Can the 2019 Lincoln Nautilus Torpedo the Competition? | Edmunds

The 2019 Nautilus replaces the MKX as Lincoln's midsize SUV offering, and it is more than just a name change. Lincoln has updated the styling and added more options for powertrains and safety suites, as well as bundled various concierge-type services in with Lincoln leasing or ownership. It's part of a move to give each Lincoln model its own identity. Does the newly named Nautilus rise to the top? Edmunds special correspondent Elana Scherr takes a first drive around Santa Barbara, California, in a 2019 Black Label Gala-themed Nautilus.

Q: Why did Lincoln go with a smaller engine for the 2019 Lincoln Nautilus?
A: On first glance it might seem like a downgrade to have the base engine in MKX (the V6) become the top engine in the Nautilus. But Lincoln says the change from a six-speed transmission to the new eight-speed allows the smaller 250-horsepower turbo 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine to match the performance of the previous V6 and get better mileage. And it says the 335-hp twin-turbo 2.7-liter V6 with the new eight-speed performs better still and gets more miles on each tank. Previously the MKX was rated at 19 or 20 mpg combined, depending on the configuration, and through the magic of more gears, the front-wheel-drive Nautilus gets 23 mpg combined with the 2.0-liter engine and 21 mpg combined with the 2.7-liter. The combined figure drops 1 mpg if you go with the optional all-wheel drive, but the fuel economy ratings still beat the previous year's.

Q: Is the 2019 Lincoln Nautilus rear-wheel-drive?
A: The 2019 Lincoln Nautilus is a front-wheel-drive platform, and it's also available in an all-wheel-drive configuration. In typical driving situations, the Nautilus is FWD, only engaging the rear wheels as driving wheels when it senses the driver needs more grip, like on a slippery driveway.

Q: The 2018 Lincoln Navigator had a great interior. How does the 2019 Lincoln Nautilus compare?
A: While the interior in the 2019 Lincoln Nautilus isn't quite as jaw-dropping as the Lincoln Navigator's or the Continental's, it is in keeping with Lincoln's push to be stylish and innovative in interior design. The seats are comfortable and adjustable, and all the controls and storage compartments are within easy reach.

[ItsMeCJ]

Loved her style of reviewing. She speaks from the perspective of the average consumer rather than an enthusiast. It was very refreshing to not have to listen to whether the dash was soft touch or not, or if the door sounded solid when it closed, if the backup camera quality wasn’t super crisp (as long as its very usable, ppl really don’t care), 0-60 time, and the list goes on.

[FoodyTunes]

This reviewer is refreshing to watch - a fun personality and lots of helpful info packed into this vid

[swanblake]

As long as Lincoln watches it price, it has some great offerings. Also love that they are using real names now for there vehicles.

[reyjustimbaste]

what a refreshing point of view. a realistic review and expectations of a car. more reviews should be done like this, from a normal users perspective.

[sebastian]

lincoln makes the best cars in america! very nice design also!

[joehartselle]

She gives incredible reviews. Totally logic based. When I buy a car, after reliability, I car most about what it will be like to operate the vehicle on a day to day basis. She covers every aspect of what it’s like to live in the car and operate every little thing in the car. Again, just super informative.

[JTL-uvcm]

No. The main reason why is because this is just a refresh. If this had a modern Lincoln interior(aviator) than I truly believe this possibly could. However with the incredible outdated interior, this car just isn’t worth the price tag.

[BeesonsCars]

Very impressed with this reviewer, she’s very in-depth and gives great info.

[unclejesse]

As a Lincoln tech, I cringed both times she pushed opened the cubby (where the phone goes), then pulled it closed. Correct operation is push open, push closed. When you pull closed you break the latch that holds the cubby open. I replace those cubbies all the time on mkx.

[aryehrosenthal]

Can you please film a full review of the all-new Aviator?

[RichardShelton]

Nice review! My hot rod days are long gone, I'm much more interested in a serene, comfortable drive now. The Nautilus may be it.

[JulezWinnfield]

Here's a good trick for remembering which gear you're in Elana (at the 05:58 videomark). The specified switch button should be illuminated, but easier still...if the car is going forward, it's in D. If it's going backwards, it's in R. If it's stationary in your driveway, it's probably in P.

[kevinmurphy]

Really appreciate this review for focusing on the details that make this car unique. No need to spend more than a few moments discussing performance: it's a luxury crossover.

[jimkirk]

Lincoln is redefining the American luxury vehicle by way of understated luxury, personal comfort and giving the ownership experience a sense of occasion. Finally taking the lead on the world stage instead of taking cues and playing catch up with European and Asian brands.

[polksie]

Finally someone doing a review I can relate to. You talk of the car in real world time. Thanks.

[wainewizanthony]

My 1st time watching... I luv how ginger and right to the point this was. Very practical. Ty!

[dustinmorris]

I love it!! You did an amazing job on this. Hands down you became one of my favourite reviewers!

[jonathanhazan]

I am amazed about the knowledge and attention you have to detail. Very impressed

[maurig]

I thoroughly enjoyed watching this reviewer. She kept things light, and real. She wasn’t trying to shove the car down our throats, but explaining both good and bad. She was funny, and seems to be very genuine. Hope to see more of her!!

Ps. Thank you for including Infiniti in your luxury brands comment. Everyone always forgets!

[siseesan]

Another amazing review Elana hope to see you in many more