2024 Honda Passport vs 2023 Lincoln Aviator

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator presented a sophisticated and luxurious appearance, with its modern Lincoln face being a standout feature in the automaker’s lineup. The Black Label Grand Touring model, despite its high price tag, was somewhat let down by its plain wheel design, which did not complement the vehicle's otherwise upscale aesthetic. The Aviator's interior was a blend of high-end materials and intricate design elements, such as patterned metal trim and rich caramel-hued leather seats, which might have been overwhelming for those preferring a minimalist style. The cabin was equipped with ambient lighting and soft-close doors, enhancing the luxury experience, although some chrome detailing appeared less premium than expected.

In contrast, the 2024 Honda Passport maintained a more traditional design, with minor updates since its last significant refresh in 2022. The Passport's rugged TrailSport trim featured all-terrain tires and roof rails, giving it a robust appearance, though some elements like the faux skid plates were more aesthetic than functional. Inside, the Passport offered a straightforward and utilitarian design, with black leather upholstery and orange stitching adding a touch of flair. The interior was practical, with ample storage and simple controls, though it lacked the opulence found in the Aviator.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring was a plug-in hybrid that delivered an impressive 494 horsepower and 630 pound-feet of torque, thanks to its twin-turbo V6 engine paired with an electric motor. It offered a 21-mile electric driving range and averaged 23 mpg in hybrid mode. The Aviator's driving experience was characterized by its smooth and quiet ride, although the drivetrain's responsiveness was occasionally unpredictable. The vehicle's handling was commendable, aided by its adaptive suspension, but it lacked the engaging driving dynamics of sportier SUVs.

The 2024 Honda Passport, on the other hand, was powered by a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. Managed by a nine-speed automatic transmission, the Passport provided adequate acceleration and smooth gear shifts. Its fuel economy was rated at 19 mpg city, 24 highway, and 21 combined. The TrailSport trim featured a wider track and off-road-tuned suspension, enhancing its capability on rough terrain. The Passport's steering was precise and well-balanced, contributing to a confident driving experience, although road noise was more pronounced at higher speeds.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator prioritized comfort with features like a four-zone climate control system, heated and ventilated seats, and massaging front seats. However, its third-row seating was cramped and best suited for children, with limited legroom and support. Cargo space was also 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 2024 Honda Passport excelled in cargo capacity, offering 41.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 77.7 cubic feet with the seats folded. Its two-row configuration provided ample space for five adults, with plenty of legroom and storage options. The front cabin featured a redesigned center console for increased storage, though it slightly reduced the sense of openness. Overall, the Passport's interior was practical and spacious, catering to those who prioritize utility over luxury.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator was equipped with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a WiFi hotspot. However, it ran on the outdated Sync 3 software, which struggled with voice recognition and navigation accuracy. The Aviator also boasted a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D audio system and a digital key system, enhancing its tech appeal.

The 2024 Honda Passport came with an 8-inch touchscreen, which felt small for its spacious cabin. It included standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the navigation system's persistent turn-by-turn directions were a minor annoyance. The TrailSport trim's seven-speaker audio system was adequate, though not as impressive as some competitors' offerings. Overall, the Passport's tech was functional but lacked the sophistication of the Aviator's setup.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator featured a comprehensive suite of driver aids, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. However, its safety ratings were not available for the Grand Touring model, though the standard Aviator received high marks from both the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2024 Honda Passport came standard with Honda Sensing, which included forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Despite its extensive safety features, the Passport received mixed crash test ratings, with the IIHS rating it as "Acceptable" and "Marginal" in certain tests, while the NHTSA awarded it five stars overall.