By Tony C. Lesesne
Driving the all-new 2024 Lincoln Nautilus Black Label through Miami and Fort Lauderdale gave me a true sense of what this luxury SUV brings to the table. This isn’t just another SUV—it’s a statement, a game-changer, and perhaps Lincoln’s boldest leap into the future. From cruising up I-95 to navigating side streets and even enduring the infamous South Florida traffic, this vehicle delivered an experience that left me impressed. For the redesign of this mid-size 5-passenger luxury SUV, the mission of Lincoln was to create the experience of presence. To reduce distractions and enhance the road.
Let’s get into the specs before diving into the details. Under the hood, the Nautilus boasts a 2.0L turbocharged I-4 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, enhanced by Lincoln's cutting-edge BlueCruise system for hands-free highway driving.
The 2024 Nautilus isn't only about muscle; the manufacturers have put in tremendous effort in making it an SUV with very decent performance. The non-hybrid model impressively achieves 0-60 mph in seven seconds. The Nautilus is extremely quiet, and the suspension delivers a smooth ride, even when the road gets rough. The Lincoln feels stable and comfortable at 70 mph on the highway.
The test model, wrapped in Chroma Caviar Dark Gray Metallic with a sumptuous Redwood-themed interior, came equipped with the Jet Appearance Package. The price tag? $80,845 as tested—and worth every penny. Sales of the latest Nautilus jumped 42% in the first half of 2024 compared to the year-earlier period. And if you're wondering, kids, the Nautilus comes in a hybrid version as well — a powertrain that has been doing quite well for Lincoln and parent company Ford. Yes!!
Driving Experience: A Miami Marvel
Taking the Nautilus on the open stretches of I-95, I pushed it a bit to see what it could do. The ride was quiet yet sturdy, with the turbocharged engine delivering smooth bursts of power when needed. In traffic, the BlueCruise system was a lifesaver, making stop-and-go driving far less stressful. The suspension absorbed South Florida’s uneven roads effortlessly, while the handling remained responsive and composed.
Exterior Design: Futuristic Elegance
Lincoln has taken a daring turn with the Nautilus’ exterior design, opting for sleek sophistication over the traditional chrome-heavy luxury look. The Chroma Caviar Dark Gray Metallic paint is mesmerizing, giving off a subtle sheen that commands attention without being ostentatious.
Up front, the black-gloss grille departs from Lincoln’s usual chrome accents, adding a sporty, forward-looking vibe.
The sloping roofline and elongated rear design are reminiscent of high-end European sports cars, blending elegance with practicality. The rear spoiler, horizontal lighting band, and beefy tires complete the look with a mix of aggression and refinement.
And those rim designs? Stunning. Lincoln has successfully crafted an SUV that’s equal parts luxury and performance in appearance.
Interior: A Symphony of Technology, Comfort, and Futuristic Wonder
Stepping into the 2024 Lincoln Nautilus Black Label is like boarding the Starship Enterprise from Star Trek. Seriously. As a lifelong sci-fi fan, I was like a kid in a candy store, grinning ear to ear as I took it all in. The moment you settle into the driver’s seat, you’re surrounded by an array of controls, digital readouts, and a futuristic vibe that feels lightyears ahead of its time.
The recessed, door-to-door horizontal screen is a masterpiece—a digital visor stretching across the dash with cinematic landscapes and functional displays. It’s a seamless integration of beauty and technology, offering everything from driving data to atmospheric visuals that transport you to another dimension. This isn’t just a dashboard; it’s an experience.
The Redwood-themed interior amplifies this futuristic aura with impeccable craftsmanship and luxurious details. The sport-inspired bucket seats hug you in all the right places, ensuring comfort whether you're cruising down I-95 or stuck in traffic on the 836. The center stack gleams with glossy finishes, reflecting the care Lincoln has poured into every touchpoint.
The sound system, courtesy of Revel, immerses you in dynamic audio quality that’s perfect for everything from your favorite playlists to podcast binges. And when you look up, the panoramic sunroof provides a celestial view that enhances the overall space-age vibe.
The second row and cargo area don’t skimp on luxury or space, either. Whether you’re carrying passengers, luggage, or both, the Nautilus has you covered with room to spare.
For someone who loves tech and design that leans into the future, this interior is pure glee. Lincoln didn’t just design an SUV; they created an environment that feels like it’s from a sci-fi dream.
Final Verdict: Worth Every Dollar
At just over $80,000, the 2024 Lincoln Nautilus Black Label competes in a tough luxury SUV segment—but it more than holds its own. From its striking design to its cutting-edge technology and exceptional driving dynamics, this SUV is a clear winner. Whether you’re commuting through Miami or cruising the open highway, the Nautilus delivers an experience that’s as captivating as the city it drove through.
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