The 2024 Lincoln Nautilus Review: A Classy SUV for the Digital Age

Luxury SUVs are like your favorite café latte…they’re smooth, indulgent, and pretty much everywhere. Enter the 2024 Lincoln Nautilus, a mid-size luxury SUV that’s here to take on the crème de la crème of the mid-tier lux SUV segment. With fancy new tech, revamped styling, and a focus on serenity, this Lincoln wants to make your daily drive feel like a first-class cabin at 35,000 feet. Does it deliver on all those promises though, or is it just a fancy suit without the substance? Come with us as we aim to find out.

A Dapper Exterior

The Nautilus has always been easy on the eyes, but the 2024 model amps it up a notch. Lincoln has tweaked the front end, added sharper LED lighting, and given the grille a little extra sparkle…think subtle elegance, not Vegas neon. The overall look? Sophisticated but approachable, like that well-dressed person at the party who isn’t afraid to poke fun of themselves or laugh at their own jokes.

Available in a range of discerning colors like Crystal Red and Diamond Blue, the Nautilus also offers various wheel designs, ranging from 19 inches to a massive 22 inches (our choice). You can tailor its look to be as understated or bold as you like.

What’s it Got Under the Hood?

The 2024 Nautilus comes with two powertrain options, and while it’s not a speed demon, it’s certainly equipped with enough pep to keep you satisfied.

  • 2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4:
    • 250 horsepower, 275 lb-ft of torque.
    • Smooth and efficient for everyday driving.
  • 2.7L Twin-Turbocharged V6:
    • 335 horsepower, 380 lb-ft of torque.
    • The pick for those who want a little more oomph.

Both engines are paired with an 8-speed auto transmission and come with all-wheel drive as standard. Whether you’re zipping around town or cruising down the Interstate, the Nautilus feels poised and composed, though don’t expect it to win any drag races against a BMW X5.

Step Inside to a Tech Wonderland

The real showstopper in the 2024 Lincoln Nautilus is the interior. Lincoln has thrown out the old playbook and gone balls to the wall on tech, luxury, and comfort.

Interior Features
  • Massive 48-Inch Display:
    • Yes, you read that right—48 inches of digital real estate spans the dashboard, seamlessly combining the instrument cluster and infotainment screen.
    • It’s bold, futuristic, and surprisingly user-friendly.
  • Premium Materials:
    • Soft-touch leather, open-pore wood, and brushed aluminum accents abound.
    • Even the base trim feels a notch above its price point.
  • Available Ambient Lighting:
    • Pick your vibe with a range of colors—perfect for date night or calming road trips.
Comfort & Space
  • Seating for five with ample legroom in both rows.
  • Optional 24-way power-adjustable front seats with massage functionality.
  • Cargo space is generous, with 37.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 68.8 cubic feet with them folded.

Trims & Options: Which One Best Fits Your Style?

The 2024 Lincoln Nautilus comes in three trims, each catering to different tastes and budgets.

  1. Standard:
    • 2.0L Turbo engine, synthetic leather seats, and 18-inch wheels.
    • Lincoln Co-Pilot360 safety suite (adaptive cruise, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking).
    • Perfect for those who want luxury without breaking the bank.
  2. Reserve:
    • Adds genuine leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and a 14-speaker Revel audio system.
    • Includes more customization options like larger wheels and enhanced tech packages.
  3. Black Label:
    • The crème de la crème with the 2.7L V6, exclusive interior themes, and 21-inch wheels.
    • Includes a membership to Lincoln’s Black Label program, with perks like free maintenance and concierge services.
Interesting Add-Ons
  • Ultra Comfort Package: For those who want to feel like royalty with ventilated, massaging seats.
  • Dynamic Handling Package: Includes adaptive suspension for a smoother, sportier ride.
  • Monochromatic Appearance Package: Sleek and rather menacing all-black styling.

A Smooth Operator

On the road, the 2024 Nautilus is all about comfort and composure. The suspension soaks up potholes like a pro, and the cabin is whisper-quiet, thanks to active noise cancellation. Lincoln has clearly prioritized making your drive as relaxing as possible and it shows.

What About the Handling?

While it’s not exactly sporty, the Nautilus feels stable and confident around corners. The available adaptive suspension adds a layer of finesse, but if you’re looking for razor-sharp dynamics, you might want to consider German competitors.

Fuel Economy
  • 2.0L Turbo: EPA-rated at 21 mpg city/26 mpg highway.
  • 2.7L V6: Slightly thirstier at 19 mpg city/25 mpg highway.

The Nautilus Competition

The luxury mid-size SUV segment is packed with heavyweights. Here’s how the Nautilus stacks up against some of its main rivals:

  1. Lexus RX
    • Strengths: Reliability, hybrid options, tech-laden interior.
    • Why It’s a Threat: The RX is a legend in this segment with a loyal following.
  2. BMW X5
    • Strengths: Dynamic handling, powerful engine options, premium interior.
    • Why It’s a Threat: It offers more driving engagement, though at a steeper price.
  3. Genesis GV80
    • Strengths: Stunning design, luxurious interior, competitive pricing.
    • Why It’s a Threat: Genesis has been on a roll, and the GV80 is a showstopper.
  4. Volvo XC90
    • Strengths: Safety, Scandinavian elegance, hybrid powertrains.
    • Why It’s a Threat: The XC90’s minimalist design is hard to beat for those who love understated luxury.
  5. Acura MDX
    • Strengths: Sharp handling, spacious interior, strong value.
    • Why It’s a Threat: Offers a sporty edge without sacrificing practicality.

Some Pros and Cons of the Lincoln Nautilus

Pros
  • Stunning 48-inch display and tech-forward interior.
  • Comfortable, serene ride quality.
  • Generous standard features for the price.
Cons
  • Not as engaging to drive as some competitors.
  • Fuel economy could be better.
  • Limited engine options.

Final Verdict: Should You Consider the Nautilus?

The 2024 Lincoln Nautilus is a solid contender in the luxury mid-size SUV world. It’s not the flashiest or the sportiest option, but it excels in delivering comfort, elegance, and some pretty cutting-edge tech. Whether you’re tackling your daily commute or taking a weekend getaway, the Nautilus is like that trusty friend who always knows how to keep things chill.

But don’t just take my word for it…what do you think? Is the 2024 Lincoln Nautilus the right blend of style and substance, or would you go for one of its many luxury SUV rivals? Drop your thoughts in the comments below.

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