2023 Lincoln Aviator vs 2024 Volvo XC90

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator presented itself as a sophisticated three-row, midsize SUV, boasting a modern Lincoln design that was both appealing and luxurious. It offered a choice between a standard twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine and a plug-in hybrid variant, the latter combining a 10-speed hybrid automatic transmission with a 75-kilowatt electric motor and a 13.6-kilowatt-hour battery pack. The Aviator's interior was a blend of high-end materials, including soft leather and a simulated suede headliner, though some chrome detailing felt less premium. The Black Label Grand Touring model, priced at $91,225, featured a lavish cabin with a rich caramel-hued leather theme, though it was criticized for its plain wheel design and overly complex interior styling.

In contrast, the 2024 Volvo XC90 exuded a sense of understated luxury with its earthy exterior paint palette and a choice of elegant wheel designs. The XC90 was available in B5, B6, and Recharge T8 model series, with the Recharge T8 offering a plug-in hybrid powertrain that delivered 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque. The interior, though dated, was crafted with rich materials, including wool-blend upholstery and natural wood trim. The XC90's Ultimate trim, priced at $89,145, included features like massaging front seats and a high-end Bowers & Wilkins audio system. Volvo's attention to color and materials was evident, providing a more customizable experience for discerning buyers.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring was a plug-in hybrid that delivered an impressive 494 horsepower and 630 lb-ft of torque. Despite its additional 800 pounds of weight due to the electric motor and battery, the Aviator offered 21 miles of electric driving range and averaged 23 mpg in hybrid mode. The SUV featured multiple driving modes, including Pure EV, Preserve EV, and Excite, allowing drivers to tailor the powertrain's performance to their needs. During testing, the Aviator demonstrated a fuel economy equivalent to 163.4 mpg when relying heavily on electric power. However, the drivetrain's unpredictability and inconsistent brake pedal behavior were noted drawbacks. The Aviator's handling was commendable, thanks to its Dynamic Handling Package, but it lacked the fun-to-drive factor, focusing instead on providing a quiet and smooth ride.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8 combined a supercharged and turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an 18.8-kilowatt-hour battery and a 107-kilowatt electric motor, producing 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque. The XC90 offered 32 miles of electric-only driving and averaged 27 mpg in hybrid mode. Recharging was straightforward, with options for standard household outlets or faster 240-volt outlets. The XC90 featured multiple driving modes, including Pure, Power, and Hybrid, allowing for a versatile driving experience. During testing, the XC90 fell short of its electric range and fuel economy estimates, but it excelled in providing a lively driving experience with its powerful powertrain. However, the XC90's handling was less thrilling, with a firm ride and more cabin noise than expected for a luxury SUV.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator prioritized comfort with features like a four-zone automatic climate control system, heated and ventilated seats, and massaging 30-way Perfect Position front seats. The second-row captain's chairs were spacious and supportive, but the third-row seat was cramped and difficult to access for adults. With the third-row seats in use, the Aviator offered 18.3 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 41.8 cubic feet with the seats folded and a maximum of 77.7 cubic feet.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8 offered a well-equipped interior with power-adjustable and heated front seats, leather upholstery, and a four-zone climate control system. The panoramic glass roof added natural light, and higher trims included features like a heated steering wheel and ventilated front seats with massage. The XC90 seated seven, with a comfortable second-row bench and a more accommodating third row than expected. Cargo space was limited with the third row in use, but folding it down provided up to 65.5 cubic feet, and with the second row folded, it offered 85.7 cubic feet.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Black Label Grand Touring was equipped with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Alexa integration. However, it ran on the outdated Sync 3 software, which struggled with voice recognition and navigation accuracy. The Aviator also included a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D audio system, wireless charging, and a Phone As A Key digital key system. The digital instrumentation and head-up display were user-friendly, and parking was made easier with front and rear sensors and a surround-view camera system.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 featured a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Google Built-in technology, offering Google Maps, Google Play, and Google Assistant. Apple CarPlay and SiriusXM satellite radio were also standard. The XC90's infotainment system was intuitive and user-friendly, with a 12-inch digital instrumentation panel and an available head-up display. The Bowers & Wilkins audio system provided an exceptional listening experience, and the surround-view camera and parking sensors enhanced safety and convenience.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator was equipped with Co-Pilot360 driver aids, including adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection, and forward-collision warning. The Aviator received a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. However, the driving assistance buttons on the steering wheel were unnecessarily complicated, and the lane-keeping system struggled with curves and heavy traffic.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 was renowned for its safety features, earning a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. While the XC90's advanced driving assistance systems were not groundbreaking, they included Pilot Assist, which combined adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assist. However, Pilot Assist occasionally struggled with curves and lane markings, and a significant error during testing raised concerns about its reliability.