2022 Lincoln Nautilus vs 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid presented a blend of sharp edges and a streamlined profile, fitting snugly between the Lexus UX and RX models. Its design, while not traditionally SUV-like, maintained a familiar Lexus aesthetic. Despite its sporty F Sport Black Line enhancements, including a larger mesh grille and dark-finish wheels, the NX's styling had not evolved significantly over the years. Inside, the NX's radical design from its debut had become more commonplace, with a stepped center console and a lack of traditional luxury materials like wood trim. The F Sport package added sporty touches, but the overall material quality felt more mainstream than luxury.

In contrast, the 2022 Lincoln Nautilus, especially in the Black Label trim, exuded elegance with its 21-inch machined-finish wheels and detailed styling. The Black Label models offered unique interior themes like Chalet and Flight, featuring premium leather and a simulated suede headliner. The Nautilus provided a luxurious experience with heated and ventilated front seats, ambient lighting, and high-quality materials throughout. However, some elements, like the center console design, appeared less refined. Despite this, the Nautilus delivered a decadent and inviting atmosphere.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, producing a total of 194 horsepower. It came standard with all-wheel drive, but its performance was more focused on efficiency than excitement. The NX Hybrid accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 9.1 seconds, with a top speed of 112 mph. The sport-tuned suspension in the Black Line package improved handling, but the steering felt numb, and the drivetrain struggled with seamless power delivery. Drive modes like Normal, Eco, and Sport offered minimal impact on the driving experience.

The 2022 Lincoln Nautilus offered a more robust performance with its standard turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing 250 horsepower. The Black Label trim featured a twin-turbocharged 2.7-liter V6 engine with 335 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque, requiring all-wheel drive. The Nautilus provided Comfort, Normal, and Sport driving modes, adjusting powertrain behavior and suspension. On a road trip, the Nautilus excelled in comfort and fuel efficiency, averaging 25 mpg over 871.1 miles. The twin-turbo V6 delivered impressive performance, though the steering lacked engagement.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid had limited interior space, with the least front headroom in its segment and cramped rear seats. Front-seat legroom was generous, but rear legroom was lacking. The sloping roofline and thick rear pillars hindered visibility, though exterior mirrors helped compensate. Cargo space was limited, with 16.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 53.7 cubic feet with them folded. The NX offered a power-folding second row and power liftgate, but these were not standard.

The 2022 Lincoln Nautilus provided a luxurious interior with heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. The optional 22-way power front seats offered exceptional comfort. Rear seating was heated, but legroom was tight for a midsize SUV. Storage space was adequate, though some areas were hard to access. The Nautilus offered 37.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 68.8 cubic feet with them folded. A hands-free power liftgate added convenience.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid's infotainment system was a weak point, featuring an 8-inch display with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The lack of a touchscreen and reliance on a touchpad made it difficult to use while driving. The graphics felt outdated, and the base audio system was underwhelming. Higher trims offered a 14-speaker Mark Levinson system.

The 2022 Lincoln Nautilus boasted a 13.2-inch touchscreen with Sync 4 software, offering over-the-air updates, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The Black Label trim included connected navigation, wireless charging, and a 19-speaker Revel audio system. The user interface was intuitive, and the Revel speakers delivered excellent sound quality. The Phone as a Key feature added convenience.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid earned a “Top Safety Pick+” from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It came with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and more. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard, but a 360-degree camera system was missing.

The 2022 Lincoln Nautilus featured Lincoln Co-Pilot360 1.0, with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. The Black Label added Co-Pilot360 1.0 Plus, with adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assistance, and a surround-view camera. The NHTSA gave it a five-star overall rating, though the IIHS had not assessed it.