Porsche Cayenne vs Lincoln Aviator

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. However, the 2025 styling updates 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 traditional design was complemented by advanced technology, though the remote keyless entry fob was criticized for its cheap feel. 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 MSRP to $83,550.

In contrast, the 2025 Porsche Cayenne offered a choice between a standard SUV with a squared-off rear end and a sporty Cayenne Coupe. The GTS trim level, which we focused on, featured high gloss black trim, bronze exhaust tips, and a unique front fascia with larger air intakes. The GTS also boasted tinted headlights, red brake calipers, and 21-inch wheels. Inside, the Cayenne allowed for extensive customization, from color choices to seat belts, though pricing could become steep. The cabin layout was well-organized, with mechanical controls for essential features and a shifter toggle on the dashboard for added storage space. The center console's tendency to slide was a minor drawback in an otherwise thoughtfully designed interior.

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. The adaptive air suspension firmed up in Excite mode, though the Aviator was not particularly thrilling to drive. The V6 provided ample power for acceleration and passing, but fuel economy was disappointing at 17.7 mpg during testing. The Aviator's sightlines were clear, aided by thin windshield pillars and large side mirrors. However, the ride quality suffered on rough roads due to the heavy 22-inch wheels and thin tires, generating noticeable road noise. The adaptive Air Glide suspension excelled at maintaining composure, but the Aviator's driving character was more about comfort than athleticism.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne offered a range of engines, with the GTS trim featuring a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 producing 493 horsepower and 486 lb-ft of torque. An eight-speed transmission delivered power to all four wheels, allowing the Cayenne to reach 60 mph in 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 171 mph. The GTS struck a balance between sporty and comfortable, with precise steering and a low center of gravity. The Pirelli P Zero tires, stiffer roll bars, and active suspension contributed to its agility. Sport and Sport Plus modes enhanced throttle and transmission response, while Normal mode provided a comfortable commute. The optional carbon ceramic brakes required adjustment but offered strong stopping power. The Cayenne's versatility allowed for sporty driving without sacrificing daily comfort.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator's Perfect Position front seats offered 30-way adjustability, heating, ventilation, and massage, ensuring comfort. The second-row captain's chairs were roomy and supportive, though lacking massage functions. The third-row seats were less accommodating for adults, with limited legroom and low cushions. Storage space was excellent, with a smartphone charging pad, cupholders, and a sizable bin in the center console. 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 Porsche Cayenne offered limited standard features, with eight-way power-adjustable seats and two-zone climate control. The GTS trim added a GT Sport steering wheel and Race-Tex headliner. The options list was extensive, allowing for customization of materials and features. The Cayenne accommodated five passengers, with ample headroom in the second row. Cargo space was smaller than competitors, with 27.3 cubic feet behind the second row and 60 cubic feet with seats folded. The coupe version offered less space, and plug-in hybrid models further reduced cargo capacity.

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, making Apple CarPlay and Siri more reliable. The 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D sound system provided excellent audio quality. The head-up display offered a widescreen presentation of data, enhancing safety and convenience.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne boasted a curved 12.6-inch digital gauge cluster and a 12.3-inch touchscreen display with Porsche Communication Management. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Spotify, Apple Music, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. An optional 10.9-inch passenger screen allowed for navigation and media control. The head-up display provided essential information, though it appeared dim with polarized sunglasses. The Cayenne included four USB-C charging ports and a cooled wireless charging area.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator came equipped with Lincoln Co-Pilot360 Drive 2.0, offering advanced driver assistance systems like active blind-spot monitoring, intersection assist, and evasive steering assist. Adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist worked effectively, and BlueCruise provided hands-free driving assistance on approved highways. The Aviator earned five-star ratings from the NHTSA and Good ratings from the IIHS, indicating strong safety performance.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne offered standard parking sensors, forward collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring. However, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and lane-departure warning were optional. The Cayenne lacked a hands-off driving assist system. Neither the NHTSA nor the IIHS had rated the 2025 Cayenne for safety.