2024 Mazda CX-90 vs 2025 Lincoln Aviator

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 was a bold step for Mazda, pushing the brand closer to the luxury segment traditionally dominated by European automakers. Its exterior design borrowed elegance from smaller Mazda models, but with a more imposing presence due to its larger size. The SUV's big grille, wide-set front end, and large wheels made it stand out, while tasteful chrome trim added a touch of sophistication. Inside, the CX-90 offered a range of trims, with top-tier models featuring luxurious materials like brown suede upholstery and wood inlays, rivaling more expensive luxury brands. Despite the variety in trims, all models benefited from Mazda's stylish design language and comfortable layout.

In contrast, the 2025 Lincoln Aviator maintained a classic design with a sports wagon-like silhouette, though the updated styling was seen as less elegant than previous versions. The interior exuded a classic architectural sensibility, focusing on comfort rather than overwhelming with technology. The Aviator's Perfect Position front seats offered exceptional comfort with 30-way adjustability, heating, ventilation, and massage functions. However, the third-row seating was less accommodating for adults. The Aviator's interior storage was well thought out, with ample space for personal items, though some luxury features like side window sunshades were missing.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 introduced two new powertrains, including a plug-in hybrid option and a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine. The Turbo S model delivered an impressive 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, providing a thrilling driving experience with a distinctive exhaust note. All models came with all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The CX-90's handling was exceptional, with a double-wishbone front suspension and agile steering, making it feel nimble despite its size. The PHEV model offered 323 horsepower and a 26-mile all-electric range, with an EPA estimate of 56 MPGe in combined driving.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator featured a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, producing 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. It offered multiple driving modes and adaptive air suspension, though it was not particularly exciting to drive. The Aviator excelled in providing a smooth and quiet ride, though the large wheels and tires could generate road noise on rough surfaces. The Aviator's adaptive Air Glide suspension ensured a composed and calming driving experience, with the ability to handle curves and dips effectively. However, the Aviator's steering and handling lacked the athleticism found in some competitors.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 offered various seating configurations, with the ability to seat up to eight passengers. The Turbo S model featured a two-seat third row, providing slightly more cargo space. Total cargo capacity reached 75.2 cubic feet, though it fell short compared to some competitors. The interior was thoughtfully designed with ample storage options and comfortable seating, enhanced by high-quality materials and a panoramic sunroof.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator's interior focused on comfort, with Perfect Position front seats offering extensive adjustability and massage functions. The second-row captain's chairs were also comfortable, though the third-row seating was less suitable for adults. The Aviator provided 19.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 78.6 cubic feet with all seats folded. Interior storage was well-designed, with numerous compartments and a large underfloor storage area.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 emphasized safety by minimizing distractions with its Mazda Connect infotainment system, which used a rotary control knob instead of a touchscreen. While the intention was to reduce distractions, the system's quirks could be frustrating. However, the CX-90 offered personalization software with facial recognition and standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, with touchscreen controls for these systems.

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 included Google Built-in and Alexa Built-in, along with 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 3D sound system provided excellent audio quality, and the head-up display offered comprehensive information.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 came standard with i-Activsense, a suite of advanced driver assistance systems, including blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. The CX-90's safety technology was well-regarded, though crash test ratings were not yet available.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator included the Lincoln Co-Pilot360 Drive 2.0 suite, featuring active blind-spot monitoring, intersection assist, and evasive steering assist. BlueCruise, a hands-free driving assistance system, was also standard. The Aviator received high safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS, indicating strong performance in crash tests.