2024 Lincoln Nautilus: A Comprehensive Review of Luxury, Technology, and Performance
As Lincoln continues to evolve in the highly competitive luxury SUV market, the 2024 Lincoln Nautilus represents a major step forward in competing with established rivals like the Audi Q5, BMW X5, and Mercedes-Benz GLE. This model is more than just an update; it’s a full redesign that incorporates cutting-edge technology, a modern powertrain lineup, and a host of advanced driver assistance features. With a focus on comfort, innovation, and luxury, Lincoln aims to set the Nautilus apart from the competition by providing an experience that appeals to tech-savvy and luxury-conscious consumers alike.

In this detailed review, we’ll break down every aspect of the 2024 Lincoln Nautilus, from its standout features and technology to its driving dynamics and interior luxury. This blog is designed to not only provide all the essential details but also to highlight the key aspects that make the new Nautilus a serious contender in the luxury SUV space.
A Bold Introduction: The Panoramic Dashboard Display
The 48-inch panoramic dashboard display is, without a doubt, the centerpiece of the 2024 Lincoln Nautilus. It’s a technological marvel, offering drivers a sweeping view of essential information across the entire front of the cabin. This display sets the Nautilus apart from nearly every other vehicle in its class, emphasizing that Lincoln is serious about offering a futuristic driving experience.
- Dual-Screen Setup: The dashboard display is divided into two screens. On the left, you have a standard instrument cluster displaying speed, fuel levels, and other critical driving data. On the right, you can view secondary information such as media controls, navigation, and weather updates. The left-hand screen is controlled by the driver, while the right-hand side can be adjusted using the 11.1-inch central touchscreen.
- Calm Mode for Focused Driving: One of the challenges with such a massive display is managing the information without overwhelming the driver. Lincoln tackles this issue with Calm Mode, a feature that minimizes distractions by simplifying the display, showing only the most important information directly in front of the driver. This mode is ideal for those who prefer a cleaner, more focused interface when driving.
While the 48-inch display is visually striking, it’s worth noting that its usability could be improved. For example, the right side of the display is limited in functionality, mainly showing items like weather information, the clock, and tire pressure. Expanding these options to include more dynamic and customizable information, such as navigation maps, would make the display even more user-friendly and practical.
Unique Steering Design: The Squircle Wheel
To fully capitalize on the panoramic display, Lincoln has equipped the Nautilus with a “squircle” steering wheel—a cross between a square and a circle. This design keeps more of the screen visible, allowing drivers to take full advantage of the display’s width without having their view obstructed by a traditional circular steering wheel.
- Driver Comfort and Visibility: The shape of the steering wheel is specifically designed for better visibility of the display. For drivers who like to position the steering wheel lower, the squircle design ensures that the upper part of the wheel doesn’t block the dashboard. However, during testing, taller drivers found that even with the squircle design, the steering wheel could still block some of the screen when fully adjusted.
- Touch-Sensitive Controls: In keeping with the high-tech theme of the Nautilus, the steering wheel also features touch-sensitive control pads for adjusting audio, cruise control, and other settings. When you use these controls, a visual representation of what you’re adjusting pops up on the dashboard display, which makes it intuitive to use.
While the touch-sensitive controls add a modern touch, they can be somewhat less practical than traditional hard buttons, especially when driving. The tactile feedback from physical buttons can often be quicker and more reliable when making quick adjustments, such as changing the volume or cruise control settings.


