Lincoln Aviator Vs. Ford Explorer Comparison
If you're an SUV shopper searching for a versatile and well-equipped midsize sport utility vehicle with three-row seating, you'll want to see our Lincoln Aviator vs. Ford Explorer comparison. These two SUVs for sale come standard with seating across three rows, robust performance, and modern amenities that drivers and families will love.
So, how do you choose between the 2025 Lincoln Aviator and 2025 Ford Explorer? First, see how these midsize three-row SUVs stack up in our head-to-head review. After learning how these SUVs compare, we're confident you'll want to plan your trip to Fiesta Lincoln for a test drive.
Comparing Two Midsize Three-Row SUVs
Where do you begin comparing two versatile SUVs that offer so many differences and similarities? Let's look at where these midsize models differ to help you determine which sport-ute is right for you and your family.
We'll be comparing the standard or base models of these two new SUVs for sale to make it a fair fight. Starting with specs like their powertrain output, tow capacity, and MPG, to establish which one of these SUVs comes out on top.
Lincoln Aviator Vs. Ford Explorer Specs
The 2025 Lincoln Aviator comes standard with a potent twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 engine that empowers your drives with 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque.1 This robust twin-turbo engine is paired with rear-wheel drive as standard, but all-wheel drive is available for drivers who appreciate all-weather traction.
The new Ford Explorer falls far short of the Lincoln Aviator regarding standard engine performance. Under the hood is a 2.3-liter turbocharged I-4 engine that produces a meager 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. Like the Lincoln SUV, the Explorer comes standard with RWD, with 4WD as an available upgrade.
Both motors are paired with a standard 10-speed automatic transmission, but keep in mind that the Aviator comes standard with paddle shifters for you to switch things up. You'd have to upgrade to a higher trim to enjoy this convenience in the Ford SUV.
Lincoln Aviator Vs. Ford Explorer Towing Capacity
Given the Lincoln Aviator SUV's power advantage over the Ford Explorer, you might expect that the Lincoln can tow more in standard form. In this case, the two SUVs actually stand on equal footing.
Drivers of the new Lincoln Aviator Premier trim featuring RWD and the twin-turbo V-6 can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. The same is true for the 2025 Ford Explorer Active. While this may seem like an advantage for the Ford model, we have to also point out that the Lincoln SUV boasts 19.2 cubic feet of storage space behind the third row. On the other hand, the Ford model only offers 16.3 cubic feet. If you're setting out on a trip and want to bring along a trailer and everyone's belongings without sacrificing any seating space, you choose the Aviator every time.
Lincoln Aviator Vs. Ford Explorer MPG
Motorists might expect a drastic difference in the MPG figures of the Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator, considering the Lincoln SUV features a far more powerful standard engine. However, the premium and luxurious Lincoln Aviator returns competitive fuel economy ratings that make it seem like the better option when you want both power and efficiency in your new SUV.
The Lincoln Aviator and its powerful twin-turbo V-6 achieve an EPA-estimated 18/25 MPG (City/Highway),1 which is mighty impressive when compared to the Ford Explorer's standard MPG rating. In this case, the results are the same once again, with the Ford model achieving an EPA-estimated 18/25 MPG (City/Highway).2 What this ultimately means is that you can enjoy substantially more horsepower and torque for equivalent efficiency by choosing the 2025 Lincoln Aviator.
The Aviator is even more appealing when you consider that it has a 20.2-gallon fuel tank, compared to the 17.9-gallon fuel capacity of the Explorer. Choose the former and you can go even further between refueling stops on road trips or commuting.
Now that you know more about the Lincoln Aviator vs. Ford Explorer specs, which model would you choose? There's more to uncover about these new SUVs, so let's continue.
Ford Explorer Vs. Lincoln Aviator Amenities
Luxury comes standard on the new Lincoln Aviator. The same can't be said about the Ford Explorer.
Experience a premium driving experience with the new Lincoln Aviator and its array of premium standard features, including:
- Lincoln BlueCruise hands-free technology
- 10-way driver and eight-way passenger power adjustable front seats with power lumbar support and driver-side memory
- Lincoln soft touch seats
- Heated second-row outboard seats
- Tri-Zone automatic climate control
- 13.2-inch touchscreen display
- 12.4-inch LCD instrument cluster display
- Advanced Heads-Up Display
- Rain-sensing windshield wipers
- 10-Speaker Lincoln premium audio system
The Ford Explorer SUV simply can't measure up in terms of standard features. If you shop the new Ford Explorer lineup, you'll start off with amenities like cloth seats, a four-way power-adjustable front passenger seat, and a six-speaker system. Still, it cannot compare to the level of luxury and refinement you'll find in the Lincoln Aviator.
Test-Drive the 2025 Lincoln Aviator at Fiesta Lincoln
We have covered how the new Lincoln Aviator and Ford Explorer compare, including many areas where the Lincoln outperforms the Explorer, including specs and features. If you'd like to experience Lincoln luxury firsthand and see for yourself why many motorists choose the Aviator over the Explorer, visit our Fiesta Lincoln showroom – your local Lincoln dealer.
You can shop our new Lincoln Aviator inventory to find a version of this versatile luxury SUV that's perfect for your family. With multiple Aviator trims to choose from, you'll want to consider all your options before upgrading, so contact us with any questions!
Additional Lincoln Model Resources
1EPA-estimated city/hwy mpg for the model indicated. See fueleconomy.gov for fuel economy of other engine/transmission combinations. Actual mileage will vary. On plug-in hybrid models and electric models, fuel economy is stated in MPGe. MPGe is the EPA equivalent measure of gasoline fuel efficiency for electric mode operation.
2EPA-estimated city/hwy mpg for the model indicated. See fueleconomy.gov for fuel economy of other engine/transmission combinations. Actual mileage will vary. On plug-in hybrid models and electric models, fuel economy is stated in MPGe. MPGe is the EPA equivalent measure of gasoline fuel efficiency for electric mode operation.