2024 BMW X5 vs 2023 Lincoln Aviator

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator presented a sophisticated and luxurious appearance, with its modern Lincoln face being a standout feature in the automaker’s lineup. The Black Label Grand Touring model, although fully loaded, had wheels that seemed too plain for its price point, especially when paired with the common white paint. The vehicle's lighting features, such as the Lincoln Embrace lighting sequence and ambient cabin lighting, added a touch of elegance, though the electronic door latches required careful handling to avoid pinching fingers. Inside, the Aviator's cabin was lavishly appointed with high-end materials, including rich caramel-hued leather seats and a simulated suede headliner. However, some chrome detailing appeared cheap, and the key fob felt too lightweight for a vehicle of this caliber.

In contrast, the 2024 BMW X5 maintained a timeless design since its last redesign in 2019, though the M Sport treatment was not universally appealing. The test vehicle featured optional 21-inch wheels that enhanced its appearance. The X5's interior received a modern update with the BMW Curved Display, reducing physical controls while maintaining a connection to BMW's traditional quality. The materials and construction were top-notch, and the vehicle's design changes aligned it with other BMW models. The X5's cabin was both stylish and functional, offering a blend of modern technology and classic BMW craftsmanship.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring, a plug-in hybrid, delivered an impressive 494 horsepower and 630 pound-feet of torque. Despite its added weight from the electric motor and battery, the Aviator offered 21 miles of electric driving range and averaged 23 mpg in hybrid mode. The SUV featured multiple driving modes, including Pure EV and Preserve EV, to optimize efficiency. During testing, the Aviator achieved an equivalent of 163.4 mpg by relying heavily on electric power. However, the drivetrain's responsiveness was inconsistent, and the brake pedal behavior varied due to the regenerative braking system. The Aviator's handling was commendable, thanks to its Dynamic Handling Package, but it lacked the fun-to-drive factor, focusing more on providing a quiet and smooth ride.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e PHEV boasted a new mild-hybrid system with a powerful electric motor and a 19.2 kWh battery, offering 38 miles of electric-only driving. The xDrive50e produced 483 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, accelerating to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. The PHEV's efficiency was notable, achieving 33.7 mpg during a test drive. The adaptive damping air suspension masked the vehicle's weight, and the X5 excelled in handling, especially in Sport mode. The brakes performed well under repeated use, and the SUV gained battery charge during downhill driving. Overall, the X5 xDrive50e provided an engaging driving experience with excellent efficiency.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator prioritized comfort with features like a four-zone automatic climate control system, heated and ventilated seats, and massaging front seats. The second-row captain’s chairs were spacious, but the third-row seat was cramped and difficult to access. With the third row in use, cargo space was limited to 18.3 cubic feet, expanding to 77.7 cubic feet with the seats folded down.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e offered a spacious interior for five passengers, with a 33.1 cubic-foot cargo area that expanded to 71.2 cubic feet. The split liftgate design provided a convenient seating area but required stretching to access deep cargo. The X5 featured standard sport seats and optional multi-contour front seats with heating and ventilation. The panoramic sunroof and side window sunshades enhanced rear-seat comfort. Unlike previous models, the X5 no longer offered a third-row seat, requiring buyers to consider the larger X7 for that feature.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Black Label Grand Touring was equipped with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Alexa integration. However, it ran on the outdated Sync 3 software, which struggled with voice recognition tasks. The Revel Ultima 3D audio system provided exceptional sound quality, and the Phone As A Key system allowed smartphone-based vehicle access. The head-up display was effective even with polarized sunglasses, and parking sensors and a surround-view camera aided in parking.

The 2024 BMW X5 featured the BMW Curved Display with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system running iDrive 8.5. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a cloud-based navigation system. The Intelligent Personal Assistant, however, struggled with voice recognition tasks, leading to some frustration. The optional Harman Kardon sound system delivered excellent audio quality. The head-up display effectively conveyed information, and the augmented video function for navigation was a useful addition.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator came with Co-Pilot360 driver aids, including adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping assist. The system performed well on highways but struggled in dense traffic. The Aviator received a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2024 BMW X5 introduced the Highway Assistant hands-free driving system, which worked well in light traffic but had issues in moderate traffic. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance performed effectively on highways. The X5 received high ratings from the IIHS, but lower headlight ratings prevented it from earning a safety award. The NHTSA gave the X5 a four-star overall crash-test rating.