2025 Lincoln Aviator vs 2024 Kia Seltos

The 2024 Kia Seltos underwent a mid-cycle refresh, resulting in subtle yet effective updates. The exterior featured redesigned headlights and grille, with a light strip connecting the smaller taillight assemblies, giving the vehicle a refreshed appearance without significant cost increases. The test model showcased the new "Pluton Blue" paint, adding a sharp aesthetic. Inside, the Seltos introduced two new interior colors, "Gentle Brown" and "Midnight Green," though the test model retained the standard black interior. A prominent change was the large digital panel spanning two-thirds of the dash, integrating a fully digital instrument panel and a larger touchscreen infotainment system.

In contrast, the 2025 Lincoln Aviator, built on a rear-wheel-drive platform shared with the Ford Explorer, boasted classic design proportions. Its blunt nose, short front overhang, and tapered roofline created an appealing silhouette, though the 2025 styling appeared less elegant with the optional Jet Appearance Package. Inside, the Aviator offered a plush interior with a classic architectural sensibility, avoiding an over-reliance on screens. However, the remote keyless entry fob was criticized for its cheap plastic construction. The Aviator's Phone as a Key technology and touchpad entry system provided modern conveniences, while the test vehicle in Reserve trim featured optional all-wheel drive, Whisper Blue paint, and a center console between second-row captain’s chairs.

The 2024 Kia Seltos offered two engine options. The base model featured a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 146 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque, paired with Kia’s Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT). The base LX trim came standard with all-wheel drive, while the S and EX trims offered front-wheel drive with optional all-wheel drive. The X-Line and SX trims were equipped with a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 195 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, paired with a new eight-speed automatic transmission. This setup provided noticeable acceleration improvements, especially in 40-to-60 mph situations. The Seltos handled various road conditions well, with responsive steering and minimal body roll.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator featured a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, producing 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Drivers could choose from Excite, Conserve, Normal, Slippery, and Deep Conditions driving modes. The Aviator excelled in acceleration, though fuel economy was a concern, with an observed 17.7 mpg. The adaptive air suspension provided a comfortable ride, though the 22-inch wheels and thin tires struggled with rough surfaces. The Aviator offered clear sightlines and a quiet interior, though the driving character was more focused on comfort than athleticism.

The 2024 Kia Seltos provided up to 62.8 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 26.6 cubic feet with them in use. The SX trim offered a hands-free power liftgate. The Seltos featured an upright seating position with ample headroom and good rear legroom, accommodating taller occupants comfortably. The front seating area included decently sized in-door cupholders and cubbies, while the SX trim added a removable cargo cover.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator offered luxurious comfort with its Perfect Position front seats, featuring 30-way adjustability, heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The second-row captain’s chairs were roomy and supportive, though the third-row seats were less accommodating for adults. Storage space was excellent, with a smartphone charging pad, cupholders, and a sizable bin in the center console. The Aviator provided 19.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 42.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 78.6 cubic feet.

The 2024 Kia Seltos featured a consistent digital bezel across trims, with screen sizes varying. The base infotainment system included an 8-inch touchscreen, while higher trims upgraded to a 10.25-inch digital instrument panel and touchscreen. The system supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with physical controls for volume and climate. The SX trim offered an eight-speaker Bose premium stereo system and Digital Key 2 Touch for smartphone access.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator boasted a 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster and a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system powered by Lincoln Digital Experience. It included Google Built-in, Alexa Built-in, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the Google Assistant struggled with voice prompts. The Aviator featured a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D sound system and an impressive head-up display with comprehensive data presentation.

The 2024 Kia Seltos came with standard driver assistance features, including forward collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, and driver attention warning. The S trim added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The SX trim offered smart cruise control, traffic sign recognition, and highway driving assist.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator included the Lincoln Co-Pilot360 Drive 2.0 suite, featuring active blind-spot monitoring, intersection assist, and evasive steering assist. Adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist were standard, with BlueCruise providing hands-free driving assistance on approved highways. The Aviator earned five-star ratings from the NHTSA and Good ratings from the IIHS.