2025 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2025 Lincoln Aviator

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator, built on a rear-wheel-drive platform shared with the Ford Explorer, showcased classic design proportions. It featured a blunt nose, short front overhang, and an appealing dash-to-axle ratio, complemented by a tapered roofline that, while compromising third-row passenger room, created an alluring silhouette. Despite its SUV classification, the Aviator's design leaned more towards a sports wagon aesthetic. However, the 2025 styling updates were perceived as less elegant and more generic, particularly with the optional Jet Appearance Package. Inside, the Aviator offered a plush interior with a classic architectural sensibility, avoiding the overwhelming screens found in other Lincoln models. The traditional approach was appreciated, although the remote keyless entry fob was criticized for its cheap plastic construction. The Aviator was available in Premiere, Reserve, and Black Label trims, with our test vehicle in Reserve trim featuring optional AWD, Whisper Blue paint, and several packages, bringing the MSRP to $83,550.

In contrast, the 2025 Chevrolet Traverse impressed with its exterior styling, consistent with Chevrolet's recent SUV designs. The interior design was appealing, featuring digital instrumentation and Google-based infotainment systems. However, the quality of materials, particularly the hard, glossy plastic and Evotex artificial leather, detracted from the overall impression. The Traverse was available in LT, Z71, High Country, and RS trims, with base prices ranging from $41,095 to $55,495. Our test vehicle, a Z71 spec, included Radiant Red paint, a panoramic sunroof, and several packages, with an MSRP of $55,900. Despite its shortcomings in material quality, the Traverse offered a spacious and functional interior, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator was powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, delivering 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque through a 10-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain provided robust acceleration, although fuel economy was a concern, with an observed 17.7 mpg compared to the EPA's 20 mpg rating. The Aviator offered various driving modes, including Excite and Conserve, and featured adaptive air suspension for a comfortable ride. However, the heavy 22-inch wheels and thin tires affected ride quality on rough surfaces, and the steering lacked athleticism. Despite these drawbacks, the Aviator excelled as a composed and calming cruiser, with clear sightlines and a quiet interior.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse, equipped with a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, produced 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. While the engine's exhaust note was unrefined, it provided ample power for rapid acceleration, especially with AWD engaged. The Z71 trim, designed for off-road use, featured an off-road suspension, all-terrain tires, and a Twin Clutch AWD system. The Traverse handled trails and rough terrain effectively, with the Terrain mode optimizing power delivery. On paved roads, the Z71's suspension and tires offered a smooth ride, although the vehicle felt large and less sporty. The Traverse achieved an EPA-rated 21 mpg in combined driving, with our test vehicle averaging 21.5 mpg.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator offered exceptional comfort with its Perfect Position front seats, featuring 30-way adjustability, heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The second-row captain's chairs were also comfortable, with heating and ventilation, but the third-row seats were less accommodating for adults. Storage space was excellent, with a well-organized center console and deep door pockets. The Aviator provided 19.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 78.6 cubic feet with all seats folded.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse boasted a spacious interior, with ample width and an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat. The Z71's heated front seats and steering wheel added comfort during cold weather. The Traverse offered eight-passenger seating with a second-row bench or captain's chairs. The third-row seats were comfortable but lacked a view due to the rear window design. Storage space was commendable, with 22.9 cubic feet behind the third row and a maximum of 97.6 cubic feet. However, folding the third row required adjusting the second-row seats.

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. While the system included Google Built-in and Alexa, voice recognition was unreliable in our test vehicle. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto worked well, and the 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D sound system delivered excellent audio quality. The Aviator's head-up display was praised for its widescreen presentation and useful data.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse impressed with its standard 17.7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Google Built-in, Alexa compatibility, and wireless smartphone integration. The system was user-friendly, with effective voice recognition and a simple interface. The Traverse also offered an 11-inch digital instrumentation panel with customizable views. Optional features included a digital rearview mirror and a high-definition surround-view camera system, enhancing convenience and safety.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator came equipped with Lincoln Co-Pilot360 Drive 2.0, offering a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems. Notable features included active blind-spot monitoring, intersection assist, and evasive steering assist. BlueCruise, a hands-free driving assistance system, was standard, providing a proactive and reliable experience. The Aviator received five-star ratings from the NHTSA and Good ratings from the IIHS, indicating strong safety performance.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse offered a robust set of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keep assist. The Driver Confidence Package added a surround-view camera system and traffic sign recognition. The Enhanced Driving Package included Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid, and remote-parking technology. The Traverse earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick" award from the IIHS.