The luxury midsize SUV segment is brimming with strong contenders, but the 2025 Lincoln Nautilus carves out a unique space with its sophisticated styling, cutting-edge technology, and serene driving experience. For buyers seeking an American alternative to European luxury SUVs, the new Nautilus offers an enticing blend of innovation and comfort.
What is the Lincoln Nautilus?
The Lincoln Nautilus is a midsize luxury SUV positioned between the compact Lincoln Corsair and the larger Lincoln Aviator. Originally introduced in 2019 as a refreshed version of the Lincoln MKX, the Nautilus has evolved significantly. The 2025 model year marks a bold new chapter with a fully redesigned exterior, revamped cabin, and advanced tech integration.
Striking Exterior:
One of the most striking aspects of the 2025 Nautilus is its sleek, futuristic design with sculpted contours. The exterior sports a prominent new grille design flanked by slim LED headlamps, while flowing lines and a sleek silhouette give it a commanding road presence. The rear profile features a full-width LED light bar, emphasizing Lincoln’s move toward a more modern and cohesive SUV design language.
Key Exterior Features:
- Full-width signature LED lighting
- Alloy wheels range from 20 to 22 inches, depending on the selected trim level.
- New BlueCruise 1.2 badge for hands-free driving (on select models)
- Panoramic Vista Roof available
Interior Design:
Step inside the new Nautilus, and you’re immediately greeted by what Lincoln calls a “digital sanctuary.” The centerpiece of the cabin is an expansive 48-inch panoramic display that stretches across the dashboard. This seamlessly integrates vehicle information, media, navigation, and ambient lighting controls.
Premium materials like leather upholstery, open-pore wood trim, and brushed aluminum accents give the cabin an upscale feel. Ambient lighting and Lincoln’s signature “Rejuvenate” mode, which combines visuals, lighting, seat massage, and fragrance, transform daily drives into moments of calm.
Interior Highlights:
- 48″ panoramic display + 11.1″ center touchscreen
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Revel® 19-speaker audio system
- Available Lincoln Rejuvenate experience
- ActiveGlide 1.2 hands-free highway driving (on higher trims)
Performance:
The 2025 Lincoln Nautilus offers a choice between two distinct powertrain options:
- 2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4:
- 250 hp and 275 lb-ft of torque
- Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission
- Standard across most trims
- 2.0L Turbocharged Hybrid:
- A combined output of 310 horsepower from the gasoline engine and electric motor.
- Smooth and quiet power delivery
- Better fuel efficiency for eco-conscious drivers
All-wheel drive (AWD) is standard on all models, improving traction and confidence in diverse road conditions.
Technology and Infotainment:
Lincoln places a strong emphasis on in-cabin technology, and the 2025 Nautilus delivers impressively on that front. The new 48-inch display spans the dashboard and works in tandem with a floating 11.1-inch center screen. Both displays support OTA (Over-the-Air) updates and run on the new Android Automotive OS, meaning you get apps like Google Maps, Assistant, and more built in.
Key Technology Features:
- Google Built-In (Maps, Assistant, Play Store)
- Over-the-Air software updates
- Wireless smartphone charging pad
- Full-color head-up display
- Advanced driver assistance with Lincoln Co-Pilot360 2.1
Safety Features:
The 2025 Nautilus comes equipped with Lincoln Co-Pilot360™ 2.1, a suite of advanced safety and driver assistance features, many of which are standard across the lineup. It includes:
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go
- Lane-Keeping System
- Evasive Steering Assist
- Intersection Assist
- Blind Spot Information System (BLIS)
- Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking
Top trims also get ActiveGlide hands-free highway driving, making long journeys more relaxed and secure.
Trims and Pricing
The 2025 Lincoln Nautilus comes in several well-equipped trim levels. While exact pricing may vary by market, here’s a general overview:
| Trim Level | Starting Price (USD) | Key Highlights |
| Premiere | ~$51,000 | AWD, 48″ display, Co-Pilot360™ |
| Reserve | ~$56,000 | Leather seats, ambient lighting |
| Black Label | ~$75,000 | Exclusive interior themes, Revel® audio |
Note: Hybrid powertrains are available as an upgrade on select trims.
Lincoln Nautilus vs Competitors
Here’s how the Nautilus stacks up against some popular midsize luxury SUVs:
| Feature | Lincoln Nautilus | BMW X5 | Lexus RX | Cadillac XT5 |
| Base Price (USD) | ~$51,000 | ~$66,000 | ~$49,000 | ~$45,000 |
| Max Horsepower | 310 hp (hybrid) | 375 hp | 275 hp | 310 hp |
| Infotainment Display | 48″ panoramic | 14.9″ touchscreen | 14″ touchscreen | 8″ touchscreen |
| Hands-Free Driving | Available (ActiveGlide) | Available | Not available | Not available |
Conclusion:
The 2025 Lincoln Nautilus successfully redefines what an American luxury SUV can be. From its high-tech cabin and elegant styling to its smooth hybrid option and advanced safety tech, the Nautilus delivers impressive value. While it may not yet carry the same prestige as European brands, it stands tall with its unique charm and forward-thinking design.
