​If you're looking for a luxury SUV, you should consider the 2025 Lincoln Aviator and the 2025 Cadillac XT6. Although these rivals both provide exceptional luxury, their inherent features differ significantly. The Aviator emphasizes power and luxurious details, while the XT6 takes a more budget-friendly approach to the luxury SUV market, offering improved fuel efficiency.
Overview of Both Vehicles
The 2025 Aviator ranks fifth among luxury midsize SUVs, while the XT6 sits at number six. These numbers reveal actual differences in driving quality and interior craftsmanship. The Lincoln scores 8.9/10 while Cadillac manages 7.9/10. Both offer seven seats, with the XT6 providing more passenger volume at 149.9 cubic feet vs. the Aviator's 144.7 cubic feet. Yet Lincoln compensates with superior materials, advanced technology, and a more engaging driving experience.
Engine Options
The 2025 Lincoln Aviator is equipped with a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V-6 engine that produces 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. The XT6 offers two choices: a basic 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder that generates 235 to 237 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, or an optional 3.6-liter V-6 that delivers 310 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque.
The Lincoln uses a 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission with paddle shifters for smooth power delivery. Cadillac pairs both its engines with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The Aviator offers rear-wheel drive with optional all-wheel drive (AWD), while the XT6 features front-wheel drive with AWD as an option.
Fuel Economy
The Cadillac XT6's 2.0-liter turbo engine gets an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, while the V-6 provides 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. The Lincoln Aviator gets 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway across the lineup, matching the Cadillac's V-6 output.
Handling and Ride Quality
The Aviator's rear-wheel-drive system enhances stability and driving pleasure, while the AWD system is perfect for challenging weather conditions. This setup outperforms the XT6's front-wheel-drive configuration, which places the engine weight right above the steering wheels. With its huge power advantage, the Lincoln accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 5.4 to 6 seconds, depending on the drivetrain.
Interior and Features
Although both SUVs offer leather upholstery, heating and cooling seat options, and multizone climate control systems, they also present distinct differences.
Cabin Quality
Although the Aviator provides a spacious 43 inches of front legroom compared to the Cadillac's 41.2 inches, the XT6 offers slightly more overall cabin space. The Lincoln Aviator features premium materials and exceptional comfort with advanced technology such as a 30-way power-adjustable Perfect Position seat with massaging functionality. Cadillac counters with real wood or carbon fiber trim and soft mood lighting throughout the interior.
Technology
The Aviator offers a large 13.2-inch touch screen with Lincoln's Digital Experience software, which provides user-friendly access to features such as maps, music, and settings. The XT6 provides wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless charging, and an 8-inch screen. Although both vehicles offer effective phone connectivity, the Lincoln's display feels more appropriate for a luxury price point. The Aviator offers a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D sound system for an immersive audio experience. Cadillac's 14-speaker Bose setup is adequate but is no match for the Lincoln's system.
Cargo and Storage
The Cadillac edges ahead in cargo space, with the XT6 providing 43.1 cubic feet behind the second row and 18.3 cubic feet behind the third row compared to the Aviator's 41.8 cubic feet and 12.6 cubic feet, respectively. This capacity expands to 78.7 cubic feet in the Cadillac and 77.7 cubic feet in the Lincoln with the seats folded. The Lincoln comfortably accommodates seven people and their belongings, while the Cadillac feels slightly cramped.
Safety Features
Although both SUVs received perfect 10/10 safety ratings in the large luxury SUV category, the Aviator earned an overall safety score of 9.7/10 compared to the XT6's 8.1/10. The 2025 Aviator comes with Lincoln Co-Pilot360 2.0 and Intersection Assist 2.0. All Aviator models feature standard forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot alerts, and lane-keep assist. The Cadillac XT6 offers several standard advanced safety features, including lane-keep assist with lane departure warning, blind-zone alert, forward collision alert, front and rear parking assist, and rear cross-traffic alert.
Pricing and Value
The 2025 Lincoln Aviator is available in the Premiere, Reserve, and Black Label trims with starting MSRPs of $59,295, $66,520, and $87,395, respectively. The Cadillac XT6 offers the Luxury, Premium Luxury, and Sport models, with respective starting prices of $49,195, $55,395, and $60,695. Although the XT6 is more affordable, the Aviator has the power advantage with a more powerful engine.
Warranty and Ownership Perks
Both Lincoln and Cadillac provide a four-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and six-year/70,000-mile powertrain coverage. Lincoln offers additional services, including valet pickup and delivery, the Lincoln Access Rewards program, 24/7 roadside assistance, and the Lincoln Way app that allows you to monitor and manage your vehicle via your smartphone.
Discover the Aviator at Jim Burke Lincoln
If you're in Bakersfield, California, we invite you to visit Jim Burke Lincoln to experience the 2025 Aviator firsthand. Our knowledgeable team will walk you through its exceptional features, help you explore your financing options, and answer all your questions. Contact us today to schedule a test-drive to help you decide whether this luxury SUV fits your lifestyle.