The 22 MPG combined rating accurately reflects the 2020 Lincoln Nautilus AWD 2.0L: it’s not the most fuel-efficient, but it’s also not a gas guzzler compared to other mid-size luxury SUVs. This Nautilus is designed to offer a comfortable, quiet experience with elegant styling. It’s for buyers who prioritize a smooth ride and a refined interior over pure fuel economy. The 2.0L engine provides reasonable power for daily driving while keeping running costs manageable, though not class-leading.

City and highway performance

EPA estimates show different performance levels. The 20 MPG city rating indicates stop-and-go traffic uses more fuel, as expected with an all-wheel-drive vehicle of this size. The 25 MPG highway rating is better. This means longer road trips are less expensive, showing the Nautilus is most efficient when cruising at consistent speeds. The eight-speed automatic transmission is smooth and responsive and is geared for fuel efficiency in higher gears, helping highway MPG.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Lincoln Nautilus AWD 2.0L at $2,000. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and national average fuel prices at the time of testing. Your fuel costs will vary depending on local gas prices and your driving habits. Use this number as a comparison point and consider your own driving to estimate your expenses.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides standardized testing, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Some drivers of the 2020 Lincoln Nautilus AWD 2.0L report figures close to the EPA estimates. Some see slightly lower numbers in demanding conditions, like heavy city traffic or short trips with a cold engine. Others report exceeding the EPA highway estimate when driving conservatively on long trips. Tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and driving style all affect your actual fuel consumption.

How it compares

For context, the 2020 Lexus RX 350 AWD gets a similar 22 MPG combined, but it uses a V6 engine. The Volvo XC60 T5 AWD, with its turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder, gets 23 MPG combined, a slight advantage. Audi’s Q5 with its 45 TFSI engine delivers 24 MPG combined. These numbers show the Nautilus’s fuel economy is similar to its competitors. The choice often depends on things besides fuel efficiency, like interior design, ride comfort, and specific features.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key to using less gas in the Nautilus 2.0L. Avoid sudden bursts of speed, especially from a stop, since this uses more fuel. A smooth, steady approach to acceleration allows the turbocharger to spool up gradually, providing power efficiently.

Check your tire pressure regularly and keep it at the recommended level, found on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Checking your tires also improves safety.

Reduce idling time. If you’re waiting for more than a minute, it’s better to turn off the engine and restart it than to idle. Modern engines are made to restart quickly and efficiently, reducing the fuel wasted during idling.

Avoid using accessories like air conditioning and heated seats if you don’t need them. These put more load on the engine, increasing fuel consumption. Only use them when necessary to stay comfortable without wasting gas. Lower the temperature to a tolerable level to reduce power consumption.

Keep your vehicle maintained. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance ensure the engine runs well. A well-maintained engine is more efficient. See all Lincoln fuel economy data for more information. Or, explore the NAUTILUS MPG across all years.