Lincoln Aviator vs Chevrolet Trax

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator, a product of Ford's luxury division, embodies the "Quiet Flight" ethos with its blend of comfort, luxury, and high-tech features. The Aviator Black Label Grand Touring model, in particular, demonstrates this concept through its smooth performance and luxurious appointments. For 2023, the Aviator lineup introduces the Jet Package and Special Edition Luxe Package, enhancing its grand touring models without altering the fundamental qualities of the lineup. In contrast, the 2024 Chevrolet Trax represents a bold reimagining of the original subcompact crossover concept. Discontinued after the 2022 model year, the Trax returns with a significant redesign that increases its size, enhances its styling, and incorporates modern technology features. Positioned as Chevy's entry-level model, the Trax competes against the Hyundai Venue and Nissan Kicks, aiming to retain owners of discontinued small Chevy cars by offering a blend of car and crossover attributes.

In terms of performance, the Aviator Grand Touring's plug-in hybrid system produces 494 horsepower and offers an electric range of 21 miles, achieving an average of 23 mpg in hybrid mode. Its driving modes and adaptive suspension cater to a smooth and efficient ride, though it sometimes lacks the fun-to-drive factor. The Trax, with its new 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine, delivers 137 horsepower and improved acceleration over its predecessor. Despite its smaller size and comparatively anemic powertrain, the Trax offers spirited performance and car-like handling, making it enjoyable to drive while also achieving respectable fuel efficiency.

For the 2023 Lincoln Aviator, luxury and comfort extend beyond just the drive and into every aspect of its design. The cabin boasts advanced features such as a four-zone automatic climate control system, massaging front seats, and a panoramic sunroof, all aimed at enhancing passenger comfort. The second-row captain’s chairs offer spacious and supportive seating, though the third-row access and space are limited, making it less suitable for adult passengers. In terms of luggage capacity, the Aviator provides 18.3 cubic feet of cargo space with the third row in use. Folding down the third-row seats expands the cargo area to 41.8 cubic feet, with a maximum cargo capacity of 77.7 cubic feet available, making it both a comfortable and practical choice for families and long journeys. The 2024 Chevrolet Trax, on the other hand, showcases a thoughtful redesign that balances passenger comfort with practical needs. The increase in vehicle size translates to an enhanced rear-seat legroom of three more inches and a slight increase in front-seat legroom, though at the expense of some headroom and shoulder room. This adjustment ensures a more snug and comfortable seating arrangement, particularly in the rear. The Trax's cargo space sees a roughly 12% increase, offering 25.6 cubic feet behind the second row and expanding to 54.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. This capacity makes the Trax a competitive player in the subcompact crossover market, adept at accommodating both passengers and their gear with ease.

Technology in the Aviator includes a 10.1-inch touchscreen with various connectivity options, though it runs on the older Sync 3 software which may detract from user experience. The Trax makes significant advances in infotainment with up to an 11-inch touchscreen and wireless connectivity features, offering a more modern and user-friendly system.

The Aviator comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver aids, earning top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA. The Trax, while not yet rated, offers a solid range of standard and optional safety features, including Chevy's Teen Driver system.

The Aviator's pricing reflects its luxury status, with a range of ownership benefits and high-end features justifying its cost. The Trax, more affordable and efficient, offers strong value in the subcompact crossover segment.