2024 Lincoln Nautilus vs 2023 Honda Pilot

The 2023 Honda Pilot underwent a complete redesign, presenting a more rugged and substantial appearance. Its upright grille and boxier styling not only made it look larger but also increased its dimensions, being 3.4 inches longer, up to 1.5 inches wider, and 0.8 inches taller than its predecessor. These changes complemented the all-terrain-capable TrailSport model, which gained legitimate off-road parts like a one-inch taller ride height, unique 18-inch wheels, chunky all-terrain tires, and underbody skid plates. The interior took a more conventional styling route, remaining attractive, functional, and versatile, with materials quality meeting class expectations. Overall, the 2023 Honda Pilot emphasized function over form, offering a tidy and utilitarian aesthetic.

The 2024 Lincoln Nautilus debuted with a sophisticated and streamlined exterior, signaling a new direction in Lincoln design. Its grille, reminiscent of Mercedes Benz's bifurcated design, featured LED lighting extending through it, illuminating the Lincoln star logo. The rear mirrored this horizontal aesthetic with a full-width animated LED light bar and dual exhaust ports. The interior was the highlight, with a full-width screen as its crown jewel. The materials were of excellent quality, featuring ambient lighting, open-pore wood, and fine leather. The Jet Appearance Package offered additional customization with two-tone paint and black exterior trim. The Nautilus's design was both elegant and functional, providing a luxurious experience.

The 2023 Honda Pilot was powered by a new 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available on all models and standard on the Elite and TrailSport trims. The Pilot offered quick initial acceleration and adequate power, with a soft brake pedal suitable for a family SUV. It cornered well for a three-row SUV, prioritizing comfort over sporty driving. The TrailSport model increased ground clearance by an inch and featured all-terrain tires, adding a subtle vibration on pavement but enhancing off-road capabilities. The Pilot balanced on-road comfort with moderate off-road capabilities, making it a versatile family SUV.

The 2024 Lincoln Nautilus came standard with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivering 250 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. For an additional $1,500, a hybrid setup offered 310 horsepower, 295 lb-ft of torque, and an EPA estimated 30 mpg in combined driving, with a range of over 600 miles. All Nautilus models featured all-wheel drive and five drive modes, with adaptive suspension available for enhanced performance. The hybrid's continuously variable transmission (CVT) avoided typical drawbacks, providing a smooth driving experience. While not a driver's car, the Nautilus offered a balance of performance and comfort, with the hybrid option enhancing fuel efficiency.

The 2023 Honda Pilot's interior was more conventional compared to other new Honda vehicles, offering a handy dash shelf for the front passenger. The entry-level trims featured a seven-inch infotainment touchscreen, while higher trims upgraded to a nine-inch display. The Elite trim's touchscreen was adequate but seemed small for the available space. Primary controls were logically placed, with a large rubberized shelf for phones and a wireless charging pad. The Pilot featured clever storage solutions, including a stowable second-row center seat and ample space in the second row for adults. Cargo capacity was impressive, with up to 114.3 cubic feet available, surpassing competitors like the Kia Telluride.

The 2024 Lincoln Nautilus offered power-adjustable, heated, and cooled front seats across all trims, with the Black Label model featuring 24-way Perfect Position front seats with massage and extended heating functions. The rear seats provided 43 inches of legroom, accommodating taller passengers comfortably. The Lincoln Rejuvenate feature combined massage, lighting, and screen images to create different moods, enhancing relaxation. Cargo space was generous, with 36 cubic feet behind the second row and 71 cubic feet with seats folded down in the Premiere trim. The Nautilus was available only with seating for five, prioritizing cargo space over additional seating.

The 2023 Honda Pilot's EX-L trim and above offered a larger infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless phone charger, and USB ports in every row. Higher trims included a multi-view camera system, head-up display, and a fully digital instrument panel. The infotainment system was functional, with quick responses and a logical layout. Features like Honda's CabinTalk and the multi-view TrailWatch camera system enhanced convenience and safety, especially for off-roading.

The 2024 Lincoln Nautilus featured a massive 48-inch curved display, with a digital dash for the driver and customizable sections for various information. An 11.1-inch touchscreen handled basic infotainment duties, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. While some controls were distracting, the inclusion of Google maps, Alexa Built-in, and over-the-air updates kept the system current. Wireless charging and USB ports throughout the cabin added convenience.

The 2023 Honda Pilot had not yet been rated by the NHTSA, but Honda expected top scores. It received a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. Standard Honda Sensing safety features included forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and more. Higher trims added low-speed automatic braking and parking sensors. The Pilot's safety features functioned well, with no false alarms experienced during testing.

The 2024 Lincoln Nautilus included the Lincoln CoPilot 360 suite of ADAS features, such as lane-keeping assist, park assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Blue Cruise 1.2 technology offered hands-free driving on pre-mapped highways, with a trial available for lower trims and standard on the Black Label. The 2023 Nautilus received high safety ratings from the NHTSA, and the 2024 model was expected to perform similarly. The IIHS rated the Nautilus "Good" in crashworthiness.