2021 Lincoln Aviator vs 2022 Acura MDX

Formerly in the market, the 2021 Lincoln Aviator impressed with its distinct design choices. Lincoln astutely avoided the pitfalls of mimicking its rivals, opting instead for a style uniquely its own. Its lineage to the larger Navigator was evident, with the Aviator inheriting crisply defined lines and a generous use of chrome, giving it a sharp, sophisticated look. Inside, Lincoln set it apart from its Ford counterpart with a high-end, comfort-focused cabin. Despite sharing a platform with the Ford Explorer, the cabin of the Aviator was a world apart, defined by its soft-touch materials, chrome accents, and comprehensive focus on comfort. The centrally rising center console elegantly housed a 10.1-inch touchscreen, seamlessly integrating modern technology with classic aesthetics. One unique feature was the piano button shifter, which, while different, was intuitively placed and contributed to the overall air of luxury.

When discussing trims, the Aviator showcased a broad spectrum. From the Standard trim featuring synthetic leather upholstery and tri-zone climate control to the Reserve with upgraded leather, four-zone climate control, and a 12-speaker Revel premium stereo system, the luxury was palpable. The Grand Touring trim, with a plug-in hybrid powertrain and additional comfort features, stood out for its practicality and luxury. The upper-tier Black Label trim further emphasized convenience and luxury with features like a head-up display and a 28-speaker Revel Ultima sound system, making the Aviator a significant contender in luxury and comfort.

Conversely, the 2022 Acura MDX was a pioneer in the three-row luxury crossover SUV category. Redesigned on a dedicated platform, the MDX boasted enhanced proportions and a notably elongated wheelbase for a stately yet sporty stance. Its exterior, featuring Acura’s Jewel Eye LED headlights and larger wheels, presented a modern and assertive look built with craftsmanship in Ohio.

Inside, the MDX was precision-engineered for a spacious and luxurious feel. The layered dashboard created an expansive visual, coupled with premium materials like natural wood, genuine aluminum, and high-quality plastics. The center console’s unique fighter-jet-inspired gear selection and multiple control elements added a futuristic touch. The 12.3-inch non-touchscreen infotainment display was strategically placed to ensure driver safety, reflecting Acura’s dedication to thoughtful design.

The MDX offered a variety of interior themes and exterior colors to cater to different tastes, enhancing its allure as a luxury vehicle designed for both function and elegance.

Previously, the 2021 Lincoln Aviator delivered robust performance across its trims. Standard, Reserve, and Black Label trims came equipped with a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine producing 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission available in rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The Grand Touring and Grand Touring Black Label trims elevated the Aviator with a hybrid configuration, boosting output to an impressive 494 horsepower and 630 pound-feet of torque. This setup allowed for up to 21 miles of pure electric driving while maintaining vigorous acceleration. However, the Aviator's substantial build translated to some noticeable body roll in corners and a slightly cumbersome feel in tight spaces.

The Aviator’s drive mode selector offered unique settings like "Excite" and "Conserve," which aptly described the driving experience. Despite not being a performance SUV, the Aviator excelled in highway and suburban drives, though city navigation could be less smooth.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura MDX was equipped exclusively with a 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine, delivering 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque through a new 10-speed automatic transmission. Available in front-wheel drive or with the advanced Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), the MDX was notable for its torque vectoring capabilities, enhancing cornering control and steering feel, making it more agile in turns. The fourth-generation SH-AWD system notably improved performance off the line by directing more torque to the rear wheels.

The MDX's revamped suspension included a double-wishbone front setup and revised rear multi-link, resulting in superior sporty handling and ride quality. Enhanced with bigger disc brakes and improved steering dynamics, the MDX offered a stiffer and more confident driving experience. The Integrated Dynamics System provided five drive modes, adjusting various vehicle parameters for optimal performance based on driving conditions, further solidifying the MDX’s reputation for dynamic and agile driving.

When comparing cargo capacities, the 2021 Lincoln Aviator provided substantial space with 18.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expandable to 41.8 cubic feet with the third row folded. With all seats down, the total cargo volume reached 77.7 cubic feet, respectable for a midsize luxury SUV. A notable feature was the powered third-row seats in our test model, which enhanced convenience. The second-row captain’s chairs and the digital control panel further accentuated the comfort and utility of the Aviator.

On the other hand, the 2022 Acura MDX demonstrated impressive versatility. With between 16.3 and 18.1 cubic feet of luggage space behind the third row plus an additional 1.8 cubic feet underfloor, it provided practical storage solutions. Folding down the third row expanded the capacity to a range of 39.1 to 48.4 cubic feet, and with the second row down, the maximum cargo space ranged from 71.4 to 95 cubic feet, making it a standout in terms of hauling capability. The MDX's sliding and reclining second-row seats and the easily accessed third row added to its utility as a family hauler. The enhanced “Grab ‘N Go” tailgate functionality and customizable interior lighting further bolstered the MDX’s appeal.

Technologically, the 2021 Lincoln Aviator was well-endowed. The central 10.1-inch touchscreen running Sync 3 infotainment offered a user-friendly interface, bolstered by standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This screen’s landscape orientation was more practical compared to the vertically mounted one in the Explorer, enhancing usability. The Aviator incorporated a fully digital instrument panel and an optional head-up display, providing clear and concise information to the driver, cementing the vehicle’s modern technological credentials.

Highlighting the 2022 Acura MDX’s tech prowess, the available ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System offered 16 speakers with 710 watts, delivering an exceptional auditory experience. Other models came with varying levels of audio quality, still impressive within the luxury segment. The MDX featured a 12.3-inch landscape-oriented infotainment screen and a 12.3-inch Acura Precision Cockpit display, both highly configurable. Integrated with Amazon Alexa, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, the MDX also provided wireless device charging and a head-up display in higher trims. The CabinTalk feature and over-the-air updates rounded out a comprehensive suite of technological advancements.

Safety was a strength for the 2021 Lincoln Aviator, which came standard with Lincoln Co-Pilot 360, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Co-Pilot 360 Plus package on our test model added adaptive cruise control and self-parking functionality. The Aviator earned top marks from both the NHTSA and IIHS, underscoring its strong safety profile.

Though crash test ratings for the 2022 Acura MDX were pending at the time, its predecessor’s strong results and the extensive use of high-strength steel hinted at continued excellence. The MDX featured a pedestrian-friendly front end design, a low-speed braking control system, and the full suite of AcuraWatch safety technologies, including collision mitigation braking and traffic jam assist, ensuring a comprehensive approach to occupant safety.