2021 Ford Explorer ST vs Lincoln Aviator | Head to Head

[@salsavani]

This guy pleasantly offers a detailed and thorough review of these 2 vehicles. His knowledge of the various features and it's versatility are very helpful. -Good work !!

[@CarsWithSteve]

Wow, thank you so much for the kind words! Glad you enjoyed the video!

[@unclerudy9797]

I've had my 2022 Explorer King Ranch for 3 months now. Came out of a 2019 Expedition Limited. Love this vehicle. Fast , powerful and incredibly comfortable and quiet. This is my 19th Ford/Lincoln on lease and that includes Navigators Aviators, Explorer Limiteds Town Cars and Expedition Limiteds and Platinums. This 2022 Explorer King Ranch is one of the best of the bunch. Thanks for a very informative vlog.

[@CarsWithSteve]

That's great Randy, always good to hear when people are enjoying their rides! And you're welcome.. Wild that you've owned so many but nice to know that you're enjoying it the most!

[@Mattribute]

Thanks for this, I found this more helpful than other videos on the Explorers. Just ordered an ST without the premium tech package since I didn't like the tall thin screen which appears in every dealer ordered ST that also includes the Street Pack. When I get this vehicle, if the travel troubles are over, I'll do a family road trip into Canada to see my relatives and to visit Tim Horton's store #1. The perfect kind of use for a SUV like this.

[@CarsWithSteve]

You're welcome Matt! Without the premium tech package is rare to find up our way as well. I'd go for the ST street pack over the tech pack as well so good call there! If you're into tuning for better performance there are some great mods from Palm Beach Dyno - ECU flash and better Intercooler you should check out

[@BrawndoQC]

That's quite a downgrade, you lose the upgraded audio system and massaging seats. I really like the bigger screen. Function over form.

[@craigt5990]

I have a 2020 Aviator. It is, Black Label, Grand Touring, pristine white, captain chair with console. Every available option. Just me and the wife so have never had the 3rd row up. This is absolutely an amazing ride. Yeah, it’s a 6 figure ride, but IMHO worth it. The Revel sound system is top notch.

[@CarsWithSteve]

I wish we could get the Black Label in Canada! That is a great build you've got. All great highlights and you're bang on with that sound system.. it is incredible! How are you finding the air suspension system?

[@BrawndoQC]

We have the black label in Mexico, probably gonna be my wife next ride but she enjoys her XT5. I personally prefer the ST as a man the aviator is a bit too feminine to my taste but I must admit that damn it does look great.

[@mattv8721]

Getting pretty good with these compare videos. Keep on growing man

[@CarsWithSteve]

Thank you! Figuring out different styles as I go.. it's been fun

[@This1sAhKillah]

2023 Lincoln Aviator Reseve owner here & I miss tf out of my 2022 Explorer ST soooo much, so so much. I should have kept it. I felt like a bad fucking ass driving that machine. Absolutely zero comparison between the Aviator & Explorer. The way it handles, accelerates & feels doesn't hold a candle to the Lincoln. The ride on the Lincoln tho, the way it rides is absolutely amazing & it is pure Luxury. Way better speaker system & seats too. Grown women thangs 💁🏼‍♀️

[@CarsWithSteve]

Think you hit the nail on the head there with your breakdown. They're both great for their own reasons. Think you'd trade in the Aviator for an Explorer ST in the future?

[@This1sAhKillah]

@@CarsWithSteve I will 100% own another ST in the future.

[@CarsWithSteve]

I'd be curious to know what you think of the new 2025 model once full reviews start coming out in the next few months!

[@Alex-ss4bk]

I got the 20 ST in the same color. I switched out the springs and the rear sway bar from Steeda, the handling got a lot better after the switch and I am very much enjoying the ride.

[@CarsWithSteve]

Was hoping for someone that did some work on their ST to comment! Do you find that with the upgraded springs it hugs the road with sharper turns or is it more of an overall smoother ride? Have you done any other work to the ST so far?

[@Alex-ss4bk]

@@CarsWithSteve Sharper turns, I can take on some of the corners with confidence. I def don't think you should track it lol but for me getting on and off of the express way felt much more planted, that body roll has been eliminated. I recommend doing both at the same time but if I had to choose which one first, I would pick the rear sway bar first then the springs. Overall ride stayed the same.

