2025 Lincoln Aviator vs 2024 BMW X5

The 2024 BMW X5, last redesigned in 2019, maintained a timeless appeal, although the M Sport treatment was not universally appreciated, giving it a station wagon-like appearance. The test vehicle featured optional 21-inch “741M” wheels with staggered-width summer tires, which were considered a worthwhile upgrade despite the potential cost of tire replacement. The X5 offered a range of powertrains, including a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, a turbo-six PHEV powertrain, and a turbocharged V8 engine, with various trim packages and options available. The xDrive50e M Sport specification test vehicle came with Brooklyn Grey paint, 21-inch wheels, and all available equipment packages, priced at $88,075. The 2024 model received a light styling refresh and introduced the BMW Curved Display, modernizing the interior while retaining high-quality materials and construction.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator, built on a rear-wheel-drive platform shared with the Ford Explorer, boasted classic design proportions with a blunt nose, short front overhang, and a tapered roofline. However, the 2025 styling was perceived as less elegant, especially with the optional Jet Appearance Package. The interior exuded a classic architectural sensibility, with electronic door releases and a plush cabin. The Aviator offered Premiere, Reserve, and Black Label trims, with prices ranging from $60,990 to $89,090. The test vehicle, in Reserve trim with AWD, Whisper Blue paint, and several option packages, had an MSRP of $83,550. The Reserve II Package added features like upgraded lighting, 30-way-adjustable front seats, and a 28-speaker Revel Ultima audio system. Despite some drawbacks, such as the remote keyless entry fob, the Aviator's design and features made it a compelling choice.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e PHEV featured new mild-hybrid engines and a significant upgrade to its electric range and power output. It boasted a 19.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack and a more powerful electric motor integrated into the eight-speed automatic transmission. The PHEV offered 38 miles of electric-only driving and 22 mpg in combined driving. With 483 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, it accelerated to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. The PHEV was praised for its driving dynamics, adaptive damping air suspension, and excellent visibility. It delivered an average fuel economy of 38.8 mpg during a 95.5-mile evaluation drive, showcasing its efficiency and performance.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator featured a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, producing 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. It offered various driving modes, including Excite, Conserve, and Normal. The Aviator excelled in Normal mode, providing ample power for acceleration and passing. However, its fuel economy was disappointing, with an observed 17.7 mpg on a mountainous testing loop. The Aviator's adaptive air suspension provided a comfortable ride, but the 22-inch wheels and tires generated noticeable road noise. While not particularly sporty, the Aviator's Air Glide suspension ensured a composed and calming driving experience.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e offered a spacious interior with room for five people and a cargo area that expanded from 33.1 to 71.2 cubic feet. The split liftgate design provided a convenient seating area but required stretching to access items deep in the cargo hold. The test vehicle featured Sensafin artificial leather upholstery, standard sport seats, and the Climate Comfort Package, which included 20-way power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed comfort and a panoramic sunroof, although a third-row seat was no longer available.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator prioritized comfort with its Perfect Position front seats, offering 30-way adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The second-row captain's chairs were roomy and supportive, with heating and ventilation. However, the third-row seat was less accommodating for adults, with limited legroom and low cushions. The Aviator excelled in storage space, with a well-organized center console and deep door panel storage pockets. It provided 19.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 78.6 cubic feet with the seats folded down.

The 2024 BMW X5 featured a BMW Curved Display, combining a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel with a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It ran BMW Operating System 8.5, offering wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and over-the-air software updates. The test vehicle included a Harman Kardon sound system, but the Intelligent Personal Assistant's performance was disappointing, struggling with voice recognition and navigation tasks. The head-up display and augmented video function for navigation were praised for their effectiveness.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator featured a 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster and a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system powered by Lincoln Digital Experience. It supported Google Built-in, Alexa Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. However, the Google Assistant struggled with voice prompts, while Apple CarPlay and Siri worked seamlessly. The Aviator's 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D sound system delivered excellent audio quality. The head-up display provided valuable information, including lane departure warnings and blind-spot alerts.

The 2024 BMW X5 introduced the Highway Assistant hands-free driving assistance system, which required deliberate activation. It performed well in dense traffic and light traffic conditions but exhibited errant braking episodes. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance were effective, although the X5's crash-test ratings were not perfect, with a four-star overall rating from NHTSA and lower headlight ratings from IIHS.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator came equipped with Lincoln Co-Pilot360 Drive 2.0, offering advanced driver assistance systems like active blind-spot monitoring, intersection assist, and evasive steering assist. The reverse braking assist system required deactivation due to its sensitivity. BlueCruise, a hands-free driving assistance system, was standard and performed well, proactively handing control to the driver when necessary. The Aviator received five-star ratings from NHTSA and Good ratings from IIHS, indicating strong safety performance.