2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2025 Lincoln Aviator

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS exuded a refined elegance that, while bordering on understated, promised longevity in its appeal. The GLS 450 test vehicle, adorned with 22-inch AMG rims, a new silver four-louver grille, and polished metal accents, stood out in its Twilight Blue paint. Inside, the GLS 450 featured a Bahia Brown over Black interior with natural-grain Grey Oak, polished aluminum accents, and the signature rich detailing of Mercedes interiors, creating a luxurious environment. The GLS 450, the entry-level model, was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, offering a balance of performance and efficiency.

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 updates, particularly with the Jet Appearance Package, made it appear more generic. Inside, the Aviator offered a plush interior with a classic architectural sensibility, avoiding the screen-heavy approach of other Lincoln models. The Aviator's remote keyless entry fob, however, was a letdown in terms of quality. The Aviator was available in Premiere, Reserve, and Black Label trims, with our test vehicle in Reserve trim featuring optional AWD and a host of luxury features, bringing its MSRP to $83,550.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450, with its turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine, delivered 375 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. It accelerated to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, providing smooth and seamless acceleration. The mild-hybrid system added an instant 148 lb-ft of torque, enhancing its lively feel from a stop. A nine-speed automatic transmission and variable 4Matic all-wheel-drive system offered versatility with Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual driving modes. The GLS 450 had a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds and a combined fuel economy rating of 21 mpg, though our test yielded 19.9 mpg. The adaptive air suspension and massive Continental tires contributed to its athleticism, while the brakes performed admirably. The Off-Road menu in MBUX and the optional Off-Road Package in the GLS 580 added to its versatility.

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 Excite, Conserve, Normal, Slippery, and Deep Conditions driving modes, with adaptive air suspension firming up in Excite mode. Despite its power, the Aviator prioritized comfort over excitement, with a combined fuel economy rating of 20 mpg, though our test returned 17.7 mpg. The Aviator provided clear sightlines and a 360-degree camera view for urban driving. However, the ride quality suffered on rough surfaces due to the 22-inch wheels and thin tires. The adaptive Air Glide suspension ensured a composed ride, but the Aviator lacked the athleticism of some competitors.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS, with the AMG Line package, featured sportier styling but posed challenges with side sill trim during entry and exit. The front seats offered comfort with leather surfaces, heating, ventilation, and massage programs. The new steering wheel, though delightful to grip, had touch-sensing controls that could be irritating. The Exclusive Trim Package added heated rear seats and a four-zone climate control system. The second-row captain’s chairs provided excellent thigh support, while the third-row seat was snug for adults but suitable for children. Cargo space was practical, with 17.4 cubic feet behind the third row, 42.7 cubic feet behind the second row, and a maximum of 84.7 cubic feet.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator's Perfect Position front seats offered 30-way adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage, ensuring comfort. 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 low, flat cushions and limited legroom. Storage space was excellent, with a center console featuring a smartphone charging pad and a sizable bin under the armrest. The Aviator provided 19.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 42.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 78.6 cubic feet. The absence of side window sunshades was notable for a luxury SUV.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the latest MBUX infotainment system with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen. The system offered improved graphics and themes, but touch-sensitive areas on the steering wheel and center console caused occasional frustration. Despite this, MBUX was intuitive, with outstanding natural voice recognition and augmented reality for navigation. The Burmester surround-sound system with Dolby Atmos technology enhanced the audio experience.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator's 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster and 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system were powered by Lincoln Digital Experience, featuring Google Built-in and Alexa Built-in, along with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the Google Assistant struggled with voice prompts in our test vehicle. The 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D sound system provided excellent audio quality. The Aviator's head-up display offered a widescreen presentation of data, including lane departure warnings and blind-spot alerts.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS came equipped with over 20 significant safety features, adjustable through MBUX. The advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) were praised for their effectiveness, with features like forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist systems performed smoothly on various road conditions, with only a minor issue on a two-lane road.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator featured the Lincoln Co-Pilot360 Drive 2.0 suite, including active blind-spot monitoring, intersection assist, and evasive steering assist. The reverse braking assist system required deactivation due to its sensitivity. Adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist worked well, with BlueCruise offering hands-free driving on approved highways. The Aviator earned five-star ratings from NHTSA and Good ratings from IIHS, indicating strong safety performance.