2022 Lincoln Nautilus vs 2021 BMW X5

The 2021 BMW X5 showcased BMW’s signature high-quality craftsmanship, being part of BMW's true SUV lineup that included odd-numbered SUVs like the X1, X3, and X7. This was distinct from the even-numbered models which resembled high-riding hatchbacks and crossovers. The X5's exterior exuded unmistakable BMW styling with its kidney grille and classic SUV proportions. The full adaptive LED headlights graced the corners, enhancing its premium look. The xLine models featured matte aluminum grilles and satin aluminum finishes for an upscale appearance. Meanwhile, the M Sport models added a sporty dimension with body-color matched trims and high-gloss black finishes on the roof rails and side window surrounds, riding on wheels ranging from 19- to 22 inches. Inside, the X5 shared many switches, dials, and displays from the BMW parts bin. While there was an abundance of dust-collecting black plastic, the cabin featured ample leather and soft-touch materials. The M Sport interior added unique sports-inspired elements like an M sports steering wheel and exclusive trim strips.

The 2022 Lincoln Nautilus, particularly in the Black Label trim, was equally striking. Its balanced design avoided awkwardness, featuring 21-inch machined-finish wheels that added character. The Lincoln Embrace lighting sequence was a standout feature, welcoming drivers and passengers upon approach. Inside, the Black Label models offered Chalet or Flight design themes, with our test vehicle highlighting the elegant Chalet theme with light gray premium leather. The Black Label trim included luxurious touches like a simulated suede headliner and premium floor mats. The overall ambiance was opulent, though the center console design and some chrome-plated plastic pieces appeared slightly cheap.

The 2021 BMW X5 offered a range of powertrains, all paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base sDrive40i/xDrive40i came with a 3.0-liter inline-six engine delivering 335 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. The X5 M50i housed a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 that produced 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, while the more powerful X5 M reached 600 hp, escalating to 617 hp with the Competition Package. The xDrive45e plug-in hybrid model combined a six-cylinder engine with a 24-kWh battery, achieving 389 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque, and offered up to 30 miles of all-electric range. Despite issues with steering dynamics and lack of the traditional BMW driving experience, the X5's cabin remained quiet and road noise minimal, offering a smooth ride. It took five hours to charge on a Level 2 charger and boasted varying fuel efficiencies depending on the model, from 15 mpg combined in the X5 M to 50 MPGe in the xDrive45e on combined electricity and gasoline.

The 2022 Lincoln Nautilus provided a choice between a standard 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 250 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque, and a twin-turbo 2.7-liter V6 engine in the Black Label trim, producing 335 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque. The Nautilus featured front-wheel drive standard with an optional all-wheel drive for better performance. It offered Comfort, Normal, and Sport driving modes, with Normal mode providing an optimal balance. The adaptive suspension and comfort features like the massaging and heated driver’s seat contributed to a smooth and pleasurable driving experience. It achieved a combined fuel economy rating of 21 mpg with its V6 engine. The Nautilus excelled as a road-tripper with impressive comfort and a quiet cabin for extended journeys.

The 2021 BMW X5 utilized space efficiently, offering comfortable seating albeit with front seats that became hard over long trips. The climate controls were intuitive, and the split liftgate with full power functionality was convenient for loading cargo. The X5 had a spacious cargo area, although the plug-in hybrid variant, the xDrive45e, offered slightly less due to the battery. However, moving children and cargo in and out was challenging as the rear doors didn’t open wide.

The 2022 Lincoln Nautilus provided a luxurious interior with supple leather, ambient lighting, and quiet drive courtesy of Active Noise Control. Both front seats were heated and ventilated, with optional 22-way power front seats offering exceptional comfort even on long journeys. The rear seats, though heated, were unexpectedly cramped for a midsize SUV. Storage spaces were adequate but sometimes inconveniently located. The Nautilus's cargo capacity stood at 37.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and expanded to 68.8 cubic feet when folded, adding practical utility along with the hands-free power liftgate for easier loading and unloading.

The 2021 BMW X5 boasted a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The standard tech included a digital gauge cluster, 10-speaker sound system, voice recognition, Bluetooth, five USB ports, and a panoramic moonroof. Optional upgrades included massaging seats, a 16-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, and a 20-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system. The iDrive system had a learning curve but proved user-friendly over time.

The 2022 Lincoln Nautilus featured a 13.2-inch touchscreen with the latest Sync 4 software, supporting over-the-air updates, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and SiriusXM 360L radio. The Black Label trim added a 19-speaker Revel audio system and intuitive user interface. The system's natural voice recognition worked well, and separate physical controls for stereo and climate were appreciated despite a less premium look compared to BMW’s finish. The innovative Phone as a Key feature offered convenience by turning the smartphone into a digital key.

The 2021 BMW X5 came equipped with extensive safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. However, its Driving Assistance Professional Package showed limitations with unreliable lane-keeping during sunlight and rain, requiring frequent disengagement. The X5 received nearly all Good ratings from IIHS and a four-star overall safety rating from NHTSA.

The 2022 Lincoln Nautilus also came standard with Lincoln Co-Pilot360 1.0, offering forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Black Label added advanced features like adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The safety systems performed reliably without causing driver irritation. NHTSA awarded the Nautilus a five-star overall rating, with IIHS safety ratings pending.