Lincoln’s all-new Nautilus has taken the spotlight in 2025, outperforming a fiercely competitive field to be crowned SUV of the Year. With a fresh take on luxury and a cutting-edge user experience, the midsize SUV has elevated the Lincoln brand to a new level, surprising both industry watchers and seasoned evaluators alike.
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Why the 2025 Lincoln Nautilus Stands Out
Despite going head-to-head with formidable contenders like the Toyota Land Cruiser, Lexus GX550, Hyundai Santa Fe, Rivian R1S, GMC Hummer SUV, and even Mercedes-Benz’s G-Class, the Nautilus consistently impressed throughout testing. Its premium feel, smart engineering, and thoughtful luxury features made it a standout choice.
“The Nautilus elevates the Lincoln badge with true luxury innovation,” said one judge.
What Is the 2025 Lincoln Nautilus?
Positioned between the three-row Aviator and the smaller Corsair, the second-generation Nautilus is a two-row, five-passenger SUV offering:
- Three trims: Premiere ($52,010), Reserve ($56,445), and Black Label ($75,945)
- Two powertrain options:
- 2.0L turbocharged inline-four (250 hp / 280 lb-ft)
- Optional hybrid with eCVT (300 hp / 295 lb-ft)
- All-Wheel Drive standard across all models
The range-topping Black Label trim dazzles with features like:
- Illuminated “glider” grille and taillight light show
- Optional Jet Appearance Package with blacked-out accents and 22-inch wheels
- 24-way massaging front seats with heating and ventilation
- 48-inch full-width wraparound digital display
- 28-speaker Revel audio system
- Premium Redwood Venetian leather seats with white accent stitching
- Onboard ambient fragrances and extensive material detailing
Performance and Efficiency
| Specification | Hybrid Powertrain |
|---|---|
| Total Output | 300 hp / 295 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph | 6.9 seconds |
| Quarter-Mile | 15.2 sec @ 96 mph |
| Braking (60-0 mph) | 133 ft |
| EPA Fuel Economy | 30/31/30 mpg (City/Highway/Combined) |
| Estimated Range | ~600 miles |
| Curb Weight | 4,715 lbs |
| Drive | AWD |
| Transmission | eCVT with motor-generators |
Though it doesn’t aim for athleticism, the Nautilus is comfortable, capable, and refined—especially in Excite mode, which livens up handling for spirited driving.
Engineering Excellence & Innovative Design
Lincoln’s blend of style and substance shines through in the 2025 Nautilus:
- Wraparound 48-inch screen redefines the digital interface, merging infotainment and driver display without overwhelming the user
- Minimalist, ergonomic controls, including intuitive thumb-sensitive steering wheel buttons
- Hybrid powertrain integration is seamless—quiet, smooth, and responsive
- Lincoln transformed its C2 architecture (shared with the Escape and Bronco Sport) into a legitimate luxury platform that competes with Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz
“The screen feels like it was designed for serenity, not complexity,” noted one evaluator.
Comfort and Cabin Experience
Lincoln describes its interiors as “sanctuaries,” and the Nautilus proves it’s not just marketing fluff:
- Plush, mid-century-modern-inspired seating that’s arguably more comfortable in the rear than the front
- Adjustable thigh support cushions and premium touchpoints
- A focus on relaxation, with a “Calm” mode that dims the screen and minimizes distractions
- Acoustically isolated for quiet rides and paired with active noise cancellation
Safety and Value
- Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS
- Pricing starts at $52,010 and tops out around $80,000—competitive for a luxury SUV
- Offers more features than many compact competitors, including loaded crossovers that can exceed its base price
Even fully loaded, the Nautilus provides excellent value when stacked against rivals from Lexus, Cadillac, Genesis, Infiniti, and Volvo, not to mention its German luxury competition.
Is It Perfect? Not Quite—But Close
Like any vehicle, the Nautilus has a few quirks:
- The main touchscreen interface lacks the refinement of the larger wraparound display
- Excite mode helps spice up performance, but it’s still no sports SUV
- Some may be put off by its manufacturing origin—yes, it’s built in China—but quality and refinement remain high
Despite minor drawbacks, the overall package impresses. The Lincoln Nautilus doesn’t just aim to compete in the luxury SUV space—it delivers a distinct experience that redefines what a midsize luxury crossover can be.
Final Verdict: A New Era for Lincoln
The 2025 Nautilus is more than just a strong product—it’s a statement vehicle for the brand. Whether it’s the serene in-cabin experience, jaw-dropping design, or smart hybrid integration, it shows that Lincoln is not only staying relevant—it’s setting new standards.
“This SUV makes every occupant feel special—no compromises,” said one expert reviewer.
For drivers looking to balance style, tech, comfort, and value in a luxury SUV, the new Lincoln Nautilus deserves a top spot on the shortlist.
