24 MPG combined is a respectable figure for the 2024 Lincoln Nautilus AWD 2.0L 4-cyl, but fuel efficiency isn’t the primary concern for someone drawn to this vehicle. The Nautilus is luxurious and has advanced technology, so gas mileage isn’t the highest priority. This is a rolling sanctuary aimed at professionals and empty-nesters who value elegant design, a quietly quiet cabin, and a smooth, confident driving experience. They want a premium experience, and they understand that comes with certain trade-offs when it comes to fuel consumption.

City and highway performance

Breaking down the 24 MPG combined figure, the Nautilus achieves an EPA-estimated 21 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. This split reveals a powertrain optimized for cruising comfort. The 8-speed automatic transmission works smoothly with the 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine to deliver smooth, linear power. Around town, expect adequate acceleration, though the Nautilus never feels particularly sporty. It shines on longer highway journeys. The 29 MPG highway figure is attainable with a steady hand, making the Nautilus a comfortable companion for road trips, provided you can resist the urge to constantly bury your right foot.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2024 Lincoln Nautilus AWD 2.0L 4-cyl will be $1,800. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Remember that this is just an estimate, and your personal fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you typically do, and the price of gasoline.

Aggressive driving, frequent short trips in cold weather, and neglecting regular maintenance will all negatively impact your fuel expenses.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates offer a useful benchmark, real-world MPG often differs due to various factors such as driving habits. Expect to see figures slightly lower than the EPA estimates, particularly in demanding conditions.

Stop-and-go traffic, hilly terrain, and aggressive driving will all reduce your fuel economy. Conversely, if you prioritize smooth acceleration, expect highway driving, and adhere to posted speed limits, achieving or even slightly exceeding the EPA numbers is possible. Careful trip planning and conscious driving habits can make a difference.

How it compares

In the competitive mid-size luxury SUV segment, the Nautilus finds itself among rivals with varying degrees of fuel efficiency. The Acura RDX, with its standard 2.0L turbo engine and SH-AWD, achieves an EPA-estimated 23 MPG combined. The Lexus NX 350h hybrid boasts a superior 39 MPG combined, appealing to those who prioritize lower fuel costs. Meanwhile, the Volvo XC60 B5 AWD settles in at around 25 MPG combined. The Cadillac XT5, equipped with its 2.0L turbo engine, gets an EPA-estimated 24 MPG combined, matching the Nautilus. This tight grouping shows that the Nautilus’s fuel economy is within the norm for its class and an acceptable compromise for luxury and features for its target buyer. You can review all Lincoln fuel economy data at FuelEconomyHub.com.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key to maximizing fuel economy in the Nautilus. Avoid sudden bursts of speed and try to maintain a consistent pace, especially when accelerating from a stop. The turbocharged engine responds well to smooth throttle inputs, allowing you to build speed without excessive fuel consumption.

Proper tire inflation plays a significant role in fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly and ensure it meets the manufacturer’s recommended specifications. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Hauling around heavy items in the trunk or rear seats adds to the vehicle’s overall mass and reduces fuel economy. Remove any items that you don’t need on a regular basis to lighten the load.

Avoid prolonged idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines restart quickly and efficiently, and idling consumes fuel without providing any benefit.

Use cruise control on the highway to maintain a steady speed. Cruise control helps to minimize variations in speed, which can improve fuel economy on long drives. However, be mindful of terrain and adjust the cruise control as needed for optimal performance.

You can find archived NAUTILUS MPG across all years at FuelEconomyHub.com.