2021 Lincoln Nautilus vs 2021 Audi Q5

The 2021 Audi Q5 was a sharp-looking crossover SUV that embodied the Audi design language while maintaining its unique character. It featured an expressive front with LED headlights and a prominent Singleframe grille, emphasizing width. The body had crisp character lines, and the rear showcased bold taillights, contributing to its classy and modern appearance. The plug-in hybrid version, with S-Line trim pieces and enhancements, stood out even more, offering standard 19-inch wheels or optional 20-inch wheels. Inside, the Q5 maintained a classy and modern aesthetic, with technology integrated into an uncluttered design. The materials used were authentic, with real wood and metal, and the 10.1-inch touchscreen was strategically placed for easy access. The second row was well-appointed with standard leather seating surfaces.

The 2021 Lincoln Nautilus, previously known as the MKX, had evolved into a midsize luxury SUV with attractive styling. The exterior design carried over from previous years, but the cabin received a significant update. It featured a new dash design with clean lines, soft materials, and a large touchscreen. The "Piano Key" shifter-button layout was unconventional but user-friendly. The 13.2-inch SYNC 4 touchscreen system was easy to use, with high-definition graphics and a sensible menu layout. The Nautilus offered three trims: Standard, Reserve, and Black Label, each with varying levels of luxury and technology. The Black Label trim included a twin-turbo V6 engine, AWD, and a comprehensive list of driver assistance features.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV enhanced the driving experience with an additional 114 horsepower and 96 pound-feet of torque from a 14.1-kWh battery, resulting in a total output of 362 hp and 373 lb-ft of torque. This setup provided impressive acceleration, reaching 0-60 mph in 5.0 seconds. The Q5 PHEV offered a fuel economy of 65 MPGe combined and 27 mpg in gasoline-only mode. It featured a seven-speed S Tronic automatic transmission with Quattro all-wheel drive and multiple driving modes, including a battery-only mode for up to 20 miles. The Q5's handling was sporty yet comfortable, with minimal body roll and powerful braking.

The 2021 Lincoln Nautilus came standard with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. The Reserve and Black Label trims offered a twin-turbocharged 2.7-liter V6 engine with 355 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The V6 engine provided smooth and controlled power delivery, complemented by an adaptive suspension that minimized road bumps. The Nautilus was firm and composed through corners, offering a pleasant driving experience. However, the engine stop-start feature caused a slight delay in response.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV offered a well-balanced interior space with 25.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and up to 53.1 cubic feet with the second row folded. The second row provided 37.8 inches of legroom, 37.7 inches of headroom, and 56.5 inches of shoulder room, accommodating two adults comfortably. The front seats were supportive and adjustable, with heating and ventilation options. The interior design was uncluttered, with smartly laid-out controls and storage options.

The 2021 Lincoln Nautilus provided up to 68.8 cubic feet of cargo space, surpassing competitors like the Lexus RX 350 and Cadillac XT5. With the rear seats in use, it offered 37.2 cubic feet of cargo space. The Nautilus emphasized two-row comfort, with ample head- and legroom for rear passengers. The front seats were especially comfortable, with available 22-way multi-contour power-adjustable units. The interior featured a large center console bin and deep in-door pockets for storage.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV featured Audi's latest MMI 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, complemented by the Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus 12.3-inch HD instrument cluster. The system offered three views: classic, sport, and dynamic, enhancing the cabin's futuristic feel. The Prestige Package included a Navigation Package, optimizing fuel consumption and battery usage in hybrid mode. The Integrated Toll Module was standard, and a Bang & Olufsen 3D audio system was available on higher trims. Wireless Apple CarPlay was included.

The 2021 Lincoln Nautilus boasted a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system with high-definition graphics and a user-friendly menu layout. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were seamlessly integrated, with large icons for easy access. The available wireless charging pad enhanced the phone-car relationship. The Revel 19-speaker premium audio system provided excellent sound quality.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV had not been rated by the IIHS, but the 2020 gasoline model received top "good" ratings in most categories. The NHTSA awarded the 2021 gasoline model five stars. Safety features included six airbags, an anti-lock braking system, Audi Pre Sense, and various driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control and a top-view camera system.

The 2021 Lincoln Nautilus came with the CoPilot360 package, offering automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and more. Additional features included adaptive cruise control and surround-view parking monitor. However, the standard backup camera was of low quality, affecting visibility in low-light conditions.