2025 Lincoln Aviator vs 2024 Mazda CX-5

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 retained its familiar design from the second-generation model introduced in 2017, maintaining a modern and appealing look. The test vehicle, a new Carbon Turbo trim, featured Zircon Sand paint and exclusive Terracotta leather seats, complemented by gloss-black exterior detailing. Mazda also introduced improvements such as enhanced fuel economy for the base engine, wireless charging, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in several trims. The CX-5 lineup offered a range of trims with prices starting at $29,300, plus a destination charge, and the Carbon Turbo test vehicle was priced at $39,355, including destination.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator, built on a rear-wheel-drive platform shared with the Ford Explorer, showcased classic design proportions with a blunt nose and tapered roofline. However, the 2025 styling appeared less elegant, especially with the optional Jet Appearance Package. Inside, the Aviator offered a plush interior with a classic architectural sensibility, avoiding an overload of screens. The test vehicle, in Reserve trim, included options like all-wheel drive, Whisper Blue paint, and several packages, bringing its MSRP to $83,550, including destination. The Reserve II Package added features like 30-way-adjustable front seats with massage and a 28-speaker Revel Ultima audio system.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Turbo delivered 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium gas, or 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular gas. The powertrain was more rewarding with a gradual acceleration approach, though it wasn't fuel-efficient, with an EPA rating of 24 mpg combined and an observed 22.9 mpg. The CX-5 offered excellent visibility and a sophisticated driving experience, thanks to improvements in suspension and handling. It was quiet on highways and lively in city driving, with a ground clearance of 7.9 inches and a towing capacity of up to 2,000 pounds.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator featured a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. It offered various driving modes and adaptive air suspension, though it wasn't particularly exciting to drive. The Aviator's EPA rating was 20 mpg combined, but it achieved only 17.7 mpg in testing. The SUV provided clear sightlines and a 360-degree camera view for parking. While the ride was generally pleasant, the 22-inch wheels and tires struggled with rough surfaces, and the Aviator's handling lacked athleticism. The adaptive Air Glide suspension ensured a composed and calming ride.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 featured comfortable heated front seats with six-way power adjustment for the driver. Leather was standard on most trims, with premium Nappa leather on the top-tier model. The interior, though snug, was comfortable for four adults, with supportive rear seats and thoughtful design elements. The CX-5 offered 30 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 59.3 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator's Perfect Position front seats offered 30-way adjustment, heating, ventilation, and massage, providing exceptional comfort. The second-row captain's chairs were also roomy and supportive, though the third-row seats were less accommodating for adults. The Aviator excelled in storage space, with a well-designed center console and deep door pockets. It offered 19.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 78.6 cubic feet with all seats folded.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 eschewed touchscreens for traditional controls, though it allowed touchscreen operation for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 10.25-inch display was navigated using a console-mounted knob, and Mazda Connected Services offered features like remote engine starting and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The Carbon Turbo trim included a 10-speaker Bose sound system.

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, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the Google Assistant struggled with voice prompts in the test vehicle. The Aviator's 28-speaker Revel Ultima sound system delivered excellent audio quality, and the head-up display provided valuable driving information.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 came equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS), including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims offered additional safety features like adaptive headlights and a driver monitoring system. The CX-5 received five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover resistance rating.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator included the Lincoln Co-Pilot360 Drive 2.0 suite, featuring active blind-spot monitoring, intersection assist, and reverse braking assist. BlueCruise, a hands-free driving assistance system, was standard, offering a four-year subscription. The Aviator earned five-star ratings from the NHTSA and Good ratings from the IIHS, indicating strong safety performance.