[@CarsWithSteve]

@@Alex-ss4bk That's amazing! Pretty cool what some springs and a sway bar can do to the ride. Haha could you imagine taking it on the track though?

[@2RCPRODUCTIONS]

Nice job Man! I have the ST and love the muscle feel along with the luxury options. The aviator looks Awesome but for a very similar platform, the feel seems entirely different. Thumbs up👍👍

[@CarsWithSteve]

Appreciate that! It's pretty wild how different they feel/look while being on the same platform but it definitely comes down to personal taste. The ST is such a nice car - especially if you can find a performance dealer willing to give you a bit of an ECU tune ;) What build did you go with on your ST? edit: scratch that - just checked out your channel and saw your build! Looks mint 👌

[@2RCPRODUCTIONS]

Cars With Steve Im hoping ford will come out with a mild warranty approved 93 tune! I run 93 all the time anyway so a few more horse for the same dollar would be sweet😀👍. Keep up the good work!

[@CarsWithSteve]

@@2RCPRODUCTIONS That would be a great one for them to do! Thank you, appreciate it

[@agarcia4271gaming]

I'm pretty sure I'm too late for that gift card, but that's fine! I can't stop saying this is the best and most thorough channel for Ford vehicles!

[@CarsWithSteve]

Reach out to me on Instagram if you want to claim it! Instagram.com/realcarswithsteve Appreciate that Andy! I'm contemplating moving into other OEMs as well - think it would be an interesting jump to compare Ford/Lincoln to others in real world tests

[@sandigroepper9172]

We just got a 2022 Ford Explorer ST with middle bucket seats. Ours did not come with a middle console. Can that be ordered and installed? Thank you for your great videos!!!! So helpful in learning all the buttons and what they do!!

[@CarsWithSteve]

You're welcome, glad that the videos are helping you learn more about your ride! It gets a bit pricey when you want to switch out the 2nd row configuration aftermarket. If you remove just the middle bench the captain's chairs wouldn't have inner armrests and you'd have to try to source a console, most likely from a scrap yard. A Ford dealer would probably do it but you'd be looking at 5-10k to get it done

[@discogene]

thanks for the great video, it helps a lot to make a decision

[@CarsWithSteve]

You're welcome! Do you think you're more likely to go for the Aviator or Explorer?

[@discogene]

@@CarsWithSteve I'll choose the aviator ;)

[@CarsWithSteve]

@@discogene Good stuff, it's a great ride!

[@TheManuich1]

Great review. Keep them coming

[@CarsWithSteve]

Thank you! 🙏

[@zzanatos2001]

I like both, but I would have to go with the Explorer ST. The Lincoln is nice - but it's not $14,000 nicer than the Ford.

[@CarsWithSteve]

Thanks for the feedback Zach! Have you had a chance to get behind the wheel of either one?

[@chrismadson9479]

If you dont care about materials, you may be right. Lincoln is a luxury brand, Ford is not. Lincoln hands down.

[@CarsWithSteve]

@@chrismadson9479 Well put Chris!

[@CarazyDiamond]

Nice review!

[@CarsWithSteve]

Thank you!

[@jackkuang9752]

Thank you so much for providing the information for Canada version, too.

[@CarsWithSteve]

You're welcome Jack! I'm in Canada as well so I'm doing US folks a favor by adding that in ;)

[@jackkuang9752]

@@CarsWithSteve nice, Steve, i just subscribed, please keep it up for Canadians, thank you

[@CarsWithSteve]

@@jackkuang9752 Thanks Jack, appreciate the support!

[@fahadabunayyan424]

Tbh , for the difference , this thing doesn’t deserve the 20k+

[@CarsWithSteve]

Entry trim Aviator vs Explorer ST for the 2024 models is only about $5k difference... makes it a bit more appealing for people wanting a bit more luxury and not just the power

[@GlennPearsonDIY]

Wouldn't a Explorer Platinum compare more? I know the differences are subtle (headlights, massage chairs etc).

