2024 Lincoln Nautilus vs 2024 Ford Bronco

The 2024 Lincoln Nautilus presented a sophisticated and streamlined exterior, available in Premiere, Reserve, or Black Label trims. Its design featured a new grille with LED lighting extending through it, illuminating the Lincoln star logo, creating a stunning visual effect. The rear mirrored this horizontal aesthetic with a full-width animated LED light bar and dual exhaust ports. The interior was equally impressive, highlighted by a full-width screen that served as the centerpiece. High-quality materials, ambient lighting, and textures like open-pore wood and fine leather adorned the cabin, although the piano key shifter style was a traditional Lincoln element that some might not favor. An optional Jet Appearance Package added two-tone paint, black exterior trim, and unique interior features for an additional cost.

In contrast, the 2024 Ford Bronco embraced a retro design reminiscent of the 1960s, particularly successful in the two-door model. The Sasquatch Package, a notable upgrade, enhanced its rugged appearance with a suspension lift and 35-inch mud-terrain tires. The Bronco offered nine versions, including the Raptor performance model, with prices ranging from $41,525 to $91,930. The Big Bend trim, tested in a four-door configuration, featured marine-grade upholstery, which, while durable, did not breathe well. The Bronco's interior was practical, with an 8-inch digital display and a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Despite some challenges with technology, the Bronco provided a unique driving experience, especially off-road, with features like Trail Control and Trail Turn Assist.

The 2024 Lincoln Nautilus came standard with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This setup delivered smooth power application and unobtrusive shifts. For an additional $1,500, a hybrid option was available, offering 310 horsepower, 295 lb-ft of torque, and an EPA-estimated 30 mpg in combined driving. The hybrid also boasted a range of over 600 miles. All Nautilus models featured all-wheel drive and five drive modes, with an adaptive suspension available for enhanced performance. The hybrid's CVT was well-tuned, avoiding common drawbacks like droning.

The 2024 Ford Bronco Big Bend came with a standard turbocharged 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, delivering 300 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. It offered a seven-speed manual or a 10-speed automatic transmission, with a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. An optional 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine provided 330 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, while the Raptor model boasted a 3.0-liter V6 with 418 horsepower and 440 lb-ft of torque. The Bronco featured a part-time 4WD system, with an advanced system available. Off-road capabilities were enhanced by technologies like Trail Control and Trail Turn Assist. However, fuel efficiency was a concern, with the Big Bend Sasquatch averaging 16.9 mpg during testing.

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 seats with massage and extended heating functions. Rear passengers enjoyed 43 inches of legroom, surpassing competitors like the BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GLE. The Lincoln Rejuvenate feature combined massage, lighting, and screen images for relaxation. Cargo space was ample, with 36 cubic feet behind the second row and 71 cubic feet with seats folded in the Premiere trim. The Nautilus accommodated five passengers, prioritizing cargo space over additional seating.

The 2024 Ford Bronco, particularly in the four-door configuration, provided ample interior space, accommodating four adults comfortably. The marine-grade vinyl upholstery, while durable, trapped moisture, making cloth seats in the Heritage Edition a preferable option. The Bronco's two-door models featured a standard hardtop with removable panels, while the four-door offered a fabric soft top with an optional hardtop. Cargo space varied, with the two-door offering 22.4 cubic feet and 53.3 cubic feet with seats folded, while the four-door provided up to 83 cubic feet with the soft top.

The 2024 Lincoln Nautilus featured a striking 48-inch curved display, customizable for various information. An 11.1-inch touchscreen handled basic infotainment tasks, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. While some controls were distracting, the inclusion of Google Maps and Alexa Built-in added convenience. Over-the-air updates ensured the system remained current, and wireless charging was standard.

The 2024 Ford Bronco came with a 12-inch touchscreen Sync 4 infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, FordPass Connect, and SiriusXM 360L. However, connectivity issues with Apple CarPlay and inconsistent voice recognition were noted. The Bronco Trail App provided access to trail maps, enhancing off-road adventures. The 8-inch digital instrumentation panel required some acclimation, but overall, the technology package was functional.

The 2024 Lincoln Nautilus included the Lincoln CoPilot 360 suite of ADAS features, such as lane-keeping assist, park assist, and adaptive cruise control. Blue Cruise 1.2 technology offered hands-free driving on pre-mapped highways, with a trial available for lower trims. The 2023 Nautilus received high safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, though the 2024 model had not yet been rated.

The 2024 Ford Bronco Big Bend featured standard safety equipment like forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking. The Mid Package added Ford Co-Pilot360 technologies, enhancing safety and maneuverability. The Bronco received favorable crash test ratings from the IIHS, except for headlight performance, while NHTSA ratings were incomplete.