2025 Lincoln Aviator vs 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator, built on a rear-wheel-drive platform shared with the Ford Explorer, showcased classic design proportions with a blunt nose, short front overhang, and a sleek dash-to-axle ratio. Its tapered roofline and greenhouse contributed to an alluring silhouette, though at the expense of third-row passenger space. The Aviator's design leaned more towards a sports wagon aesthetic, but the 2025 styling updates, particularly with the optional Jet Appearance Package, were perceived as less elegant and more generic. Inside, the Aviator offered a plush interior with a classic architectural sensibility, avoiding the overwhelming presence of screens found in other models. However, the remote keyless entry fob was criticized for its cheap plastic construction, contrasting with the otherwise luxurious feel of the vehicle.

In contrast, the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a range of models, including the GLS 450, GLS 580, AMG GLS 63, and Maybach GLS 600, with prices spanning from $91,600 to $181,350. The GLS 450 test vehicle featured the new Manufaktur Edition Package, adding sporty AMG wheels and exclusive styling details. The interior, while similar to the smaller GLE-Class, boasted high-quality materials and detailing, though it exhibited body creaks on chilly mornings. The GLS provided a tailored feel, with a standard ambient lighting system and a panoramic sunroof enhancing the luxurious atmosphere. Despite some idiosyncratic control layouts, the dual 12.3-inch displays were well-integrated, offering a more traditional luxury experience.

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 various driving modes, including Excite, Conserve, Normal, Slippery, and Deep Conditions, with adaptive air suspension enhancing the ride quality. Despite its power, the Aviator was not particularly exciting to drive, focusing instead on providing a composed and calming cruising experience. The EPA-rated fuel economy was 20 mpg combined, but real-world testing yielded 17.7 mpg. The Aviator's adaptive Air Glide suspension effectively managed body motions and roll, ensuring a secure and comfortable ride.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine with mild-hybrid assist, producing 375 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. Coupled with a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Matic AWD, it accelerated from 0-60 mph in 5.8 seconds. The GLS offered multiple driving modes, including Comfort, Eco, Sport, Off-Road, and Individual, with a standard Airmatic adaptive suspension enhancing driving dynamics. The GLS achieved an EPA-rated 21 mpg combined, though testing showed 19.4 mpg. The GLS provided a tailored driving experience, with a quiet cabin, composed ride, and solid dynamics, making it easier to manage in urban settings compared to larger competitors.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator offered exceptional 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 well-organized center console and deep door pockets. The Aviator provided 19.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 42.7 cubic feet with the seats folded, and a maximum of 78.6 cubic feet.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS accommodated up to seven passengers, with a six-passenger configuration available. The GLS offered a range of comfort upgrades, including massaging seats and a rapid heating system. The second-row captain’s chairs provided generous legroom, though the seating position was low. The third-row seats offered good thigh support but limited legroom. Storage was limited, with a small center armrest bin and shallow door pockets. The GLS provided 17.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 84.7 cubic feet with the seats folded.

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 supported Google Built-in, Alexa Built-in, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the Google Assistant struggled with voice prompts, though Apple CarPlay and Siri worked well. The Aviator included a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D sound system and an impressive head-up display.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS boasted dual 12.3-inch displays with the MBUX infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a navigation system with augmented reality. The standard Burmester surround-sound system with Dolby Atmos was satisfying, with additional options like gesture control and rear infotainment screens. MBUX was user-friendly, with a digital assistant capable of executing various commands, though it occasionally struggled with specific requests.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator came equipped with Lincoln Co-Pilot360 Drive 2.0, featuring advanced driver assistance systems like active blind-spot monitoring, intersection assist, and reverse braking assist. BlueCruise, a hands-free driving assistance system, was standard, offering proactive control handover and lane change notifications. The Aviator earned five-star ratings from the NHTSA and Good ratings from the IIHS.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS included nearly 40 safety and driver-assistance systems, such as Pre-Safe, Crosswind Assist, and Active Emergency Stop Assist. It featured a hands-on driver-assistance system with a touch-sensing steering wheel, though it struggled with curves on the Pacific Coast Highway. The GLS required active driver participation, with easy system override. It braked harder than necessary in certain situations, but overall, it provided a smooth and refined driving experience.