Lincoln Nautilus 2024: An Overview
The Lincoln Nautilus, a mid-size luxury crossover, has undergone significant changes as it enters its second generation. The update includes a 310-horsepower hybrid powertrain option, standard all-wheel drive, and a spacious interior with abundant screen space.
While the base engine remains a 250-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the new chassis offers increased legroom for all five passengers. The dashboard features a large customizable digital display spanning 48.0 inches, providing navigation, clock, stereo settings, and weather forecast information.
Despite these updates, the Nautilus may still face stiff competition from segment leaders like the Genesis GV80, Porsche Cayenne, and BMW X5. However, the Nautilus impresses with its attractive starting price and generous standard equipment compared to those SUVs.
What’s New for 2024?
As the Nautilus enters its third generation, Lincoln has given the crossover a fresh look inside and out. Riding on a revised version of Ford’s C2 platform shared with the Escape, Bronco Sport, and Maverick, the Nautilus showcases extensive updates to its interior and exterior. Additionally, a new 310-horsepower hybrid powertrain is now available, replacing the V-6 option. Furthermore, all-wheel drive is now standard across the lineup.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
The midrange Reserve trim offers added appeal to the Nautilus. For a modest increase in price, buyers gain access to the Jet appearance package, which includes striking 22-inch dark wheels with chrome inserts, paint-matching cladding, fenders, wheel arches, and a black-painted roof.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Every Nautilus is equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine. Non-hybrid models deliver 250 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The hybrid variant combines the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine with a 100 kW electric motor, producing a total output of 310 horsepower.
The hybrid powertrain is coupled with a continuously variable transmission, and both options come with all-wheel drive. The previous Nautilus 330-hp twin-turbo V-6 has been discontinued. The new powertrains are expected to offer improved fuel economy compared to the V-6, but performance tests are yet to determine if the new Nautilus can match the previous generation’s 5.9-second 0-60 mph acceleration achieved with the twin-turbo V-6.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
Official fuel economy estimates for the new Nautilus have not been released by the EPA or Lincoln. However, considering the similar power outputs between the old and new models, it is expected that the base-engine model will maintain around 22 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway. As for the hybrid, its fuel economy is anticipated to be similar to the Ford Escape Hybrid, which could result in approximately 37 mpg city and 33 mpg highway for the Nautilus hybrid model. Official numbers will be updated when available.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The interior of the new Nautilus has received a remarkable overhaul. The five-passenger crossover boasts a completely redesigned cockpit with enhanced leather, larger screens, and ambient lighting. The Nautilus can be equipped with Lincoln Rejuvenate, a feature that transforms the interior ambiance through lighting, seat positioning, screen visuals, and massaging-seat settings, providing a spa-like experience. Aromas ranging from patchouli to cashmere to fresh linen can be released through scent cartridges in the center armrest. Additionally, the Nautilus offers a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D audio system and 24-way power.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Lincoln proudly claims that the Nautilus dashboard’s top display area of 48.0 inches is the best in its class. However, when measured vertically, it doesn’t quite match an IMAX theatre. In addition to the widescreen, there is an 11.1-inch high-resolution touchscreen for the infotainment system mounted at the center of the dashboard. The Nautilus offers wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and it also features built-in Alexa for voice commands.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
All Nautilus models come standard with Lincoln’s Co-Pilot360 suite of driver-assistance features. The Nautilus also offers the option of Lincoln’s hands-free highway driver-assist technology. For detailed information about Nautilus’s crash test results, you can visit the websites of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Key safety features include:
- Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Standard lane-keeping assist with lane-departure warning
- Standard adaptive cruise control with a lane-centering feature
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
While the Lincoln Nautilus has a longer powertrain warranty compared to rivals like the Volvo XC90 and Audi Q8, its bumper-to-bumper policy doesn’t surpass what others in the segment offer. Opting for the higher-end Black Label trim provides additional dealership perks, such as four years of complimentary scheduled maintenance, an annual detailing service for the first four years of ownership, and a culinary concierge for restaurant reservations.
- The limited warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers 6 years or 70,000 miles
- Complimentary scheduled maintenance is covered for up to 4 years or 50,000 miles