[@CarsWithSteve]

Not for the 2021 models... The ST was tuned the same way as the Aviator but the Explorer King Ranch and Platinum had less hp/torque.. That was changed for the 2022 model though and the power output is the same across the Explorer lineup

[@michaellindquist31]

Steve, I just watched this video. While you painstakingly detail each vehicle’s tech, you totally missed mentioning the 30 way seats in the Lincoln compared to the relatively basic seats in the ST. You’re not alone. Most reviewers neglect this part. Seating and seat position is very important. Taller folks need more supportive seats and talking more about them is important.

[@CarsWithSteve]

Touch on it a bit in this video but there’s a full walk around on the aviator where I go over how to seats work. Too bad it was painstaking 😜

[@vicneuman8180]

We have the 2021 explorer platinum edition , think it compares to the avatar , nice ride

[@CarsWithSteve]

Comfort and style it really does! The engine doesn't have quite the same output as the ST but massage seats that are heated/ventilated, comfortable ride, great space.. how do you complain?

[@BrawndoQC]

@@CarsWithSteve I've the massage seats in my 2022 ST. Tech package, also have rear seats screens in the head rest and the 14 speakers upgraded system. Great comparison and review, really enjoy your videos. I love the Aviator, and could afford it but I went with the ST as I feel it is a bit more masculine and pretty much give me all the same options than the Aviator. If my wife was main driver I would have gone Aviator but she daily a Cadillac XT5 so it's my precious :)

[@CarsWithSteve]

Thanks so much! It's cool to hear why people choose one over the other so appreciate that share. The power between them is pretty close, it's the quieter cabin, air suspension and nicer interior of the Aviator that gives it a different vibe. Sounds like you're loving your ST so far! Check out the channel @KenKyleRacing - he's done some mods on his Explorer ST and races people on the track

[@briantoogood8928]

Thanks for this. What I really want to know is how do the interior finishing compare? Is it the same quality of plastic on both or is the Aviator of much higher quality?

[@CarsWithSteve]

You're welcome and great question! There's a definite difference in the design and feel of the Aviator compared to the Explorer. I found the interior components of the Aviator to be higher quality feel I'm going to use this question when shooting these compare videos in the future. I think giving feedback on the feel during the video would be a great idea!

[@Stmcead]

Serious question, is the Aviator appropriately compared to the ST or the Platinum?

[@CarsWithSteve]

Excellent question! I compared it to the ST for a reason but just realized I didn't really outline the reason as well as I should have in this video. The ST and Platinum do have the same 3.0L twin turbo but the ST is tuned differently. It has the same performance tune as the Aviator so is able to push out the same 400hp/410lb-ft torque. The true apples to apples comparison is the Explorer ST vs the Aviator

[@spacefras]

Which ones ride is the most comfortable. I have a Explorer st and the ride is not smooth.

[@CarsWithSteve]

The Aviator hands down is the more comfortable ride of the two. What year explorer do you have? Are you getting a vibration or steeling wheel shake?

[@spacefras]

@@CarsWithSteve I have a 2022 Explorer st. It just rides rough on some uneven roads and the wind noise is so bad. Some times I think one of the windows is rolled down and letting in wind noise

[@spacefras]

@@CarsWithSteve and yes there is a vibration in steering wheel.

[@CarsWithSteve]

Hmm.. by chance are you missing any seals around any of the windows? There shouldn't be excessive noise like a window is down though.. Has your dealer had a look at it yet? Vibration in the steering wheel is surprisingly sometimes caused from having the lane keep assist system activated (button on the tip of the left stick).

[@spacefras]

@@CarsWithSteve they told me it’s normal. I had a 2020 Explorer st before the pandemic and it was a better vehicle. The vibration Mostly happens if I’m on a rough road. At that time the whole car rattles

[@Shreyansvlogs562]

Great video I am thinking to buy a new car now I can buy explorer st . This video helped me a lot. Thank you

[@CarsWithSteve]

Thanks Shreyan! The explorer ST is a great ride. Glad the video helped you

[@richardvanderwoude7506]

Have a new 21 ST loaded. It is a fabulous car.

