2025 Lincoln Aviator vs 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator, built on a rear-wheel-drive platform shared with the Ford Explorer, showcased classic design proportions. Its blunt nose, short front overhang, and appealing dash-to-axle ratio contributed to its sports wagon-like appearance, despite being an SUV. The tapered roofline and greenhouse added to its allure, though they compromised third-row passenger space. However, the 2025 styling updates, particularly with the optional Jet Appearance Package, made it appear less elegant and more generic. Inside, the Aviator offered a plush interior with a classic architectural sensibility, avoiding the screen-heavy approach of other Lincoln models. The traditional design was complemented by advanced technology, although the remote keyless entry fob was criticized for its cheap feel. The Aviator was available in Premiere, Reserve, and Black Label trims, with our test vehicle in Reserve trim featuring optional AWD and a range of packages, bringing its MSRP to $83,550.

In contrast, the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered ten versions, with prices ranging from $63,600 to $134,500. Assembled in Alabama, the GLE 350 was the least expensive model, while the AMG GLE 63 S Coupe topped the range. Our focus was on the standard GLE body style, specifically the GLE 450 with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine and mild-hybrid technology. The GLE 450 featured AWD and came with the Exclusive and Manufaktur Edition Packages, priced at $79,100. The Manufaktur Edition added exclusive paint, 21-inch wheels, and a Night Package, among other features. Despite its egg-on-wheels styling, the GLE Coupe's swoopy roofline improved its design. Inside, the GLE 450 boasted a luxurious cabin with quality materials, ambient lighting, and sophisticated digital displays. The steering wheel featured touch-sensing controls, though the touch slider for stereo volume was challenging to use.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator was powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, delivering 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque through a 10-speed automatic transmission. It offered Excite, Conserve, Normal, Slippery, and Deep Conditions driving modes. Our test vehicle featured adaptive air suspension, which firmed up in Excite mode, though the Aviator was not particularly thrilling to drive. The V6 provided ample power for acceleration and passing, but fuel economy was disappointing at 17.7 mpg compared to the EPA's 20 mpg estimate. The Aviator offered clear sightlines and a 360-degree camera view for parking. However, the ride quality suffered on rough roads due to the 22-inch wheels and thin tires, generating noticeable road noise. The adaptive Air Glide suspension excelled at maintaining composure, but the Aviator's driving character lacked athleticism.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, producing 375 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. It offered Eco, Comfort, Sport, Off-Road, and Individual driving modes. The GLE 450 was capable of towing 7,700 pounds and included off-road features like Downhill Speed Regulation and a "transparent hood" camera view. However, the standard suspension allowed excessive body motion, making it less enjoyable to drive in various conditions. The steering felt numb in Comfort mode and remained uninspiring in Dynamic mode. The sport braking system performed well in spirited driving but felt grabby in typical situations. The automatic engine stop/start system caused delays in acceleration, and the transmission's downshifts were sluggish. Despite these issues, the GLE 450 offered a quiet cabin and decent fuel economy, matching the EPA's 21 mpg estimate.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator's Perfect Position front seats offered 30-way adjustability, heating, ventilation, and massage, providing exceptional comfort. The second-row captain's chairs were roomy and supportive, with heating and ventilation, but lacked massage functions. The third-row seat was less accommodating for adults, with low cushions and limited legroom. Storage space was excellent, with a smartphone charging pad, cupholders, and a sizable bin in the center console. The Aviator offered 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 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE's front seats were firm yet comfortable, featuring heating and "energizing seat kinetics." The Exclusive Package added ventilated front seats and Nappa leather. The back seat was roomy but positioned low relative to the window sills. A third-row seat was an expensive option, adding two extra chairs with USB-C ports. The GLE offered 33.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the back seat, expanding to 74.9 cubic feet with the back seat folded. The cargo area included a netted compartment, hooks, lighting, and a cargo cover.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator featured 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, while Apple CarPlay and Siri worked well. The Aviator's 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D sound system was impressive, and the head-up display provided valuable information.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE used the MBUX infotainment system with a 12.3-inch digital driver display and a 12.3-inch touchscreen. The system offered lush graphics, biometric authentication, and a reliable digital voice assistant. The Exclusive Package added a Burmester surround-sound audio system, Dolby Atmos technology, and augmented-reality navigation. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with SiriusXM satellite radio and Mercedes Digital Extras.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator came with Lincoln Co-Pilot360 Drive 2.0, offering advanced driver assistance systems like active blind-spot monitoring, intersection assist, and evasive steering assist. BlueCruise, a hands-free driving assistance system, was standard, providing a four-year subscription. The Aviator earned five-star ratings from the NHTSA and Good ratings from the IIHS.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE's standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitors. The Driver Assistance Package added adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and evasive steering assist. The GLE's Active Emergency Stop Assist and touch-sensing steering wheel were notable features. The GLE was named a "Top Safety Pick+" by the IIHS, but the NHTSA had not rated it.