Lincoln, the luxury brand for Ford, is finally starting to spread its wings and make crossovers and SUVs that standout in the crowded luxury market.
The Lincoln lineup has seen a lot of changes the last two years and for the better. The five-seat, midsize Nautilus is the latest to see change.
Now, this luxury Lincoln has a refreshing new face that will make you do a double take when you see it for the first time. No longer just a gussied-up-looking Ford, its expressive new grill design with illuminated Lincoln Star gives it a special look.
The Reserve AWD version also comes with the Jet Appearance package, adding slick-looking, 22-inch wheels and front and rear bumpers finished in the same Red Carpet paint color. Even the front rear LED lighting gives a cool light show when you unlock or lock your Lincoln.
The interior of the Lincoln Nautilus saw an even bigger transformation. It’s a big step up from the previous version.
You first notice the dash that now has 48 inches — yes, four feet of screens that stretch the width of the interior. You can break up the display up into two to six different screens, each showing something unique.
Plus, a more traditional center touch screen helps control the big screens, NAV and radio functions, but it takes a little practice.
The optional 24-way Perfect Position seats offer massages and make for an easy, long trip. The leather, wood and aluminum trim are top notch for this class. Back seat riders are treated to heated seats and ample legroom, but headroom for taller riders might feel slightly limited.
The Lincoln Nautilus comes as a hybrid or with a turbo, four-cylinder engine. The hybrid version I drove felt peppy enough in most situations. It has a hushed ride, and even when you mash the gas on the four-cylinder engine, it was never loud or harsh.
On the highway, it is equipped with the usual adaptive cruise control but also with BlueCruise that allows hands-free driving on many highways.
Do not expect a very sporty driving experience when the road becomes curvy. This is more of a relaxing SUV with more lean in sharp quick curves.
Cost: $54,750; as tested $66,430
MPG: 30 mpg city and 31 mpg highway; I managed 27.8 mpg in 487 miles.
Safety: 360-degree camera; enhanced active park assist; adaptive cruise control with stop and go; lane centering; blind spot detection with CTA; personal safety system; pre-collision assist; Lincoln co-pilot 360; dynamic brake support; lane-keeping system
Options: $10,005 Equipment group 203A; $1,500 2.0L GTDI FHEV engine; $3,000 Jet Appearance package; $750 Red Carpet metallic tinted clear coat
Things to know: Lincoln has made the Nautilus a worthy luxury crossover with its fresh makeover. Sporting a new look and impressive technology — plus with BlueCruise — it can take over some of the highway driving.
Pros:
- BlueCruise will help with highway driving with hands-free capabilities
- Upscale new interior with great seats and improved technology with screens everywhere
- Pleasing new look that’s more in line for a luxury crossover
Cons:
- Price tag jumps quickly with options
- Stylish body design means less back seat headroom
- Hybrid power train didn’t provide very good mpg
