21 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel economy awards, but that’s what you get with the 2023 Lincoln Nautilus AWD with the 2.7L V6. This isn’t a vehicle bought for its efficiency but for quiet comfort, effortless highway cruising, and a distinctive American luxury experience. Owners prioritize a smooth ride and a hushed cabin over squeezing every last mile from a gallon of fuel, and they’re generally okay with the trade-off.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates suggest 19 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The city figure is probably realistic for typical stop-and-go driving. The highway number can be achievable or even surpassed if you maintain a steady cruising speed. The eight-speed automatic transmission helps here, keeping the engine in its sweet spot for both power and efficiency when on the open road. Aggressive acceleration will quickly diminish those highway MPG numbers. The spread between city and highway reflects the engine’s nature: it works harder in city driving because of the constant starts, stops, and need for quicker acceleration.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, expect to spend around $2,100 per year on fuel for the 2023 Lincoln Nautilus AWD. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles annually, with a mix of city and highway conditions, and it assumes national average fuel prices. Individual fuel costs will vary depending on your specific driving habits, local fuel prices, and the amount of time spent idling. $2,100 isn’t insignificant, but it’s a known expense for those who value the Nautilus’s other attributes.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA numbers provide a benchmark, real-world MPG will always vary. If you spend most of your time in heavy city traffic, you’re likely to see numbers closer to the lower end of the spectrum. However, lots of highway driving will push you toward the upper end. Consistent use of features like remote start, especially in colder climates, will also impact your fuel consumption. Remember, the Nautilus is a sizable vehicle with all-wheel drive, so even the 25 MPG highway figure is more of an optimistic target under perfect conditions. Consider the NAUTILUS MPG across all years to see how the model has evolved.

How it compares

The fuel economy of the Nautilus needs to be looked at within its class. For example, the Acura MDX SH-AWD manages around 19 MPG city, 26 MPG highway, placing it slightly ahead on the highway. The Lexus RX 350 AWD returns similar numbers around 19 MPG city and 26 MPG highway, making it a direct competitor in terms of fuel efficiency. A BMW X3 xDrive30i, while smaller and with a four-cylinder engine, lands at 21 MPG city and 28 MPG highway.

All these vehicles are targeting the same luxury buyer, but the nuances in fuel economy can sway those who are on the fence. The Cadillac XT5 AWD, another direct competitor, offers roughly the same combined mileage as the Lincoln. Drivers choosing a Nautilus over these alternatives in this class are likely prioritizing ride quality, interior space, or Lincoln’s distinctive styling over marginal gains in fuel efficiency. Review all Lincoln fuel economy data to see how it fits in the broader range of Lincoln vehicles.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration can significantly improve fuel economy. The Nautilus’s 2.7L V6 offers plenty of power, so there’s no need to floor it from every stop. Gradual acceleration allows the engine and transmission to operate more efficiently, conserving fuel. Avoid sudden bursts of power and anticipate traffic flow to maintain a smoother, more consistent speed.

Maintaining proper tire inflation is critical. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended PSI listed on the door jamb sticker. This simple step can noticeably improve your MPG.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying excessive cargo in the trunk or backseat adds weight to the vehicle, impacting fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need to carry regularly. Reducing the load on the engine can contribute to improvements in MPG over time.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine idle for extended periods wastes fuel. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern vehicles are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, and the fuel saved from avoiding prolonged idling can add up.