2023 Lincoln Aviator vs 2024 Subaru Outback

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator presented a choice between powertrains, with a standard twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine available in various trims, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and options for rear-wheel or all-wheel drive. The Grand Touring models combined this V6 with a hybrid system, offering a 75-kilowatt electric motor and a 13.6-kilowatt-hour battery, standardizing AWD. Prices ranged from $53,340 to $89,280, excluding a $1,195 destination charge. The Black Label Grand Touring model, fully loaded with an optional paint job, reached an MSRP of $91,225. The Aviator was a stylish three-row SUV, though some wheel designs were less impressive. Its lighting features and interior design aimed for luxury, though some elements felt overdone or cheap.

The 2024 Subaru Outback maintained its rugged appeal with a refreshed Wilderness trim featuring a new front fascia and LED fog lights. The Autumn Green Metallic color of the Touring XT model was striking, complemented by tasteful chrome accents. Wheel designs varied across trims, with the Wilderness trim featuring matte black wheels. Inside, the top-trim model impressed with Java Brown Nappa leather upholstery, offering a level of luxury unexpected from Subaru. The Outback's interior was practical and comfortable, with different trims offering various materials and features, such as StarTex synthetic leather and cloth seats in lower trims.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring, a plug-in hybrid, delivered 494 horsepower and 630 lb-ft of torque. It offered 21 miles of electric range and averaged 23 mpg in hybrid mode. The Aviator featured multiple driving modes, including Pure EV and Preserve EV, to optimize battery use. During testing, it achieved 163.4 mpg equivalent over a short electric drive and averaged 24.3 mpg over a longer distance. The Aviator's power was evident, though its drivetrain could be unpredictable. The suspension handled well, but the driving experience lacked excitement, focusing on comfort and isolation.

The 2024 Subaru Outback offered a 2.5-liter flat-four engine with 182 horsepower, while XT trims, including the Wilderness, featured a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine with 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This setup increased towing capacity to 3,500 lbs. The CVT mimicked an eight-speed transmission, and the steering was adequate for a comfortable ride. The Outback's ground clearance was notable, with the Wilderness trim offering 9.2 inches and all-terrain tires. Subaru's X-Mode provided enhanced off-road capabilities, making the Outback versatile for various terrains.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator prioritized comfort with features like a four-zone climate control system, heated and ventilated seats, and massaging front seats. The second-row captain’s chairs were spacious, but the third row was cramped for adults. Cargo space was limited with all seats up, offering 18.3 cubic feet, but expanded to 77.7 cubic feet with the third row folded.

The 2024 Subaru Outback excelled in interior space, offering more headroom and legroom than competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. Cargo space was 32.6 cubic feet with seats up and 75.6 cubic feet with seats down. Features included dual-zone climate control, heated seats, and a hands-free power liftgate. The Outback's roof rails with retractable cross bars added practicality for outdoor enthusiasts.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator was equipped with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D audio system. However, the outdated Sync 3 software struggled with voice recognition. The SUV included wireless charging and a Phone As A Key system, along with a comprehensive head-up display and parking assistance features.

The 2024 Subaru Outback featured an 11.6-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, becoming wireless from the Premium trim. The Starlink system was dated, but climate controls were accessible via the touchscreen. Most trims included a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, and the vehicle offered both USB-C and USB-A ports.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator included Co-Pilot360 driver aids, with features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and evasive steering assist. It received a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.

The 2024 Subaru Outback earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a five-star NHTSA rating. It featured the EyeSight suite with adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and new additions like a wide-angle camera and driver-attention monitor on the Touring trim.