If you’re a parent, you’ll want a vehicle that can help keep you and your little ones safe. You’ll also want a vehicle that delivers comfort and convenience at every turn. Is elevated curb appeal also on that list? Sounds like you’re looking for a superb SUV like the 2023 Ford Explorer or the 2023 Lincoln Aviator.
When you need to get around West Point, King William, or Williamsburg with your family, these SUVs will have your back. Which one should you choose? Our West Point Ford team has put together this Explorer vs. Aviator comparison to help you decide!
TRIM LEVELS
PASSENGER VOLUME
MAXIMUM CARGO CAPACITY
As a parent, you don’t have to throw all the fun out the door! In fact, the party is just getting started. Choosing the Ford Explorer or the Lincoln Aviator means you’re driving a classic extended vessel with ultimate curb appeal. Depending on which SUV you choose, you’ll also gain the power of choice.
Whether you’re going to Saturday morning soccer games or running errands with the whole family, you’ll look good in either the Explorer or the Aviator. Both SUVs offer bold and traditional paint options.
If you want a classic color, both models have black, white, and gray color palettes to choose from. To spice things up, choose their fiery red equivalents! These models even have muted jewel tones available that are sleek and add a silky drop of color to your commutes. Check out their comparable colors below:
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In the Lincoln Aviator…
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Color-wise, these SUVs are nearly identical. However, the Ford takes things up a notch when it comes to trim levels. This Ford SUV offers eight trims levels, which shine in comparison to the Lincoln’s five trim levels.
With three more offered trims, you can easily find an Explorer that matches your needs down to the nitty-gritty details. You may have to be more selective in choosing an Aviator.
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As you navigate parenthood, there will be many twists and turns. Good thing the Ford Explorer and the Lincoln Aviator have reliable technologies and safety suites to make the bumpiest ride feel smooth.
The Explorer and the Aviator both have drive mode select systems on board. For starters, the Ford’s Terrain Management System™ features a dial selector that helps you toggle up to seven modes: Normal, Trail, Deep Snow/Sand, Slippery, Sport, Tow/Haul, and Eco Mode.
The Aviator’s Lincoln Drive Modes system also includes several modes including hybrid-exclusive options; however, this drive mode system is designed to match your mood and road conditions. With that being said, it may be better suited for on-road travel compared to the Ford’s more rugged and off-road-ready options.
With your precious cargo on board, you can enjoy confident driving thanks to the Ford’s and the Lincoln’s safety suites. For instance, the Explorer is equipped with Ford Co-Pilot360™, which includes these standard features:
- Auto High-Beam Headlamps
- BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) with Cross-Traffic Alert
- Pre-Collision Assist® with Automatic Emergency Braking
- Lane-Keeping System
- Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control
Other than a similar pre-collision assistance feature, you’ll need to upgrade to a higher Aviator trim level to gain the same level of protection.
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Side by side, the Ford Explorer and the Lincoln Aviator are nearly the same size. Despite this similarity, the Explorer dedicates most of its space to you, which you’ll find to be true in its larger interior dimensions.
Both SUVs can seat up to seven passengers, which makes them great for families or work carpools. However, you’ll find more available space in the Explorer.
- Ford Explorer Passenger Volume: 152.7 cubic feet
- Lincoln Aviator Passenger Volume: 144.7 cubic feet
More wiggle room means both tall and small passengers can comfortably fit inside and in any seating appointment too!
Your passengers may come with some gear. Whether it be a diaper bag and stroller or backpacks and school projects, the Explorer and the Aviator have over 18 cubic feet of space for it all.
However, once you start folding down the second and third rows, the Explorer begins to take the lead.
- Explorer Cargo Capacity (behind first/second row): 87.8/47.9 cubic feet
- Aviator Cargo Capacity (behind first/second row): 77.7/41.8 cubic feet
When you need to take home a new crib for your bundle of joy or a few tools for your home renovations, you can put your trust in the Explorer thanks to its copious amount of space.
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Either the 2023 Explorer or the 2023 Aviator would make a perfect addition to your family. However, with more configurations, additional convenience, and larger interior dimensions, we believe the Ford is the right way to go.
Do you agree? If so, schedule a test drive with West Point Ford near West Point, King William, and Williamsburg today. See you soon.
All of the tools you need to move forward with experiencing a new 2023 Explorer for yourself are conveniently available right here online.
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