22 MPG combined. That’s the EPA figure for the 2019 Lincoln Nautilus with its 2.7-liter turbocharged V6 and front-wheel drive. It’s a number that likely won’t surprise anyone considering this luxury crossover. It’s not stellar, and it’s not terrible, but more like the accepted cost of doing business when you want a comfortable, stylish, and reasonably powerful vehicle. It’s a compromise accepted by suburban dwellers and empty-nesters who value a smooth ride and a touch of American luxury over outright efficiency.

City and highway performance

The Nautilus’s EPA ratings break down to 20 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the demands placed on the engine during stop-and-go driving, where the turbocharger is constantly spooling up and down, impacting efficiency. The highway number, on the other hand, demonstrates how well the Nautilus can cruise when the engine settles into a more consistent speed. The eight-speed automatic transmission certainly helps here, keeping the engine at lower RPMs for sustained periods on the open road. Owners who frequently find themselves on long highway journeys will likely see figures closer to that 27 MPG mark.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2019 Lincoln Nautilus FWD 2.7L is precisely $2,000. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the EPA’s assumed fuel price, which reflects the national average. Of course, actual fuel costs will vary depending on individual driving habits, local fuel prices, and the specific mix of city versus highway driving. Aggressive acceleration, excessive idling, and consistently high speeds can all significantly increase this annual cost.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates are a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy often deviates. Nautilus owners report numbers that are often slightly below the official EPA figures, particularly in areas with heavy traffic congestion. However, careful drivers who prioritize smooth acceleration and consistent speeds can often meet or even slightly exceed the EPA’s highway figure. The Nautilus isn’t a fuel sipper by any means, but responsible driving will yield the most economical result from its turbocharged V6 engine.

How it compares

In the realm of luxury crossovers, the Nautilus’s fuel economy places it squarely in the middle of the pack. The Acura RDX, a popular alternative, achieves 22 MPG combined in its FWD configuration, mirroring the Nautilus. However, some competitors offer slightly better mileage. The Lexus RX 350h hybrid variant prioritizes fuel efficiency with a combined rating of 31 MPG, but at the expense of outright power. On the other hand, opting for the all-wheel-drive version of the Nautilus notably reduces its fuel economy, making the front-wheel-drive model the better choice for those prioritizing MPG. If you are interested in other options, you can see all Lincoln fuel economy data on this site. For specific comparisons across models, you can look at NAUTILUS MPG across all years to see fuel economy specifications.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The Nautilus’s turbocharged engine delivers ample power when you demand it, but stomping on the accelerator frequently will dramatically reduce fuel economy. Gentle acceleration allows the turbo to spool up more gradually, minimizing fuel consumption. Focus on maintaining a steady speed and anticipating traffic to avoid unnecessary braking.

Ensure proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. Doing so will improve both fuel economy and tire life.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine idle for extended periods, such as at stoplights or while waiting in parking lots, wastes fuel. If you anticipate being stationary for more than a minute or two, consider turning off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, making this a worthwhile effort.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a constant speed, which can improve fuel economy on long highway stretches. Avoid sudden acceleration or deceleration while using cruise control to further maximize efficiency.

Keep up with scheduled maintenance. A well-maintained engine operates more efficiently. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, including regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug inspections. Addressing minor issues promptly can prevent them from escalating into larger problems that negatively impact fuel economy.