Lincoln Aviator vs Lexus TX

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator, built on a rear-wheel-drive platform shared with the Ford Explorer, showcased classic design proportions. Its blunt nose, short front overhang, and appealing dash-to-axle ratio contributed to its sports wagon-like appearance, despite being an SUV. The tapered roofline and greenhouse added to its allure, though they compromised third-row passenger space. The interior, accessed through electronic door releases, exuded a classic architectural sensibility, favoring a traditional approach over screen-heavy designs. However, the remote keyless entry fob was a letdown, made of cheap plastic and oversized, though it encouraged the use of the Aviator’s Phone as a Key technology.

In contrast, the 2026 Lexus TX offered a variety of trim levels, with the 550h+ plug-in hybrid standing out due to its standard panoramic glass roof and striking Matador Red Mica paint. The exterior retained a large grille reminiscent of the older spindle grille shape, complemented by sharp bi-LED headlights and rear LED lighting. Inside, the TX provided ambient lighting and suede trim, though overall material quality fell short of luxury standards. Redesigned door handles, which reacted to pressure rather than pulling out, were a curious choice, and the interior lacked the attention to detail expected in a luxury vehicle.

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, Conserve, Normal, Slippery, and Deep Conditions. Despite its power, the Aviator prioritized comfort over excitement, with adaptive air suspension providing a smooth ride in Normal mode. However, the 22-inch wheels and thin tires struggled on anything but smooth pavement, generating noticeable road noise. The Aviator’s EPA fuel economy rating was 20 mpg combined, though real-world testing yielded 17.7 mpg.

The 2026 Lexus TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid combined a 3.5-liter V6 with a hybrid system to produce 404 horsepower. It featured multiple drive modes, including Normal, Eco, Sport, and Custom, with Sport mode enhancing throttle sensitivity. The TX offered a quiet and smooth ride, seamlessly switching between gas and electric power. Its AWD system could distribute power variably between the front and rear wheels, with a Trail Mode for slippery surfaces. The onboard seven-kilowatt charger allowed for a full battery charge in under three hours, providing flexibility for different driving scenarios.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator boasted 30-way adjustable Perfect Position front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions, ensuring comfort. The second-row captain’s chairs, though less adjustable, were roomy and supportive. However, the third-row seats were cramped and uncomfortable for adults. The Aviator excelled in storage, with a smartphone charging pad, deep door pockets, and a sizable center console. Cargo space was generous, offering 19.2 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 78.6 cubic feet with all seats folded.

The 2026 Lexus TX 550h+ provided standard luxury features, including multi-zone climate control and heated seats. The third row was spacious, accommodating adults comfortably, with a recline function and USB-C ports. However, folding the second row flat was cumbersome due to a series of levers. The front seats lacked thigh support, but the heating function was excellent. Cargo space was impressive, with 20.2 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 97 cubic feet with all seats folded. The TX could tow up to 5,000 pounds, adding to its practicality.

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, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the Google Assistant struggled with voice prompts, though Apple CarPlay worked seamlessly. The 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D sound system delivered excellent audio quality, and the head-up display provided valuable information, including blind-spot warnings.

The 2026 Lexus TX offered a 14-inch touchscreen, though some features lacked polish, such as the inability to manually input satellite radio stations. Steering wheel controls were multifunctional but confusing, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto occasionally conflicted with the native audio system. The backup camera provided a clear view, and the Advanced Park system handled parking duties. The TX included seven USB ports and wireless charging, ensuring devices stayed powered.

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

The 2026 Lexus TX included Safety System+ 3.0, with features like forward collision warning, Lane Tracing Assist, and Proactive Driving Assist. Adaptive cruise control worked well, though setting it up was confusing. The TX 350 and 500h received five-star ratings from the NHTSA, while the IIHS gave the TX an Acceptable rating for the driver’s side small overlap front crash test and Good for the passenger’s side.