2022 Nissan Armada vs 2023 Lincoln Aviator

The 2022 Nissan Armada was a large and imposing SUV, with dimensions that emphasized its substantial presence on the road. It measured 208.9 inches in length, 75.8 inches in height, and 79.9 inches in width, making it a formidable vehicle. The Armada's design featured sculptural details, standard LED lighting, and a tasteful amount of chrome, giving it a luxurious appearance. The exterior was available in seven colors, with deep, rich paint and lustrous chrome accents. Wheel options ranged from 18-inch on the S and SV models to 22-inch diamond-cut aluminum-alloy wheels on the Platinum trim, which complemented the vehicle's size and added a touch of elegance.

In contrast, the 2023 Lincoln Aviator was a midsize SUV that exuded a sense of modern luxury. It featured a sleek design with Lincoln's signature face, making it an appealing choice in the automaker's lineup. The Aviator's exterior was enhanced by the Lincoln Embrace lighting sequence, which acknowledged the presence of the keyfob and illuminated the vehicle to invite passengers in. The interior of the Aviator Black Label Grand Touring was undeniably fancy, with a mix of patterned metal trim, gloss black surfaces, chrome accents, and rich caramel-hued leather seats. However, some elements, like the chrome detailing on the switchgear, came across as less luxurious than expected. The Aviator's design aimed to provide a comfortable and stylish experience, though it occasionally felt like it was trying too hard to impress.

The 2022 Nissan Armada was powered by a robust 5.6-liter V8 engine, delivering 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. This naturally aspirated engine was paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission, offering both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) options. The Armada's fuel efficiency was modest, with RWD models achieving an EPA rating of 14 mpg city/19 mpg highway/16 mpg combined, while 4WD versions slightly reduced these figures. Despite its weight, ranging from 5,650 to 6,034 pounds, the Armada could tow up to 8,500 pounds and carry up to eight passengers. Its four-wheel independent suspension provided a controlled and comfortable ride, even on rough roads.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring, a plug-in hybrid, combined a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine with an electric motor, producing an impressive 494 horsepower and 630 pound-feet of torque. The Aviator offered a 21-mile electric driving range and averaged 23 mpg in hybrid mode. Various driving modes allowed the powertrain to switch between electricity and gasoline for optimal efficiency. The Aviator's performance was characterized by its quick acceleration, though the drivetrain occasionally exhibited unpredictability. The brake pedal also required careful attention for smooth stops. The Aviator's Dynamic Handling Package, with adaptive-damping Active Glide suspension, provided a smooth and quiet ride, though it lacked the excitement of a sportier SUV.

The 2022 Nissan Armada was designed to accommodate seven to eight passengers comfortably. The first row featured power-adjustable bucket seats, while the second row offered a choice between a 60/40-split bench seat or captain's chairs. The third-row bench seat could be equipped with power folding and reclining functions. The Armada's interior was spacious, with up to 95.4 cubic feet of cargo space when the second and third rows were folded down. The vehicle also included numerous storage compartments and cupholders, making it a practical choice for families.

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 roomy and supportive, but the third-row seat was less accommodating for adults. The Aviator offered 18.3 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats in use, expanding to 77.7 cubic feet with the third row folded down. While the Aviator excelled in comfort and luxury, its third-row seating was best suited for children or short trips.

The 2022 Nissan Armada came equipped with NissanConnect technology, featuring a 12.3-inch color touchscreen with customizable split-screen options. Standard tech features included a Wi-Fi hotspot, wireless device charging, navigation, and a rear-view monitor. The Armada's audio system varied by trim, with Bose-branded audio available on higher trims. Connectivity options included USB ports, Bluetooth, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. The Platinum trim offered a Family Entertainment System with dual headrest monitors.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Black Label Grand Touring was loaded with technology, including a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Alexa integration. However, it ran on Lincoln's older Sync 3 software, which had limitations in voice recognition. The Aviator featured a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D audio system, wireless charging, and a Phone As A Key digital key system. The vehicle also included digital instrumentation, a head-up display, and advanced parking assistance features.

The 2022 Nissan Armada prioritized safety with a comprehensive list of standard features, including Nissan Safety Shield 360, which offered high beam assist, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and more. The Armada also included adaptive cruise control, intelligent forward collision warning, and an available intelligent rear-view mirror. While the Armada had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, it offered a robust set of safety features.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator was equipped with Lincoln's Co-Pilot360 collections of driver aids, including adaptive cruise control, road-sign recognition, pedestrian detection, and more. The Aviator's safety tech performed well, though it was best suited for straight highways with light traffic. The Aviator had received a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA for the standard model, though the Grand Touring version had not been rated.