The 2021 Lincoln Nautilus AWD with the 2.7L turbocharged V6 gets 21 MPG combined, according to owners. This isn’t a groundbreaking number in the mid-size SUV market, but it’s a figure that Nautilus buyers have likely already factored into their ownership experience. They’re prioritizing a smooth ride, quiet interior, and the effortless power of that V6 over outright fuel efficiency. Shoppers prioritizing pure economy likely look at the smaller Corsair or other brands entirely.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2021 Nautilus AWD 2.7L at 19 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the energy needed to repeatedly accelerate the Nautilus’ 4,500+ pound weight, a common efficiency drawback for heavier vehicles. The 25 MPG highway rating is more respectable, and achievable on long trips when maintaining steady speeds. The eight-speed automatic transmission helps optimize fuel economy at cruising speeds, quietly selecting the highest gear possible to keep engine RPMs low.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus AWD 2.7L is $2,100. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway. It also assumes a national average fuel price, so your actual costs will vary depending on where you live and current gasoline prices. This number provides a useful benchmark for comparing the running costs of the Nautilus to other vehicles, but owners should personalize this calculation based on their own driving habits and fuel expenses.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a standardized comparison, real-world fuel economy often differs. Factors like driving style, traffic conditions, and even the season (winter blends of gasoline typically reduce MPG slightly) can impact the numbers you see on your Nautilus’ trip computer. Aggressive acceleration, frequent hard braking, and prolonged idling will all significantly reduce fuel economy.

Conversely, smooth, steady driving, anticipating traffic flow, and minimizing idling will help you get closer to the EPA estimates. Don’t expect to consistently exceed the highway rating unless you’re exclusively on the open road.

How it compares

The Lexus RX 350 AWD, a perennial competitor, achieves a slightly better 22 MPG combined. The Acura MDX SH-AWD, with its more powerful engine, manages a similar 21 MPG combined. These differences, while seemingly minor, can add up over the lifespan of the vehicle. Looking outside the traditional luxury SUV segment, the smaller Cadillac XT4 AWD delivers notably better fuel economy at 24 MPG combined, which would appeal to buyers are prioritizing efficiency. Before making a purchase decision, be sure to compare the NAUTILUS MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. 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 pressure recommended on the sticker inside the driver’s side door. Consider that the computer systems in your vehicle may need to undergo some sort of Lincoln software update.

Avoid excessive idling. The 2.7L V6 isn’t particularly fuel-efficient when idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, it’s generally more fuel efficient to turn off the engine. Many newer vehicles have an auto start-stop feature that does this automatically, but in older models make sure to turn it off manually if you’ll only be stopped briefly.

Use cruise control on the highway whenever possible. Maintaining a constant speed not only improves fuel economy but can also reduce driver fatigue on long trips. Avoid sudden acceleration or deceleration while using cruise control, as this can negate some of the fuel-saving benefits.

Minimize your cargo. The heavier your Nautilus is, the more fuel it will consume. Remove any unnecessary items from the vehicle, such as sporting equipment or extra gear that you don’t need on a daily basis. Every extra pound adds up, especially in city driving.

Consider driving in “Normal” or “Eco” mode if your Nautilus is so equipped. These driving modes typically reduce throttle response and may adjust other vehicle settings to prioritize fuel economy. While you might sacrifice some performance, you can see a noticeable improvement in MPG, especially in city driving. Explore all Lincoln fuel economy data to understand the fuel efficiency strategies of the brand.