2022 Lexus NX vs 2023 Lincoln Aviator

The 2022 Lexus NX, redesigned and available in four model series, offered a range of trim levels from base to Luxury, with prices starting at $37,950. The NX 350, particularly in F Sport and Luxury trims, was noted for its distinctive Lexus design, featuring a prominent spindle grille and refined styling details. The SUV was longer, wider, and taller than its predecessor, providing more passenger and cargo space. The interior was minimalist, with a focus on decluttering, though some controls integrated into the 14-inch touchscreen were not immediately intuitive. The NX 350 F Sport stood out with unique exterior and interior features, including sport-bolstered seats and a new F Sport steering wheel.

In contrast, the 2023 Lincoln Aviator was a three-row, midsize SUV with a striking modern Lincoln face. The Black Label Grand Touring model, priced at $91,225, was fully loaded and featured a luxurious interior with patterned metal trim, chrome accents, and rich caramel-hued leather seats. The Aviator's design aimed for an Art Deco aesthetic, though some details, like the chrome switchgear, felt less premium. The SUV's exterior lighting sequence and soft-close doors added to its upscale feel, but the third-row seating was cramped, making it less suitable for adults. Cargo space was limited with the third row in use, but folding it down increased capacity significantly.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered two electrified versions, with the NX 350h hybrid producing 239 horsepower and achieving 39 mpg combined, while the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid delivered 302 horsepower and 36 miles of electric range. The NX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The F Sport trim added adaptive suspension and performance dampers, enhancing its sporty character. The NX 350's acceleration to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds was credible, though the engine's sound was less refined than German rivals. Handling was impressive, with the F Sport better isolating road impacts.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring, a plug-in hybrid, combined a twin-turbo V6 with an electric motor, producing 494 horsepower and 630 lb-ft of torque. It offered 21 miles of electric range and 23 mpg in hybrid mode. The Aviator's driving modes allowed for efficient powertrain management, and the SUV's Dynamic Handling Package provided a smooth ride despite its added weight. The Aviator was quick under hard acceleration, but the drivetrain's responsiveness was inconsistent. The brake pedal also required careful modulation for smooth stops. While the Aviator handled well on winding roads, it lacked the engaging driving experience of sportier SUVs.

The 2022 Lexus NX provided a comfortable interior with heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. The F Sport trim offered better seat bolstering, while rear passengers enjoyed ample space and amenities like air conditioning vents and USB ports. The NX's cargo space increased by 14%, offering 22.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 46.9 cubic feet with them folded.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator prioritized comfort with features like a four-zone climate control system and massaging, 30-way adjustable front seats. The second-row captain's chairs were spacious, but the third-row seating was cramped and difficult to access. Cargo space was limited to 18.3 cubic feet with the third row in use, expanding to 41.8 cubic feet with it folded, and a maximum of 77.7 cubic feet with all rear seats down.

The 2022 Lexus NX featured the new Lexus Interface infotainment system with a standard 9.8-inch touchscreen, upgradeable to 14 inches. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, voice recognition, and cloud-based services. The system eliminated the old touchpad interface, but the touchscreen collected fingerprints and lacked a tuning knob. The NX also offered a digital mirror, head-up display, and various connected services.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator came with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system running Sync 3 software, which struggled with voice recognition. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D audio system. The Aviator's digital key system allowed smartphone access, and the head-up display remained visible with polarized sunglasses. Parking sensors and a surround-view camera system aided maneuverability, though the Active Parking Assist 2.0 system was not tested.

The 2022 Lexus NX included the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring advanced driver assistance systems like Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist and Oncoming Vehicle Detection. It also offered blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safe Exit Assist. Premium trim added rear pedestrian detection and adaptive front lighting.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator was equipped with Co-Pilot360 driver aids, including adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection, and evasive steering assist. The system performed well on highways but struggled in dense traffic. The Aviator received a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.