The luxury SUV market is fiercely competitive, with brands like BMW, Mercedes, and Lexus dominating the scene. However, a new player has entered the game and is making waves: the Lincoln Nautilus. Recently named the 2025 SUV of the Year by MotorTrend, the Nautilus is proving to be a game-changer for the Lincoln brand. Let's dive into what makes this SUV special and what potential buyers should consider.

The Nautilus: A Game-Changer for Lincoln

The Lincoln Nautilus has been turning heads in the luxury SUV segment. Dianne Craig, the company's president, stated:

"The all-new Nautilus has been an absolute game changer for the Lincoln brand."

This sentiment is backed up by impressive sales figures. While not yet matching the big players like BMW, Mercedes, and Lexus, the Nautilus has outperformed some notable competitors:

• Lincoln has sold about 26,000 Nautilus units

• Cadillac has sold around 18,000 XT5s

• BMW, Mercedes, and Lexus are selling around 50,000 units each of their comparable models

Key Buying Factors for the Lincoln Nautilus

1. Inventory and Availability

Currently, Lincoln has about 8,000 Nautilus units in inventory, mostly 2024 models. This is significant because competitors are already moving to 2025 inventory. The breakdown of available models is:

• 4,500 gas engine Nautilus

• 3,500 hybrid Nautilus

Most of the inventory consists of Reserve or Premiere trims, with fewer Black Label models available.

2. Pricing and Discounts

For a Nautilus Hybrid Reserve AWD with an MSRP of $57,945, potential buyers might aim for:

• 7% off MSRP before rebates (around $54,000)

• Possible better deals closer to or after the New Year

3. Current Incentives

Lincoln is offering:

• 4.9% promotional financing for 60 months

• $2,000 conquest cash for non-Ford/Lincoln trade-ins

With these incentives, the adjusted final price could be around $51,888.

4. Lease Program

The current lease program offers:

• 52% residual at 36 months and 12,000 miles per year

• 2% APR

Based on these terms and assuming a 7% discount off MSRP, monthly payments could be around $672 (excluding state sales tax).

The Nautilus Compared to Competitors

While the Nautilus is making strides, it's important to note that competitors like the BMW X3 and Genesis GV70 might offer better lease deals. However, the Nautilus may have the best interior in its segment, which could be a deciding factor for some buyers.

Conclusion

The Lincoln Nautilus is undoubtedly making its mark in the luxury SUV market. Its recent accolades and impressive sales figures show that it's a serious contender. However, potential buyers should carefully consider factors like pricing, incentives, and lease terms, especially in comparison to established competitors.

If you're in the market for a luxury SUV, the Nautilus is worth a look. Its stunning interior and improving brand reputation make it an intriguing option. However, as with any major purchase, it's essential to do your research and compare it with other options in the segment.

Have you considered the Lincoln Nautilus? What features are most important to you in a luxury SUV? Share your thoughts in the comments below!