for its appealing design, though some wheel designs were considered too plain for its price point. The vehicle's lighting features and interior design aimed to convey luxury, though some elements, like the chrome detailing, fell short of expectations.

In contrast, the 2024 Acura MDX was praised for its striking exterior, featuring a large shield grille and sleek headlights. The interior was high-tech but busy, with a variety of controls that could be overwhelming. The MDX was available in several trims, including the Technology, A-Spec, and Advance Packages, as well as the Type-S and Type-S Advance models. Standard features included tri-zone climate control, synthetic leather upholstery, and a panoramic sunroof. The Type-S Advance model, which was reviewed, offered a 26-speaker ELS sound system and massaging front seats, providing a luxurious experience. While the MDX's cabin was not as opulent as some competitors, its massaging seats were highly regarded.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring, a plug-in hybrid, was not solely focused on efficiency. Despite the added weight from its electric motor and battery, it delivered an impressive 494 horsepower and 630 pound-feet of torque. The Aviator offered 21 miles of electric driving range and averaged 23 mpg in hybrid mode. Various driving modes allowed for a mix of electric and gasoline power, with the ability to recharge the battery in under four hours using a 240-volt Level 2 charging station. The Aviator's performance was powerful, though sometimes unpredictable, with inconsistent brake pedal behavior. The Dynamic Handling Package and adaptive-damping Active Glide suspension helped manage the vehicle's weight, providing a smooth and quiet ride, though it lacked the fun factor in more aggressive driving modes.

The 2024 Acura MDX Type-S Advance featured a twin-scroll turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, producing 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. Power was delivered through a 10-speed automatic transmission to either the front wheels or Acura's Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive System. The MDX Type-S offered strong acceleration and a comfortable ride, with Brembo performance brakes and an adaptive air suspension. The Integrated Dynamics System provided various driving modes, including Sport+ and Lift mode for off-road adventures. The MDX excelled on highways, offering a refined and comfortable experience, with a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator prioritized comfort with features like a four-zone automatic 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 best suited for children. Cargo space was limited with the third row in use, offering 18.3 cubic feet, but expanded to 77.7 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2024 Acura MDX offered three rows of seating, with the first two rows being comfortable and supportive. The third row was smaller and more suitable for children. Cargo space measured 16.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 71.4 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The MDX featured a power liftgate, with a hands-free option available on higher trims. The center console provided ample storage, though the center stack of controls was cluttered and unintuitive.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Black Label Grand Touring was equipped with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Alexa integration, and more. However, it ran on the outdated Sync 3 software, which struggled with voice recognition. The vehicle also included a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D audio system and smartphone-related tech like wireless charging and Phone As A Key. The digital instrumentation and head-up display were well-executed, though the Active Parking Assist 2.0 system was not tested.

The 2024 Acura MDX's infotainment system was its weak point, with a clumsy interface controlled by a touchpad. Despite this, the MDX offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, satellite radio, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The center console cleverly integrated charging ports and a wireless charging pad. While the infotainment system was a drawback, the MDX's feature set was otherwise impressive.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator came with Co-Pilot360 driver aids, including adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping assist. The test vehicle had all available features, though the steering wheel controls were unnecessarily complicated. The Aviator received a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2024 Acura MDX offered a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. The Technology Package added parking sensors and reverse automatic emergency braking, while the Advance package included a 360-degree camera system. The MDX earned a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS, though the infotainment system remained a distraction.