2025 Lincoln Aviator vs 2025 Nissan Pathfinder

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. The design leaned more towards a sports wagon than a traditional SUV, though the 2025 styling updates were perceived as 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. However, the remote keyless entry fob was criticized for its cheap plastic construction, though this might encourage the use of the Aviator’s Phone as a Key technology.

The Aviator was available in Premiere, Reserve, and Black Label trims, with prices ranging from $60,990 to $89,090, including destination charges. The test vehicle, in Reserve trim with optional AWD and Whisper Blue paint, was equipped with Reserve II, Jet Appearance, and Dynamic Handling packages, totaling an MSRP of $83,550. The Reserve II Package added numerous features, including upgraded exterior lighting, 30-way-adjustable Perfect Position front seats with massage, heated and ventilated second-row seats, a 28-speaker Revel Ultima audio system, and 22-inch wheels.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder, tested in the challenging conditions near Mount Rainier National Park, proved its mettle with the Rock Creek trim. Equipped with 3-Peak Mud-and-Snow-rated Toyo Open Country AT3 tires, standard AWD, and seven selectable driving modes, including a dedicated snow mode, the Pathfinder handled the snowy terrain with ease. The Rock Creek trim's adventurous look was enhanced by 18-inch beadlock-style wheels and a V-Motion grille with contrasting trim elements. Despite its rugged appearance, the Pathfinder was a unibody crossover, lacking additional ground clearance and protective skid plates, making it suitable for light off-roading.

The Pathfinder, redesigned for 2022, was available in S, SV, Rock Creek, SL, and Platinum trims. The Rock Creek trim featured leatherette-and-cloth upholstery with bright orange "Rock Creek" logos, while the SL and Platinum trims offered full leather and quilted semi-aniline leather, respectively. The Pathfinder's interior was comfortable, with a three-zone climate control system and a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat in the Rock Creek trim. However, the heated steering wheel was only available on the SL and Platinum trims. Despite mixed reactions to the Rock Creek's vibrant stitching, the Pathfinder's interior was generally well-received, offering comfort and solid material 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. Drivers could choose from Excite, Conserve, Normal, Slippery, and Deep Conditions driving modes. The test vehicle featured adaptive air suspension, which firmed up in Excite mode, though the Aviator was not particularly exciting to drive. The EPA fuel economy rating was 20 mpg combined, but the test yielded 17.7 mpg. The Aviator offered clear sightlines and a 360-degree camera view for parking. However, the ride quality was affected by the 22-inch wheels and thin tires, generating noticeable road noise. The adaptive Air Glide suspension ensured a composed and calming ride, though the Aviator lacked athleticism.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder was equipped with a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque in most trims, while the Rock Creek trim offered 295 hp and 270 lb-ft. A nine-speed automatic transmission handled the power, with the Platinum and Rock Creek trims featuring a transmission oil cooler for a 6,000-pound towing capacity. The Pathfinder's soft suspension provided a comfortable ride on bumpy roads but felt floaty on twisty roads. The Rock Creek trim was best suited for light off-roading. The Pathfinder's fuel economy was 20 mpg city, 23 highway, and 21 combined, with the Rock Creek trim averaging 20.8 mpg. The Pathfinder offered seven drive modes and hill-descent control, with snow mode providing necessary traction in snowy conditions.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator offered 30-way adjustable Perfect Position front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions, providing exceptional comfort. The second-row captain's chairs were roomy and supportive, with heating and ventilation. However, the third-row seats were low and unsupportive, with limited legroom. The Aviator excelled in storage space, with a smartphone charging pad, cupholders, and a sizable bin in the center console. The third-row seat provided 19.2 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 42.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 78.6 cubic feet.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder, though smaller than some competitors, offered ample interior space. During a ski trip with four adults, the Pathfinder accommodated skis, luggage, and groceries comfortably. It provided 16.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 45 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 80.5 cubic feet with both rows down. The Pathfinder featured three-zone climate control and comfortable seats, with the Rock Creek trim offering a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat. The EZ Flex Seating System allowed easy access to the third row without removing car 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. It supported Google Built-in, Alexa Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. However, the Google Assistant struggled with voice prompts. 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.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder's infotainment system lagged behind competitors, with an 8-inch screen in lower trims and a 9-inch screen in SL and Platinum trims. The software was functional but dated, with physical buttons and rotary knobs for ease of use. The Pathfinder offered a 6-speaker stereo, with a 13-speaker Bose system available on higher trims. NissanConnect supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with wireless projection for Apple devices on the 9-inch screen. The Pathfinder's tech was less advanced compared to rivals.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator came with Lincoln Co-Pilot360 Drive 2.0, featuring active blind-spot monitoring, intersection assist, evasive steering assist, and reverse braking assist. Adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist were standard, with BlueCruise offering hands-free driving assistance. The Aviator earned five-star ratings from NHTSA and Good ratings from IIHS.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder received a Top Safety Pick+ award from IIHS and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA. It featured blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic emergency braking, and rear automatic braking. Adaptive cruise control and ProPilot Assist were standard on all but the base trim, with traffic sign recognition on higher trims.