2024 Mazda CX-90 vs 2023 Lincoln Aviator

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator presented a choice between a standard twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine and a hybrid version in the Grand Touring models. The hybrid combined the V6 with a 75-kilowatt electric motor and a 13.6-kilowatt-hour battery, offering standard all-wheel drive. Prices ranged from $53,340 to $89,280, with the Black Label Grand Touring model reaching $91,225. The Aviator was a stylish midsize SUV, though some design elements, like the wheels, felt underwhelming for its price. The interior was luxurious, featuring high-end materials and a sophisticated lighting sequence, but some details, like the chrome switchgear, seemed less premium.

In contrast, the 2024 Mazda CX-90 showcased a bold design, stretching over 200 inches with a prominent grille and large wheels. The interior of top-tier models rivaled luxury brands, with brown suede upholstery and wood inlays. The CX-90 offered 11 trim levels across three powertrains, including a plug-in hybrid and a Turbo S model. The Turbo S, starting at over $50,000, was the performance highlight. The CX-90's design and material quality elevated Mazda's status, making it a strong contender in the luxury SUV market.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring, a plug-in hybrid, delivered 494 horsepower and 630 pound-feet of torque. It offered 21 miles of electric range and averaged 23 mpg in hybrid mode. The Aviator featured multiple driving modes, including Pure EV and Excite, and a Dynamic Handling Package for improved suspension. Despite its power, the Aviator's driving experience was sometimes unpredictable, with inconsistent acceleration and braking. The SUV excelled in comfort and quietness, making it ideal for smooth highway cruising rather than spirited driving.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 introduced new powertrains, including a plug-in hybrid and a turbocharged inline-six engine. The Turbo S variant produced 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque with premium fuel. All models featured all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The CX-90 offered Normal, Sport, and Off-Road driving modes, with Sport mode enhancing the driving experience. The PHEV model provided 323 horsepower and a 26-mile electric range. Both models handled corners with agility, thanks to a double-wishbone front suspension and precise steering, embodying Mazda's reputation for driver-focused vehicles.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator prioritized comfort with features like a four-zone climate control system and massaging front seats. However, the third-row seating was cramped, making it less suitable for adults. Cargo space was limited to 18.3 cubic feet with all seats up, expanding to 77.7 cubic feet with the third row folded.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 offered various seating configurations, accommodating up to eight passengers. The Turbo S models featured a two-seat third row, providing slightly more cargo space. Total cargo capacity reached 75.2 cubic feet, with 15.9 cubic feet behind the third row. While not the most spacious in its class, the CX-90 offered clever storage solutions and high-quality materials, ensuring a comfortable experience.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator was equipped with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D audio system. However, the outdated Sync 3 software struggled with voice recognition, making it less user-friendly. The SUV also included wireless charging and a digital key system, enhancing convenience.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 focused on reducing distractions with a rotary control knob instead of a touchscreen. While the system had quirks, it offered personalization features using facial recognition. The CX-90 included standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, with wireless functionality in higher trims. These systems allowed for touchscreen controls, providing a more intuitive experience.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator featured Co-Pilot360 driver aids, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. While effective, the system's controls were unnecessarily complex. The Aviator received a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 came standard with i-Activsense, offering blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. The Turbo S Premium Plus model included advanced lane-centering and traffic support. Although not yet rated by safety organizations, the CX-90 was expected to perform well, following the success of the CX-9.