What Ford is comparable to Lincoln Nautilus?
The Ford Edge is the closest Ford counterpart to the Lincoln Nautilus.
The Lincoln Nautilus is a two‑row, midsize luxury SUV, priced and equipped to emphasize premium materials, quiet ride, and high-end features. Ford’s traditional two‑row rival in the same size class has long been the Edge, though Ford’s current lineup has shifted away from that exact luxury pairing in some markets. When Edge isn’t available, the Explorer and Escape represent the next closest Ford alternatives in size and capability.
Direct Ford counterpart and availability
The pairing between Lincoln Nautilus and Ford Edge rests on size, chassis, and powertrain overlap, with the Edge acting as the industry-standard non-luxury fallback in the same segment. The following points outline how they line up behind the scenes:
- Two-row, midsize crossover footprint that aligns with the Nautilus's cabin and cargo proportions
- Turbocharged engine options common to both models, with horsepower varying by trim
- All-wheel drive availability on common trims to match the Nautilus’s versatility
- Shared emphasis on tech and driver-assistance features at higher trims
In practical terms, buyers often compare Lincoln’s Nautilus Reserve or Black Label trims with Edge Titanium or similar upper trims, though Lincoln’s emphasis on luxury upgrades sets a different cabin experience.
How they differ in luxury and practicality
While size and powertrains overlap, the Nautilus and Edge diverge in refinement, materials, and standard features. The key contrasts include:
- Interior quality and ambiance: Lincoln prioritizes premium materials, quieter acoustics, and sculpted design, while the Edge emphasizes value and tech flexibility
- Brand positioning: Lincoln targets luxury buyers with exclusive trims and dealership experience; Ford targets a broader market with more aggressive pricing and feature packages
- Ride and noise levels: Nautilus tends to offer a more serene cabin, whereas Edge focuses on a balanced ride with strong handling
- Trim availability and market changes: Ford has reduced emphasis on two‑row luxury crossovers in some regions, impacting direct availability
For buyers who want the closest Ford alternative to a Nautilus in today’s lineup, Edge remains the reference point where it’s offered. If Edge isn’t available, the Explorer provides a larger, three‑row option with premium trims, and the Escape offers a smaller, more affordable alternative with up-to-date tech.
Current Ford alternatives in practice
When considering a near‑size Ford option to the Nautilus, these models come up most often, depending on market availability and model year:
- Ford Edge — the closest two‑row midsize Ford model, historically aligned with Nautilus in size and function
- Ford Explorer — a larger, three‑row crossover with upscale trims that can approximate Nautilus features in a family‑oriented package
- Ford Escape — a compact option with modern tech and efficient powertrains, offering a more compact footprint
In regions or years where the Edge is discontinued, Explorer generally becomes the practical two‑row alternative in terms of space and technology, while Escape serves as a more affordable entry point.
Summary
Summary: The Ford Edge is traditionally considered the closest Ford counterpart to the Lincoln Nautilus, thanks to similar size, engine options, and all‑wheel‑drive availability. As Ford evolves its lineup away from some two‑row luxury crossovers, Explorer and Escape serve as practical alternatives, with Explorer offering more space and upscale features when a Nautilus‑level luxury experience is desired within the Ford brand.
What vehicle compares to a Lincoln Nautilus?
Competitors to the Lincoln Nautilus include the Lexus RX, Cadillac XT5, Volvo XC60, and Audi Q5. Other rivals are the BMW X5, Genesis GV70, and Lincoln's own Aviator and Corsair. The Nautilus is often compared favorably for its interior space, standard technology, and available features.
You can watch this video to see a comparison between the 2024 Lincoln Nautilus and 2024 Lexus RX: 43sKelley Blue BookYouTube · Apr 19, 2024
Primary competitors
- Lexus RX: A major competitor that is often compared directly to the Nautilus.
- Cadillac XT5: A close rival, with comparisons often highlighting the Nautilus's advantages in cargo space and technology.
- Volvo XC60: Another key competitor, with comparisons often focusing on the Nautilus's larger cargo capacity and legroom.
- Audi Q5: A competitor that is often measured against the Nautilus for features and space.
Other competitors
- BMW X5: A higher-priced competitor, which the Nautilus can compete with when optioned similarly, according to some sources.
- Genesis GV70: Another luxury SUV in the same class that is compared to the Nautilus.
- Lincoln Aviator: A larger, three-row SUV from the same brand.
- Lincoln Corsair: A smaller SUV from the same brand.
This video compares the 2025 Lincoln Nautilus with the 2025 Lexus TX: 59sAutoPediaYouTube · Dec 9, 2024
Which is better, Lincoln or Ford?
Whether Lincoln is "better" than Ford depends on your priorities, as Lincoln prioritizes luxury, and Ford focuses on a wider range of capabilities and price points. Lincoln offers more premium features, horsepower, and longer warranties, while Ford vehicles generally have lower prices, better fuel efficiency, and higher towing capacities. For a more luxurious experience with advanced features, Lincoln is the better choice; for ruggedness, lower cost, and higher towing ability, Ford is often the better option.
| Feature | Lincoln | Ford |
|---|---|---|
| Luxury & Performance | Focuses on luxury with premium materials, quieter rides, and higher standard horsepower. | Offers a wider range of capabilities and performance options, including ruggedness and higher towing capacity. |
| Price & Value | Generally more expensive, with a higher starting price. | Generally more affordable with lower new and used vehicle starting prices. |
| Fuel Efficiency | Often has lower fuel efficiency. | Often offers better fuel efficiency. |
| Towing Capacity | Lower towing capacity compared to comparable Ford models. | Higher towing capacity on comparable models. |
| Warranty | Longer powertrain and basic warranties. | Shorter powertrain and basic warranties. |
| Reliability | Considered less reliable than Ford on a car-to-car basis, possibly due to higher complexity. | Has higher reliability ratings, likely due to a higher volume of sales and simpler designs. |
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What is the Ford version of Lincoln Nautilus?
Ford Edge
See the Difference for Yourself
Both the Lincoln Nautilus and the Ford Edge come with engines that feature identical specs!
Is Ford discontinuing the Lincoln Nautilus?
No, the Lincoln Nautilus is not being discontinued; rather, it was fully redesigned for the 2024 model year and is still available for purchase. While there were earlier rumors and reports of its discontinuation (along with the Ford Edge) due to the plant's repurposing for electric vehicles, those plans changed, and Ford released a completely new generation of the Nautilus, which is built in China.
- Previous rumors: There were earlier reports and rumors suggesting the Nautilus and Ford Edge would be discontinued around 2023 or 2024 because the Oakville, Canada plant where they were built was being retooled for electric vehicles.
- New generation: Instead of being discontinued, the Nautilus was redesigned with a new platform and interior for the 2024 model year.
- Current production: All models sold in North America are currently imported from China, and Ford has indicated no plans to change this despite the potential impact of tariffs.
- Future plans: Automotive News reports that Lincoln is planning a refreshed model for 2027, suggesting the nameplate will continue to be sold.
