The Lincoln Nautilus returns for 2026 with subtle yet highly relevant updates! Unlike the Ford Edge, with which it shares its platform, the Nautilus continues its upward climb in 2026, offering an elegant silhouette, a lavish interior, and plenty of enhancements.
Larger than the Corsair yet more compact than the Aviator, the Lincoln Nautilus strikes the perfect balance, focusing on comfort, driving pleasure, and overall experience. Unlike other models in the brand's lineup, this is a vehicle people choose not out of necessity but out of desire – and that's what makes it so appealing.
Lineup and Pricing
For 2026, the Lincoln Nautilus lineup consists of two versions, starting with the Premier model. This one carries a starting price of $63,245. At this price, it's far from an entry-level model, and one might wonder why anyone would pay extra for a more upscale version. Well, to give you an idea, the American manufacturer's SUV offers an incredible digital experience, along with a true arsenal of technologies, both for entertainment and comfort. The finish is refined, and the color combinations have clearly been carefully chosen.
The Ultra version starts at $73,045, nearly $10,000 more than the Premier trim. The first question you might ask is whether it's worth the extra cost, and the answer is most definitely yes. First, the Ultra trim delivers significantly higher interior quality and more advanced driver-assistance technologies. It also provides access to more appealing exterior options, particularly when it comes to wheel designs.
Category and Competition
Let's be honest – the Lincoln plays in a field filled with heavyweight names that certainly cast a shadow. At the same time, the American automaker's SUV has nothing to envy from the competition – in fact, I'd say the opposite. You see, the Nautilus' success isn't based solely on reputation but rather on the overall experience it delivers. In other words, it's a model that truly gives you your money's worth – something that can't be said for all of its rivals.
Rivals: Acura MDX, Audi Q7, Audi Q8, BMW X5, BMW X6, Genesis GV80, Infiniti QX60, JLR Discovery, Lexus GX, Lexus RX, Lincoln Aviator, Mercedes-Benz GLE, Porsche Cayenne, Volvo XC90.
Design and Technology
It's fair to say Lincoln has come a long way in terms of design. There was a time when the Nautilus was practically a rebadged Ford Edge with different logos and beige or brown leather seats. Needless to say, those days are long gone, and the model now boasts its own identity – inside and out.
Speaking of the cabin, it's worth mentioning that the Nautilus features one of the most stunning dashboards on the market.
Performance
Under the hood, Lincoln's SUV offers two powertrain options, starting with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine producing 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. This engine is a tried-and-true option for both Ford and Lincoln, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive.
There's also a hybrid version, combining a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with an electric motor for a total output of 310 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. What's most impressive, however, is its fuel economy: an average of 7.9 L/100 km in the city and 7.6 L/100 km on the highway.
Weak Points
Strong Points
Signature Element
Style and elegance are undeniably what set the Lincoln Nautilus apart.
Final Word
The 2026 Lincoln Nautilus may not be the most popular model in its class, but it is certainly among those that offer the best value for your money.
Jean-Sébastien Poudrier