Lincoln Digital Experience: Google Built-In, But with Flexibility
The Lincoln Digital Experience multimedia system is powered by Google built-in, a major selling point for tech enthusiasts. The system integrates Google’s ecosystem directly into the vehicle, offering seamless access to Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play Store.
- Google Maps Navigation: One of the key benefits of Google built-in is the navigation system, which uses Google Maps. This means you get real-time traffic data, optimized route suggestions, and the ability to sync your destinations across all your devices. Google Maps in the Nautilus is more detailed and accurate than most standard car navigation systems, making it an invaluable feature for frequent travelers.
- Google Play Store: You can also download apps from the Google Play Store directly onto the car’s multimedia system. This gives drivers access to a range of apps tailored for in-car use, such as Spotify or Podcasts, enhancing the driving experience.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto:
Even though the Lincoln Digital Experience is powered by Google, the Nautilus still supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This flexibility is a welcome addition, as it allows drivers who are more comfortable with these systems to integrate their smartphones easily.
While the Google built-in system is robust, controlling things like the air vents via the touchscreen can feel cumbersome. Traditional physical controls for basic functions, like adjusting the air flow, are quicker and more intuitive. In this case, Lincoln may have prioritized form over function, as the touch controls look modern but can be less convenient for drivers who value simplicity.
Performance and Powertrains: Hybrid Efficiency vs Gasoline Power
When it comes to performance, the 2024 Lincoln Nautilus offers two powertrain options: a traditional gasoline engine and a hybrid drivetrain. Both options deliver a solid balance of power and fuel efficiency, though they cater to slightly different driving preferences.
Hybrid Drivetrain:
- The hybrid powertrain in the Nautilus offers a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine combined with an electric motor, delivering 250 horsepower. This combination provides a more eco-friendly driving experience without sacrificing too much in terms of power.
- Fuel Efficiency: One of the standout features of the hybrid model is its 30 MPG combined fuel economy, which is impressive for a vehicle of this size. This makes it an excellent option for drivers looking to minimize their carbon footprint without giving up the luxury and performance that the Nautilus offers.
Gasoline Powertrain:
- The standard gasoline model comes with a 2.7-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, producing 335 horsepower. This engine is more powerful than the hybrid option, giving the Nautilus a more responsive feel on the road.
- The gasoline model, while less fuel-efficient than the hybrid, offers a more traditional driving experience, with a focus on smooth acceleration and power delivery.
Ride Quality and Handling: Smooth, But Could Be Better
For a luxury SUV, one of the key expectations is a smooth and refined ride. The 2024 Lincoln Nautilus mostly delivers in this area, but it’s not without a few drawbacks.
- Smooth Yet Firm Ride: The Nautilus is equipped with an adaptive suspension system, which is designed to adjust the ride based on the driving conditions. On smooth roads, the ride is excellent, providing the kind of plush comfort that Lincoln is known for. However, when the road gets rough, the ride can feel surprisingly firm, even with the adaptive suspension. The optional 21-inch wheels can exacerbate this, as they make the ride feel less cushioned over potholes and bumps.
- Unexpected Bounciness: One issue we encountered during our test drive was a slight bounciness over small road imperfections. For a luxury SUV in this price range, it’s a bit disappointing that the Nautilus doesn’t soak up bumps as well as some of its competitors. This can detract from the overall premium driving experience, especially on longer journeys.
BlueCruise: Hands-Free Driving for the Modern World
One of the most advanced features available in the 2024 Lincoln Nautilus is BlueCruise, Lincoln’s hands-free driving system. This feature, which builds on adaptive cruise control and lane-centering technology, allows the vehicle to drive itself on designated highways, offering a glimpse into the future of autonomous driving.
How BlueCruise Works:
- BlueCruise uses cameras and sensors to monitor the road ahead and surrounding traffic. On BlueCruise-enabled highways, the system can take over the driving responsibilities, allowing you to take your hands off the wheel for extended periods.
- The system provides real-time updates on its status via the dashboard, ensuring the driver knows when BlueCruise is available and when they need to retake control.
During testing, we found BlueCruise to be highly effective on long stretches of highway. It’s particularly useful for reducing driver fatigue on long trips, as it handles most of the routine driving tasks like maintaining speed, adjusting for traffic, and keeping the vehicle centered in its lane. However, BlueCruise isn’t perfect in more congested areas, where traffic patterns are constantly changing.
2024 Lincoln Nautilus Interior Comfort and Cabin Quality: A True Luxury Experience
Lincoln has always prioritized luxury, and the 2024 Nautilus is no exception. The interior is crafted with premium materials, and the cabin exudes a sense of quiet refinement.


- High-Quality Materials: The Nautilus features soft leather upholstery, real wood trim, and a fully customizable ambient lighting system. Every surface you touch feels premium, contributing to the luxury atmosphere.
- Seating Comfort: The seats are plush and supportive, making the Nautilus an ideal companion for long drives. Massage seats are available as an option, adding an extra layer of comfort.
- Spacious Rear Seating: Passengers in the rear are treated to ample legroom and headroom, ensuring a comfortable ride for everyone. The rear seats also recline, a feature often found only in higher-end luxury SUVs.
2024 Lincoln Nautilus vs. Competitors: How It Stacks Up
To truly understand where the 2024 Lincoln Nautilus stands, it’s important to compare it with some of its key competitors. Below is a table comparing the Lincoln Nautilus, Audi Q5, BMW X5, and Mercedes-Benz GLE in several key areas:
Feature | Lincoln Nautilus | Audi Q5 | BMW X5 | Mercedes-Benz GLE |
---|---|---|---|---|
Horsepower (Gas) | 335 HP | 261 HP | 335 HP | 362 HP |
Fuel Economy (Hybrid) | 30 MPG | 27 MPG | 26 MPG | 25 MPG |
Dashboard Display | 48-inch | 12.3-inch | 12.3-inch | 12.3-inch |
Hands-Free Driving | BlueCruise | None | None | Available |
Starting Price | $51,810 | $45,395 | $65,200 | $57,700 |
As the table shows, the 2024 Lincoln Nautilus offers some unique advantages, especially when it comes to technology and pricing. While its competitors may excel in areas like performance or brand prestige, the Nautilus strikes a balance between luxury, technology, and value that makes it a compelling option in the midsize luxury SUV segment.
Final Thoughts: Is the 2024 Lincoln Nautilus Worth It?
The 2024 Lincoln Nautilus offers a blend of high-tech features, luxurious comfort, and solid performance, making it a strong contender in the luxury SUV market. While there are some areas that could be improved—such as ride comfort and touch-sensitive controls—the Nautilus stands out with its futuristic dashboard, flexible multimedia system, and innovative BlueCruise technology.
For those looking for a tech-forward luxury SUV that prioritizes style, innovation, and comfort, the 2024 Lincoln Nautilus is an exciting option that shouldn’t be overlooked. While it may not surpass some of its German rivals in sheer driving dynamics, it more than makes up for it with a uniquely American take on luxury and convenience.
With its competitive pricing, top-tier technology, and Lincoln’s signature attention to detail, the 2024 Nautilus proves that Lincoln can still be a force to reckon with in the luxury SUV landscape.
The 2024 Lincoln Nautilus is expected to be available in late 2023 or early 2024, depending on your region. You can contact your local Lincoln dealer for specific availability dates.
The starting price for the 2024 Lincoln Nautilus is approximately $51,810. Higher trims, such as the Black Label edition, will have a higher price point depending on customizations and additional features.
While the 2024 Lincoln Nautilus offers a hybrid variant, it is not a plug-in hybrid. The hybrid model combines a gasoline engine with electric assistance to improve fuel efficiency, but it doesn’t require external charging.