2022 Mazda CX-5 vs 2023 Lincoln Aviator

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 featured new LED headlights and taillights, offering more distinctive illumination. It also had updated bumpers, a revised grille, a redesigned rear liftgate, and new alloy wheel designs. The top-of-the-line Signature trim received body-color lower exterior trim, emphasizing Mazda’s aim to become a premium brand. Inside, the CX-5 retained its luxurious feel with premium Nappa leather upholstery, real wood trim, and polished metallic accents. The seats were new for 2022, providing improved comfort.

In contrast, the 2023 Lincoln Aviator presented a more opulent and complex interior. The Black Label Grand Touring trim boasted patterned metal trim, gloss black surfaces, chrome accents, and rich caramel-hued leather seats. The cabin materials were mostly high-end, including soft leather and a simulated suede headliner. However, some chrome detailing and stitching appeared less luxurious. The Aviator also featured electric, light-touch door handles and soft-close doors, enhancing the premium feel.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S came with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. It had a revised six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive (AWD). The EPA rated its fuel economy at 26 mpg combined. The 2.5 Turbo variant offered 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium gas, or 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular gas, with an EPA rating of 24 mpg combined. The CX-5 featured Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive) with Normal, Sport, and Off-Road settings, and improved structural rigidity and suspension tuning for a quieter, smoother ride.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring, a plug-in hybrid, combined a twin-turbo V6 with an electric motor, producing 494 hp and 630 lb-ft of torque. It offered 21 miles of electric driving range and 23 mpg combined in hybrid mode. The Aviator featured multiple driving modes, including Pure EV, Preserve EV, Conserve, Normal, and Excite, as well as Slippery, Deep Conditions, and Tow/Haul. The Aviator’s Dynamic Handling Package with adaptive-damping Active Glide suspension provided a smooth, quiet ride, though it lacked the fun-to-drive factor.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 addressed previous complaints with new, more comfortable seats and a sportier driving position. The interior featured dual-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The back seat remained snug but included heated outboard cushions and air conditioning vents. Cargo space was 30.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 59.3 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator prioritized comfort with a four-zone automatic climate control system, heated and ventilated front and second-row seats, and massaging 30-way Perfect Position front seats. The second-row captain’s chairs were roomy and supportive, but the third-row seat was cramped and difficult to access. Cargo space was 18.3 cubic feet with the third row in use, 41.8 cubic feet with it folded, and 77.7 cubic feet maximum.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 featured a Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 10.25-inch display, controlled via center console and steering wheel controls. It lacked a touchscreen and natural voice recognition, making it less user-friendly. Standard tech included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, text-messaging support, E911 automatic emergency notification, and a three-year trial of Mazda Connected Services. Higher trims added a 10-speaker Bose premium sound system and SiriusXM satellite radio.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Black Label Grand Touring came with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Alexa integration, Lincoln Connect, SiriusXM satellite radio, and navigation. It used the older Sync 3 software, which struggled with voice recognition. The Aviator also featured a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D audio system, wireless charging, Phone As A Key digital key system, digital instrumentation, and a comprehensive head-up display. Parking sensors and a surround-view camera system were also included.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 included a comprehensive i-Activsense package with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims added adaptive headlights, a surround-view camera system, parking sensors, automatic rear braking, and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 received a “Top Safety Pick+” rating from the IIHS.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator offered Co-Pilot360 1.5, 1.5 Plus, and 2.0 driver aids, including adaptive cruise control, road-sign recognition, pedestrian detection, forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, lane-centering assist, and evasive steering assist. The Aviator received a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.