23 MPG combined is a respectable figure for the 2019 Lincoln Nautilus FWD with the 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder. This isn’t a sports car, nor is it a stripped-down economy model. The Nautilus is a mid-size luxury SUV designed for comfort, quietness, and a smooth ride. Buyers in this segment prioritize these attributes, and while fuel efficiency is still a consideration, features and refinement often take precedence. The Nautilus aims to offer a premium experience at a price point below some of its European rivals, and the 2.0L engine is a key part of that.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2019 Nautilus FWD 2.0L place city driving at 21 MPG and highway cruising at 26 MPG. The difference here is typical of turbocharged engines; they tend to perform well on the highway with disciplined use of the throttle. In city driving, stop-and-go traffic and the need to accelerate from a standstill will drop the MPG quickly. The eight-speed automatic transmission plays a role here, keeping the engine in its optimal power band and contributing to both performance and fuel economy. Don’t expect hybrid-like efficiency in urban environments, but high way figures suggest relaxed long-distance journeys won’t be overly penalized at the pump.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Lincoln Nautilus FWD 2.0L at $1,900. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and assumes national average fuel prices. Individual fuel costs will vary depending on driving habits and local fuel prices, so this $1,900 provides a standardized benchmark for comparing the Nautilus with other vehicles. It’s a useful tool for budgeting and understanding the long-term cost of ownership.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures offer a baseline, real-world fuel economy always varies. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and carrying heavy loads will all negatively impact fuel consumption. Owners who primarily drive in dense urban areas with frequent idling and stop-and-go traffic might see figures below 21 MPG. Conversely, drivers who spend most of their time on the open highway, using cruise control and maintaining a steady speed, could potentially exceed the 26 MPG estimate. The key is to drive smoothly, anticipate traffic flow, and avoid unnecessary acceleration and braking. Understanding your own driving patterns is essential to accurately predicting your personal fuel costs. Check out NAUTILUS MPG across all years to find more estimates.

How it compares

The 2019 Lincoln Nautilus FWD 2.0L competes in a crowded segment of mid-size luxury SUVs. A comparable Lexus RX 350 FWD achieves around 23 MPG combined, similar to the Nautilus. However, the Acura RDX, with its turbocharged 2.0L engine and standard all-wheel drive, manages around 24 MPG combined, slightly bettering the Nautilus. The BMW X3 sDrive30i (rear-wheel drive) might achieve slightly higher MPG figures, around 25 MPG combined, but comes at a higher base price. These comparisons are important to buyers who are cross-shopping vehicles within this class. A single MPG point can translate to hundreds of dollars in fuel savings over the long run.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Nautilus is equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Using a light foot on the accelerator will allow the transmission to shift into higher gears quickly, which saves fuel. Avoid aggressive acceleration because the turbocharger will need more fuel to build pressure to generate engine power to move the vehicle quickly.

Tire pressure plays a critical role in fuel economy. Check your tires regularly to ensure they are inflated to the recommended pressure, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Even a few PSI below the recommended level can make a noticeable difference.

Avoid unnecessary idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, it’s generally more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, and idling consumes fuel without moving the vehicle. This is especially relevant in urban environments with frequent traffic lights and stop signs.

When possible, use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed reduces throttle inputs and wasted fuel. This is especially effective on long, flat stretches of road. However, be mindful of changing traffic conditions and be prepared to disengage cruise control when necessary. See all Lincoln fuel economy data here.