Imagine stepping into a rental car for a long road trip and finding yourself in a 2022 Lincoln Nautilus. It’s a decent enough vehicle, comfortable and reliable, a familiar face in the world of SUVs. Having previously reviewed the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus, I had a solid grasp of what to expect – a competent but unremarkable experience. Think of it as the automotive equivalent of comfortable sweats; it gets the job done without turning heads. The interior, dominated by hard plastics, and the somewhat dated infotainment system, felt functional but far from inspiring. The engine performed adequately, but lacked any real excitement. In short, the rental Nautilus was simply… there.
It reliably completed its task of getting me home. However, upon returning, a stark contrast awaited: the 2024 Lincoln Nautilus Black Label, my press fleet vehicle for the week. Car manufacturers typically showcase their best foot forward with press vehicles, opting for top-tier trims loaded with features. Therefore, the transition from a basic Nautilus rental to a high-end Black Label version hinted at an upgrade, but I initially underestimated the magnitude of the change.
Alt text: 2024 Lincoln Nautilus Reserve Hybrid in Palm Springs showcasing its elegant design.
I couldn’t have been more wrong. The 2024 Lincoln Nautilus represents the dawn of a new generation, and it’s far more than just a refresh; it’s a complete metamorphosis. This isn’t just an updated model; it’s a revelation. The 2024 Nautilus is akin to witnessing a familiar person undergo a stunning transformation, stepping out in designer attire and impeccable styling. It transcends the ordinary, emerging as a head-turning presence ready for the spotlight.
A Design Revolution: Inside and Out
Lincoln has masterfully reimagined the 2024 Nautilus, crafting a vehicle that commands attention. The exterior boasts a striking grille that confidently declares its arrival, while the interior is nothing short of breathtaking. Stepping inside is like entering a premium lounge, an environment so refined it could rival even Bentley in its opulence. The materials are exceptionally rich, the seats offer armchair-like comfort, and the technology is at the forefront of automotive innovation.
Alt text: Interior of the 2024 Lincoln Nautilus Black Label featuring the expansive 48-inch screen and luxurious seating.
The infotainment system in the 2024 Nautilus is a quantum leap forward. The outdated system of the previous generation has been replaced by a sprawling 48-inch screen that dominates the dashboard, housing all technological functions in a seamless display. This panoramic screen embodies modernity, so advanced it feels as though the car anticipates your needs. The seats are more than just places to sit; they are meticulously crafted thrones. Offering exceptional comfort and support, they render the 2021 Nautilus seats, by comparison, feeling rudimentary. Being the Black Label trim, the front seats included a massage function that felt genuinely therapeutic, unlike the often-underwhelming massage features in other vehicles. It was akin to having a personal masseuse discreetly traveling with me.
Driving Dynamics: From Functional to Exhilarating
While the 2021 Nautilus performed its basic function, the 2024 model feels meticulously engineered for drivers who appreciate a refined experience. The engine is notably responsive, and the ride quality is exceptionally smooth, striking a perfect balance with just enough road feedback to maintain driver engagement. Driving the 2024 Lincoln Nautilus is an event in itself. Its presence is undeniable; it’s not just seen as another SUV, but as a statement of style, luxury, and meticulous craftsmanship that naturally draws admiration.
This isn’t merely transportation; it’s an immersive experience. The 2024 Nautilus encourages taking the scenic route, simply for the pleasure of the drive. The degree of transformation is truly astounding. It’s like transitioning from monochrome to vibrant color. The 2024 Nautilus isn’t just an incremental improvement; it’s a comprehensive reinvention. It’s as if Lincoln took the foundational strengths of the Nautilus and amplified them to an entirely new level.
This comparison transcends simply contrasting old versus new, or rental versus luxury trim. It’s a powerful illustration of Lincoln’s progress and vision. The 2024 Nautilus doesn’t just make the 2021 model seem dated; it relegates it to a bygone era. Having experienced both, the choice is unequivocal. While the 2021 version might suffice for basic transportation, the 2024 Nautilus elevates the question: why would anyone settle for anything less? The Lincoln Nautilus Reviews overwhelmingly point to a vehicle that has not just been updated, but reborn.
The 2024 Lincoln Nautilus Black Label
MSRP: $74,250
MSRP (as tested): $80,845
Engine: 2.0 liter inline 4
Horsepower: 250 hp @ 5,500 rpm
Torque: 280 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm
Fuel Mileage (EPA): 21 city, 29 highway, 24 combined
Fuel Mileage as tested (mixed conditions): 26 mpg
Curb Weight: 4,349 lbs.
Exterior Dimensions
Length: 193.2 in.
Overall width with mirrors: 85.4 in.
Height: 68.2 in.
Wheelbase: 114.2 in.
Interior Dimensions
Front head room: 39.1 in.
Front leg room: 43.5 in.
Front shoulder room: 58.9 in.
Front hip room: 56.8 in.
Rear head room: 38.4 in.
Rear leg room: 43.1 in.
Rear shoulder room: 58.0 in.
Rear hip room: 56.3 in.
Cargo capacity, all seats in place: 35.2 cu.ft.
Maximum cargo capacity: 68.8 cu.ft.
Warranty
Basic: 4 yr./ 50,000 mi.
Drivetrain: 6 yr./ 70,000 mi.
Rust: 5 yr./ unlimited mi.
Roadside assistance: Unlimited yr./ unlimited mi.
Free maintenance: 4 yr./ 50,000 mi.
