2025 Mazda CX-50 vs 2025 Lincoln Aviator

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator was built on a rear-wheel-drive platform shared with the Ford Explorer, giving it classic design proportions. It featured a blunt nose, short front overhang, and an appealing dash-to-axle ratio. The tapered roofline and greenhouse created an alluring silhouette, though it compromised third-row passenger room. The design was fundamentally appealing, resembling a sports wagon more than an SUV. However, the 2025 styling tweaks made it appear less elegant and more generic, 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. The remote keyless entry fob was a letdown, but the Phone as a Key technology and touchpad entry system were positive features. The Aviator was available in Premiere, Reserve, and Black Label trims, with prices ranging from $60,990 to $89,090. Our test vehicle, in Reserve trim with optional AWD and several packages, had an MSRP of $83,550.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 was considered an attractive choice in the compact SUV class, borrowing styling elements from the CX-5 but enhancing them with distinct fender flares and a wider grille for a sportier stance. The interior featured a traditional layout with classier materials than rivals, including soft-touch materials and sturdy plastics. Distinct stitching and red leather upholstery (exclusive to the hybrid model) added flair. A decorative stripe on the seats provided visual interest, though its placement was awkward for some. Despite this, the CX-50 leaned toward entry-level luxury in design and interior quality.

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 Excite, Conserve, Normal, Slippery, and Deep Conditions driving modes. The adaptive air suspension firmed up in Excite mode, but the Aviator was more about comfort than excitement. The V6 provided ample power for acceleration and passing, though fuel economy was disappointing at 17.7 mpg observed, compared to the EPA rating of 20 mpg. The Aviator offered clear sightlines and a 360-degree camera view for parking. Ride quality was pleasant, but the 22-inch wheels and tires struggled with rough surfaces, generating road noise. The adaptive Air Glide suspension excelled at maintaining composure, but the Aviator's driving character was not sporty.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid debuted with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with three electric motors, producing 219 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque. It shared its powertrain with the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, offering AWD but not designed for serious off-road use. Acceleration was similar to the RAV4 Hybrid, with an estimated 0-60 mph time of 7.5 to 8 seconds. The e-CVT transmission replicated the feel of a conventional automatic. The CX-50 stood out with sportier suspension tuning, providing engaging handling and minimal body roll. The firmer ride quality was noticeable but not harsh, and the cabin remained quiet on the highway.

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 roomy and supportive, with heating and ventilation. However, the third-row seats were low and unsupportive, suitable only for children. Storage space was excellent, with a smartphone charging pad, trays, 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 the third row folded, and a maximum of 78.6 cubic feet.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 offered ample front seat space, but rear seat headroom and legroom were less than competitors like the Honda CR-V Hybrid and Sportage Hybrid. Personal storage was adequate, but rivals offered more. The CX-50's cargo capacity was 29.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats, less than the non-hybrid version and class average. However, the space was usable, with a power liftgate, storage bin, remote seatback releases, and hooks for convenience.

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. The 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D sound system was impressive, and the head-up display provided valuable information.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 had a 10.25-inch infotainment system controlled by a dial on the center console, with touchscreen functionality for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The dial controller was a throwback to earlier infotainment systems, preferred by some for ease of use. All models included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a wireless charging pad available on higher trims. The base audio system had eight speakers, while the Premium trim featured a 12-speaker Bose system.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator came with Lincoln Co-Pilot360 Drive 2.0, offering advanced driver assistance systems like active blind-spot monitoring, intersection assist, and evasive steering assist. Reverse braking assist was problematic in certain situations. Adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist worked well, and BlueCruise provided hands-free driving assistance on approved highways. The Aviator earned five-star NHTSA ratings and Good IIHS ratings.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid received five-star NHTSA ratings, except for rollover protection, which earned four stars. IIHS ratings were not available, but the non-hybrid 2024 model received a Top Safety Pick+ rating. The CX-50 included driver assistance features like frontal collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control, all functioning as designed.