2019 Lincoln Nautilus vs 2019 Acura MDX

The 2019 Lincoln Nautilus, essentially an updated MKX, retained its predecessor's handsome design while introducing a new face. Its exterior was more attractive than many of its competitors, with a sleek roofline, arching rear shoulder line, and slim tailgate that gave it a toned appearance. The Black Label trim added elegance with 22-inch wheels and a wide, thin taillight. Inside, the Nautilus continued the theme of luxury with soft leather from a Scottish tannery, matte wood accents, and plush materials. The Black Label trim offered exclusive finishes, but even the lesser trims felt luxurious.

In contrast, the 2019 Acura MDX had long dominated the midsize, 3-row crossover segment. It offered a blend of practicality and luxury, with continuous improvements since 2017. The 2019 model introduced a new A-Spec Package, improved interior materials, and transmission modifications. The A-Spec trim featured a unique front bumper, Shark Gray 20-inch wheels, and darkened lighting elements, giving it an aggressive look. Inside, the A-Spec had red leather and black Alcantara seats, a sporty steering wheel, and metallic trim, creating a serious yet whimsical interior.

The 2019 Lincoln Nautilus featured a new turbocharged 4-cylinder base engine, producing 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. However, the recommended option was the twin-turbo 2.7-liter V6, delivering 335 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, the Nautilus offered smooth acceleration and responsive paddle shifters. The steering was light yet connected, and the adaptive dampers provided a comfortable ride. Despite its size, the Nautilus managed an average fuel economy of 19-21 mpg city and 25-27 mpg highway.

The 2019 Acura MDX came standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, generating 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. The optional SH-AWD system enhanced driving dynamics with torque-vectoring capabilities. The MDX Sport Hybrid model offered a 3.0-liter V6 engine with three electric motors, producing 321 horsepower and 289 lb-ft of torque, and improved fuel economy. The MDX A-Spec trim provided a firm yet comfortable ride, with responsive steering and brakes. It achieved 19.7 mpg during testing, slightly below its EPA rating.

Inside the 2019 Lincoln Nautilus, simplicity was key, with an all-digital 12.3-inch gauge cluster and a central infotainment screen. The vertical PRNDS gear selector was the only confusing element. The Nautilus offered generous space, with reclining rear seats and a cargo capacity of 68.8 cubic feet with seats down. The power tailgate and ample storage options added convenience.

The 2019 Acura MDX boasted a comfortable and practical interior, with supportive front seats and a GPS-linked triple-zone climate control system. The second-row seats were spacious, but the third row was less comfortable. With the third row folded, the MDX offered 38.4 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 68.4 cubic feet with the second row down. The Advance Package added second-row captain’s chairs for enhanced comfort.

The 2019 Lincoln Nautilus featured the Sync 3 infotainment system, known for its simplicity and speed. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa support. The digital instrument cluster offered customization, and the optional front seats provided 22 ways of movement. The Driver Assistance package added semi-automated driving functions.

The 2019 Acura MDX's infotainment system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but its dual-screen setup was criticized for being confusing. The top screen handled navigation and settings, while the bottom screen managed radio and climate functions. The voice-recognition system was unreliable, and the screens were considered small for a luxury SUV. Future models were expected to adopt a more user-friendly interface.

The 2019 Lincoln Nautilus shared its safety ratings with the 2018 MKX, which received 5 stars from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick from IIHS. Standard safety features included forward-collision alert, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The Driver Assistance package added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist.

The 2019 Acura MDX earned a Top Safety Pick rating from IIHS, with AcuraWatch safety systems standard across all trims. The Technology Package added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. While the adaptive cruise control system lacked refinement, the MDX included a 90-day trial of AcuraLink Connect services for emergency notifications and vehicle tracking.