Lincoln Nautilus Black Label Review

Sure the Lincoln Nautilus Black Label is built on an older platform it shares with the Ford Edge. And yes, there may not be a hybrid model to help owners “get green.” But it is refined, powerful and most of all, comfortably luxurious. What more could you want in an aspirationally-priced vehicle? The Lincoln Nautilus delivers this and more. Napleton News recently took a turn in the high-end SUV to see what all the commotion was about. Here’s our report.

Premium is included in the new Lincoln Nautilus Black Label.

The new Lincoln Nautilus starts as one of the most affordable premium midsize crossovers on the market today. Adding the features that make it a Black Label model may goose up the price a bit, but after sharpening your pencil, you may conclude that it’s worth it. What makes it worth it? Let’s take a look.

Motivating factors

The base engine offered with the Lincoln Nautilus is a 2.0-liter turbo inline-4 cylinder engine that produces 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. Depending on a buyer’s needs, it is available with front- or optional all-wheel drive powertrains.

The second powertrain choice involves the 2.7-liter twin-turbocharged V6 that makes 355 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. In the case of our Black Label demonstrator, it includes all-wheel drive as standard.

Ford’s 8-speed automatic transmission delivers power to the road with both engines. Regardless of which engine you choose, the Nautilus can tow up to 3,500 pounds.

How does the Lincoln Nautilus Black Label look?

Overall, the Lincoln Nautilus is a good-looking crossover with a bit of presence tossed in for good measure. Start with the by-now familiar Lincoln grille and add a dollop of elegance on the side. Sure, the outside may resemble its Ford Edge cousin, but it’s a more subtle look than that found on some BMW and Lexus crossovers, especially from the front end.

Throwing back to the Lincoln Town Cars of yore, imagine this new Nautilus as a continuation of that vehicle. Sure, the TC was a sedan and this is a crossover, but work with us here. Like the Townie, this Nautilus has a floaty Lincoln signature ride that offers a solid luxury cruiser at every turn.

How about the inside of the Nautilus Black Label?

Several available trim levels separate the Lincoln Nautilus from other vehicles. Start with the basic Nautilus. It includes 18-inch wheels, LED lighting, a power liftgate, keyless entry, a 12.3-inch gauge display and simulated leather upholstery.

Moving up to the Nautilus Reserve trim level allows buyers access to the available Luxury package. It brings a hands-free power liftgate and a 13-speaker Revel stereo system. Adaptive suspension is next, as is a 13.2-inch touchscreen that includes Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Also on tap is the ability to use a smartphone for remote locking access to your Nautilus.

Finally, the Black Label is at the top of the range and is our test vehicle. Standard features include leather seating, adaptive suspension, Black Label Membership, Revel 19-speaker audio system and 21-inch alloy wheels. Options include the ultra comfort 22-way seating with active motion massage, built-in navigation, satellite radio and Sync 4. Lincoln Co-Pilot360, the Nautilus Tech Package, 360-degree camera, and Black Label Member Privileges. These include premium maintenance for four years/50,000 miles with anytime carwashes. Lincoln will arrange to pick up your vehicle and deliver a loaner in its place. Included with all is a reward points system redeemable for maintenance, premium services and exclusive offers.

Behind the wheel of the Nautilus

Sitting behind the steering wheel of the Lincoln Nautilus Black Label makes one thing clear: This is a crossover that coddles you in comfort. Whether you are using the ventilated, heated or massaging front seats, you’ll be relaxed and comfortable throughout your journey.

Power from the 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 is adequate. But we like the power we got from the 2.7-liter twin-turbocharged V6 better. Step on the gas and it answers back with authority, which is naturally what you would expect from a premium luxury vehicle. On the other hand, don’t expect this midsize SUV to have the chops to take you off-road, at least very far. It’s just not that kind of girl.

Instead, you get a luxury SUV that conveys its charges in comfort, regardless of how near or far the destination is. Add in the exclusive features included with the Black Label trim level, and it becomes easy to see why the Lincoln line of crossovers has become so popular.

	2022 Lincoln Nautilus Black Label AWD
Popular Powertrains
Engine Type	2.7-Liter twin turbocharged V6
Horsepower	335 horsepower @ 5,500 rpm
Torque	380 LB-FT @ 3,250 rpm
Transmission	8-speed automatic
Fuel Economy	21 mpg (19 city/25 hwy)
Suspension (F/R)	McPherson Strut/Multilink
Turning Circle	38.6 ft.
Also Available	Base, Reserve, FWD
Specs
Warranty	4 years/50,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty	6 years/70,000 miles
NHTSA Safety Rating	5-star
Max Seating Capacity	5
Wheelbase	112.2 inches
Overall Length	190.0 inches
Width	86.1 inches
Height	66.2 inches
Cargo Capacity	37.2 cubic ft./68.8 cubic ft.
Headroom, Front	37.8 inches
Headroom, Rear	38.6 inches
Legroom, Front	42.8 inches
Legroom, Rear	39.6 inches
Shoulder, Front	58.9 inches
Shoulder, Rear	59.0 inches