[@CarsWithSteve]

@@richardvanderwoude7506 Love to hear it! Have you had an Explorer before or first time owning one?

[@Hedo888]

Steve could you please compare the ST vs Hybrid Limited please 😊

[@CarsWithSteve]

Oh that's a great idea! Is there anything specific about those 2 that you want to see compared? I'll definitely add that to the schedule, thanks Hayder!

[@Hedo888]

@@CarsWithSteve power and features please. 😁. The wife want the hybrid after I sold mine Because I’m going to get the high performance one. That’s why 😊

[@CarsWithSteve]

@@Hedo888 Done! I'll add it to the list for you

[@Hedo888]

@@CarsWithSteve thank you very much

[@delorespico]

I would love to see the 2022 models. I seen a picture on google the explorer had a wood leather steering wheel.. I cannot find a video that has it... Do you which one has it? Is there a limited explorer or is it Platinum? Very confusing. Great video !

[@CarsWithSteve]

Thanks Delores! The 2022 models aren't out for a few more months but I'll definitely put one a compare video together when they start hitting dealership lots. The Explorer has the XLT, Limited, ST and Platinum trim levels. If you're contemplating ST or Platinum definitely go for the ST. Same 3.0L engine but tuned for more horsepower and torque at a cheaper price point

[@delorespico]

@@CarsWithSteve thank you. I will look again. Do u know which one had the wood leather wheel? I love that luxury feeling. I had a 2001 navigator and that had it that was awesome that navigator. Now the new one don’t even have it so disappointing. I know Mercedes has and Lexus gx and lx has but they do not have the digital speedometer and the GX also does not have Apple CarPlay which is crazy for that kind of money so I’m looking to find an SUV that has it and it’s very hard but I seen that picture of the 2021 explore they have to steer you up with the word on it I can’t find it but I’m really not caring about how fast it is I don’t have any children or anything I don’t drive that much I just want a comfortable drive and wanted to takeoff normally. Nice pick up no sluggish. And love those wide long sun roofs! I’m spending hours and hours on KZbin it is crazy. The Acura I watched q7 I think not remember 😥see I have a 2007 Toyota 4 runner limited I will be trading in .. time for a change. But I do not want to stick with Toyota again because they were behind on the tech they are behind on the tech I don’t know why. Help me 😭😭😭

[@CarsWithSteve]

Hey Delores, none of the Lincoln lineup have a wood grain steering wheel unfortunately. You could look at an aftermarket solution if that’s a look you really love though. To find the best ride, figure out your budget and what your needs are and then work from there. What price point are you wanting to stay in?

[@delorespico]

@@CarsWithSteve Hi Steve thanks for answering back well I could be in the 60 $70,000 range but I plan on leasing it so I’d drive less than 10,000 miles a year so five $600 payment a month is OK but I want to have the rear camera is a 360 rear camera I want the digital odometer and a nice looking flatscreen and it Hass to be an SUV I do not like to be low on the road because I’m only 4’ 10 and I have to be high up like I am with my Toyota 4 runner and I really likeTo have a 2 row but if I have to get 6 row that is ok I will just put the 3 row down.. I love the Escalade! Beautiful display in that. I cannot afford a 100k that is for sure. I love all the bells and whistles..

[@CarsWithSteve]

@@delorespico With the price point you've got in mind the Navigator would be out of the budget.. You could look at the Ford equivalent (the Expedition). If you want the added luxury interior and all the bells and whistles I'd recommend looking at the Nautilus or Aviator. The 2021 Nautilus got an upgrade this year. Aviator will be more powerful (3.0L twin turbo) vs Nautilus (2.7L turbo max) and the Aviator will sit a bit higher off the ground. If you haven't test driven either of those cars yet stop by a local Lincoln dealer to see how you like them. Here's a video on the Aviator vs the Nautilus - kzbin.info/www/bejne/iGrKqHuAYrugjpI

[@patriciarasmussen9674]

Why no cold/hot temperatures in the cup holders❓

[@CarsWithSteve]

I didn't think there were manufacturers that offered heated and cooled cup holders

[@mordauntbrabner3804]

Does the Aviator engine have deconflicted timing components? Over head cams?

