2023 Mazda CX-5 vs 2023 Lincoln Aviator

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator presented a sophisticated and luxurious appearance, with a focus on comfort and style. It offered a choice between a standard twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine and a plug-in hybrid version, both paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Aviator's design was highlighted by its modern Lincoln face, although the wheel designs on the Black Label Grand Touring model were considered too plain for its price point. The interior was lavish, featuring a mix of high-end materials and a complex design that leaned towards Art Deco. However, some elements, like the chrome detailing and key fob, felt less premium than expected.

In contrast, the 2023 Mazda CX-5, despite its age, maintained a stylish and high-quality feel, resembling a small luxury SUV. It was available with a standard 187-horsepower four-cylinder engine or a more powerful 256-hp turbocharged variant. The CX-5's design updates improved its structural rigidity and suspension, enhancing its driving dynamics. The interior featured premium materials, especially in the Signature trim, but was let down by limited rear-seat and cargo space. The infotainment system was a source of frustration due to its lack of a touchscreen and voice recognition capabilities.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring, a plug-in hybrid, delivered an impressive 494 horsepower and 630 pound-feet of torque. It offered 21 miles of electric driving range and averaged 23 mpg in hybrid mode. The Aviator's driving modes allowed for a mix of electric and gasoline power, optimizing efficiency. Despite its power, the drivetrain was sometimes unpredictable, and the brake pedal behavior was inconsistent. The Aviator's handling was commendable, thanks to its adaptive suspension, but it wasn't particularly fun to drive, focusing more on comfort and isolation.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options: a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 187 hp and a turbocharged version with up to 256 hp. The turbocharged engine provided a satisfying driving experience, especially with its generous torque. The CX-5's updates improved its structural rigidity and suspension, resulting in a more rewarding drive. However, the turbocharged engine's fuel economy fell short of expectations during testing. The CX-5 excelled on twisting roads, offering a firm and connected ride, but its infotainment system detracted from the overall experience.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator prioritized comfort with features like a four-zone automatic climate control system and massaging, 30-way adjustable front seats. The second-row captain's chairs were spacious, but the third-row seat was cramped and best suited for children. Cargo space was limited with the third row in use, offering just 18.3 cubic feet, but expanded to 77.7 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 improved its front seats for better comfort and support, with power adjustments and heated options available in higher trims. The Signature trim featured luxurious Nappa leather upholstery. However, the CX-5's interior was let down by limited storage space, rear-seat room, and cargo capacity. It offered 30.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 59.3 cubic feet with the seats folded, which was less than many rivals.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator was equipped with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a navigation system. However, it ran on the outdated Sync 3 software, which struggled with voice recognition. The Aviator also included a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D audio system and a Phone As A Key digital key system. The head-up display was effective even with polarized sunglasses, and parking was made easier with front and rear sensors and a surround-view camera system.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5's Mazda Connect infotainment system featured a 10.25-inch display but was criticized for its lack of a touchscreen and voice recognition. The physical controls were awkward to use, requiring memorization and focus. Despite these issues, the system offered Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Bose premium audio system in higher trims. The CX-5 also included a front-facing camera and a surround-view camera system for easier parking.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator came with a range of driver assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. However, the steering wheel controls were unnecessarily complicated. The Aviator received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 offered a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features under the i-Activsense banner, with additional features available in higher trims. The system operated smoothly and accurately, with a head-up display showing alerts. The CX-5 also included an E911 system for automatic collision notification. It received five-star ratings from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS.