2025 Lincoln Aviator vs 2025 Lexus GX

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator, built on a rear-wheel-drive platform shared with the Ford Explorer, showcased classic design proportions with a blunt nose, short front overhang, and a sleek dash-to-axle ratio. Its tapered roofline and greenhouse added to its allure, though they compromised third-row passenger space. The Aviator's design leaned more towards a sports wagon aesthetic, but the 2025 styling updates made it appear less distinctive, especially with the optional Jet Appearance Package. Inside, the Aviator offered a plush interior with a classic architectural sensibility, avoiding the screen-heavy approach of other Lincoln models. However, the remote keyless entry fob was a letdown, made of cheap plastic and oversized, though the Phone as a Key technology offered a modern alternative. The Aviator was available in Premiere, Reserve, and Black Label trims, with our test vehicle in Reserve trim featuring optional AWD and several packages, bringing its price to $83,550.

The 2025 Lexus GX underwent a significant redesign, presenting a striking new look reminiscent of classic Land Rover models. Its boxy shape, LED headlights, and well-proportioned grille gave it a brawny yet refined appearance. The GX 550 Overtrail+ test vehicle featured 33-inch tires on matte grey 18-inch wheels, rock rails, and a distinctive Earth color. Inside, the GX maintained a clean and elegant design with quality switchgear and chic dashboard layout. The front and rear seats offered ample headroom and legroom, with our tester equipped with a head-up display and comfortable NuLuxe faux leather seats. Visibility was excellent, aided by tall windows and elevated ride height, making the GX a luxurious and spacious option 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. It offered various driving modes, including Excite and Conserve, with adaptive air suspension enhancing the ride. Despite its power, the Aviator prioritized comfort over excitement, with a focus on a composed and calming driving experience. The EPA-rated fuel economy was 20 mpg combined, though our test observed 17.7 mpg. The Aviator provided clear sightlines and a 360-degree camera for urban driving, but its ride quality suffered on rough roads due to heavy 22-inch wheels and thin tires. The adaptive Air Glide suspension effectively managed body motions, ensuring a secure and comfortable ride.

The 2025 Lexus GX featured a twin-turbo 3.4-liter V6 engine, producing 349 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, paired with full-time 4WD and a 10-speed automatic transmission. It accelerated from 0-60 mph in 6.5 seconds, outperforming its predecessor. The GX's performance was robust, with ample power across the rev band, though the transmission occasionally lagged. Its EPA-rated fuel economy was 15 mpg city, 21 mpg highway, and 17 mpg combined, with our test achieving 14.9 mpg. The GX excelled in off-road conditions, with features like a locking center differential and downhill assist control enhancing its capability. On-road, it offered good ride quality, though the rear axle exhibited some jiggliness. The GX's off-road prowess and comfortable highway manners made it a versatile choice.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator offered luxurious comfort with its Perfect Position front seats, featuring 30-way adjustability, heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The second-row captain's chairs were roomy and supportive, though 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 42.7 cubic feet with it folded, and a maximum of 78.6 cubic feet with all seats down.

The 2025 Lexus GX catered to tall passengers with generous headroom and legroom across its rows. The GX's cargo space was impressive, offering 10.3 cubic feet with all seats up, 40.2 cubic feet with the third row stowed, and 76.9 cubic feet with both rows folded. The Overtrail trim, without a third row, provided a massive 90.5 cubic feet of space. The GX's dimensions allowed for easy maneuverability in tight spaces, making it a practical choice for urban environments.

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, Alexa Built-in, and 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 delivered excellent audio quality, and the head-up display provided valuable driving information.

The 2025 Lexus GX boasted a user-friendly infotainment system with a 12.3-inch gauge cluster and a 14-inch touchscreen. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth. The Mark Levinson Premium Audio system offered good sound quality, though it required higher volume at highway speeds. The GX provided ample USB-C ports for connectivity and charging, with a spacious armrest storage area.

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

The 2025 Lexus GX included Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assistance, and pedestrian detection. The GX's driver-assist systems operated smoothly, and its 360-degree camera system aided visibility. While not yet rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, the GX offered 10 airbags for occupant protection.