[@CarsWithSteve]

Haven't spent much time lately chatting with the techs but now you've given me an idea for a video!

[@mordauntbrabner3804]

@@CarsWithSteve Steve, my wife’s 2010 range rover supercharge has a conflicted timing overhead cam system. If the timing chain brakes or the components fail the engine will suffer catastrophic damage. A timing chain, rail and tensor replacement is a major engine job costing $10,000 or more. The service is recommended every 80,000 miles and we are on our second. We are looking at the Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring 1, Yukon Denali and Lexus GX series for replacement. I am checking every one of them to determine what the long-term cost for maintenance and repair will be as we keep our vehicles in service for 200,000 miles or more. Already eliminated the Lexus for reliability issues.

[@CarsWithSteve]

@@mordauntbrabner3804 Makes sense. The Aviator is a newer vehicle (re-introduced in 2019) so it's unlikely someone has been able to get theirs to the 200,000 mile range yet for comparison. The Lincoln maintenance plans give you a good idea of rough cost of maintenance.. The Canadian plans range from 5 service appts over 40,000km/2 years for $1,400 to 25 service visits over 200,000km/8 ears for $5,300

[@chrisc5574]

Which has more cushioning in the seats? Or are they similar

[@CarsWithSteve]

The Aviator seats are more comfortable for sure, especially when you get into the Luxury Package with the Active Motion seats

[@chrisc5574]

@@CarsWithSteve awesome, thank you. Normally I would go sit in each but dealer has no inventory!

[@CarsWithSteve]

@@chrisc5574 you're welcome! Inventory is still pretty tight everywhere. Hoping that changes in the next 6 - 12 months though!

[@mabalyam765]

Night and Day comparison

[@CarsWithSteve]

It really is. Power wise they're the same but that's pretty much where it ends

[@wardellward]

Can u get a hybrid in the Ford Explorer

[@CarsWithSteve]

Yes you can! It's not as powerful as the Lincoln equivalent and doesn't have some of the same features but it's there. Check out the Explorer Limited - available with a 2.3L turbo or 3.3L hybrid

[@wardellward]

@@CarsWithSteve but The Aviator don't come with a 4-cylinder Turbo

[@CarsWithSteve]

@@wardellward That's right. The Aviator has the option for a 3.0L twin turbo v6 or a 3.0L twin turbo v6 with an electric power train. The Explorer hybrid is only available with the 3.3L v6. The Explorer ST has the same 3.0L twin turbo as the non hybrid Aviator

[@wardellward]

@@CarsWithSteve I remember it was a V8

[@CarsWithSteve]

@@wardellward it was a v8 back before Lincoln discontinued the Aviator back in 2005

[@kangming32]

Aviator reserve owner from CN,great ride for my family.Explorer is no rival to Aviator, clumsy to navigate and cheap interiors.

[@CarsWithSteve]

Yes! The interior is a huge difference between the two - I'd say the optional dynamic handling package pushes the Aviator way ahead of the Explorer as well. Is it your first time in a Lincoln?

[@kyaghleah]

What does the ST stand for? Special Terrific 🤪🤩🙄💪🏼🤙🏼

[@CarsWithSteve]

I think Strangely Titillating? 🧐

[@dennisb119]

14000 dollar difference for a few extra perks for the Lincoln no thanks

[@CarsWithSteve]

That's the beauty of choice!

[@nickelsworth7097]

If you can't afford it, you can't afford it.

[@chrisw9095]

You keep saying cigarette lighter adapter. Show us the cigarette lighter the Explorer comes with because you call it a power port on the Aviator. You leaft out some stuff. Get to know the vehicles so that you know what you're talking about.

[@CarsWithSteve]

As I'm sure you could imagine when shooting 30 - 60 minute improvised videos sometimes there may be a slip when explaining things. It's always nice having people like you so eloquently point out when there's something that I didn't explain the best. Appreciate you letting me know and thanks for the early morning laugh! 🤣

[@mariogambino6417]

FORD EXPLORER IS BETTER

[@CarsWithSteve]

Price wise it would be but the Aviator has active noise cancellation, air suspension and a few other features you won't be able to find in the Explorer!