2024 Lincoln Nautilus vs 2024 BMW X5

The 2024 BMW X5, last redesigned in 2019, maintained a timeless appeal, although the M Sport treatment was not universally appreciated, giving it a station wagon-like appearance. The test vehicle featured optional 21-inch "741M" wheels with staggered-width summer tires, which were considered a worthwhile upgrade despite the potential cost of tire replacement. The X5 offered a range of powertrains, including a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, a turbo-six PHEV powertrain, and a turbocharged V8 engine, with the high-performance X5 M Competition variant. The xDrive50e M Sport specification test vehicle came with Brooklyn Grey paint, optional wheels, and all available equipment packages, priced at $88,075, including destination charges. The 2024 model received a light styling refresh, aligning it with other BMW models, and introduced the BMW Curved Display instrumentation and infotainment screen, modernizing the interior while retaining high-quality materials and construction.

The 2024 Lincoln Nautilus debuted with a sophisticated and streamlined exterior design, featuring a new grille reminiscent of Mercedes-Benz, with LED lighting extending through the grille to illuminate the Lincoln star logo. The rear design included a full-width animated LED light bar and dual exhaust ports, while the profile incorporated high door handles into the beltline. The interior was highlighted by a full-width screen, complemented by high-quality materials like open-pore wood and fine leather, ambient lighting, and polished metal accents. The piano key shifter style, a Lincoln tradition, was not favored by all. The Jet Appearance Package, available for an additional $3,000, offered two-tone paint, black exterior trim, and unique interior elements, enhancing the vehicle's aesthetic appeal.

The 2024 BMW X5 featured new mild-hybrid six-cylinder and V8 engines, with the xDrive50e PHEV receiving significant upgrades in electric range and power output. The PHEV's electric motor, integrated into the eight-speed automatic transmission, and a more energy-dense lithium-ion battery pack with a 19.2 kWh capacity, allowed for 38 miles of electric-only driving. The xDrive50e produced 483 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, accelerating to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. The PHEV was praised for its driving dynamics, with adaptive damping air suspension masking its weight and providing excellent ride quality. The vehicle excelled in various driving conditions, achieving an average fuel economy of 38.8 mpg during evaluation. The PHEV's electric motor produced 194 hp and 331 lb-ft of torque, requiring a light foot on the accelerator to maintain electric mode. The X5's handling, acceleration, and braking performance were commendable, making it a preferred choice for those seeking a balance of performance and efficiency.

The 2024 Lincoln Nautilus came standard with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The hybrid setup, available for an additional $1,500, offered 310 horsepower, 295 lb-ft of torque, and an EPA-estimated 30 mpg in combined driving. The hybrid's range exceeded 600 miles, outperforming the gas-only engine's 24 mpg combined. The Nautilus featured all-wheel drive and five drive modes, with the adaptive suspension enhancing the driving experience. 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 satisfying driving experience with its hybrid powertrain, making it a suitable choice for those prioritizing fuel efficiency and comfort.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e offered a spacious interior with seating for five and a cargo area of 33.1 cubic feet, expandable to 71.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The split liftgate design provided a convenient seating area but required stretching to access deep cargo. The test vehicle featured BMW's Sensafin artificial leather upholstery, which was indistinguishable from genuine leather. The Climate Comfort Package added 20-way power-adjustable multi-contour front seats with heating and ventilation, four-zone automatic climate control, and heated rear seats. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed comfort and a panoramic sunroof, while the absence of a third-row seat limited seating capacity to five.

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, surpassing competitors like the BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GLE. The Lincoln Rejuvenate feature combined massage, lighting, and screen images to create different moods, enhancing relaxation. The Nautilus offered 36 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expandable to 71 cubic feet in the Premiere trim, with slightly reduced space in higher trims. The vehicle was limited to five-passenger seating, prioritizing cargo space over a third-row option.

The 2024 BMW X5 featured a BMW Curved Display combining a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel with a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, running BMW Operating System 8.5. The system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, SiriusXM 360L satellite radio, connected services, and over-the-air software updates. The Intelligent Personal Assistant, however, struggled with voice recognition, leading to inaccurate navigation results. The available head-up display effectively conveyed data, and the Harman Kardon sound system provided excellent audio quality. Despite the challenges with voice recognition, the X5's technology suite offered a comprehensive and modern experience.

The 2024 Lincoln Nautilus boasted a 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. HVAC controls were accessible via permanent icons, though vent adjustments required navigating menus. Unlabelled steering wheel controls added a learning curve, but the inclusion of Google Maps and Alexa Built-in enhanced functionality. Gaming, web browsing, and over-the-air updates were available, with wireless charging and USB ports throughout the cabin, providing a well-rounded technological experience.

The 2024 BMW X5 introduced the Highway Assistant hands-free driving assistance system, requiring deliberate activation through the infotainment screen and steering wheel controls. The system performed well in dense and light traffic but exhibited errant braking in heavy traffic. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance effectively navigated curves, though obstacles like parked trucks triggered unnecessary braking. The X5's driver aids operated subtly, encouraging usage. The IIHS rated the X5 highly, though lower headlight ratings prevented an award, while the NHTSA gave it a four-star overall crash-test rating.

The 2024 Lincoln Nautilus included the Lincoln CoPilot 360 suite of ADAS features, with lane-keeping assist, park assist, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and emergency braking. The Blue Cruise 1.2 technology offered hands-free driving on pre-mapped highways, with automatic lane-change assist and In-Lane Repositioning. The 2023 Nautilus received high safety ratings from the NHTSA, and the 2024 model earned a "Good" rating from the IIHS in crashworthiness, though other ratings were pending.