2024 Lincoln Nautilus vs 2023 Lexus RX

The 2023 Lexus RX presented a refined exterior with a shorter height, broader width, and longer wheelbase, maintaining the same overall length as its predecessor. Despite offering more cargo space than the 2022 model, it appeared smaller due to reduced rear overhang and softer design lines. The signature spindle-style grille was seamlessly integrated, featuring a modern mesh texture that flowed into an elevated hood. The RX's exterior styling was familiar yet fresh, distinguishing it from the previous generation and the smaller Lexus NX. Inside, the RX boasted a modern interior with fewer buttons, digital instrumentation, and a choice of touchscreen displays. High-quality materials were evident, with options for genuine leather and simulated suede. The RX 350 was available in multiple trims, with pricing expected to remain close to the previous model's base price.

The 2024 Lincoln Nautilus debuted with sophisticated exterior styling, featuring a bifurcated grille with LED lighting extending through it, illuminating the Lincoln star logo. The rear showcased a full-width animated LED light bar and dual exhaust ports, while the profile incorporated high door handles into the beltline. The interior was a highlight, with a massive full-width screen and high-quality materials like polished metal, open-pore wood, and fine leather. The Jet Appearance Package offered additional customization options. The Nautilus was available in Premiere, Reserve, and Black Label trims, with the latter offering the most luxurious features.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. During testing, the RX 350 Luxury trim displayed occasional torque steer and excess body motion over uneven surfaces, while the F Sport Handling trim felt more secure with its adaptive damping suspension. The RX 350 AWD accelerated to 60 mph in 7.2 seconds, with fuel economy estimates of 24 mpg combined. However, real-world results were slightly lower.

The 2024 Lincoln Nautilus came standard with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivering 250 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The hybrid option offered 310 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, with an impressive 30 mpg combined fuel economy and a range of over 600 miles. The Nautilus featured five drive modes, with the hybrid equipped with a CVT that performed smoothly. While not a driver's car, the Nautilus provided a satisfying driving experience.

The 2023 Lexus RX offered comfortable seating, with the F Sport Handling package providing sport seat bolsters for added support. The RX 350 Luxury trim featured premium leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The back seat was roomy, with good leg support and legroom, though headroom was tight for taller passengers. Cargo space was improved, with 29.6 cubic feet behind the second row and 46.2 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2024 Lincoln Nautilus excelled in comfort, especially with the Black Label model's 24-way Perfect Position front seats, offering massage and extended heating functions. Rear passengers enjoyed 43 inches of legroom, surpassing competitors like the BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GLE. The Rejuvenate feature combined massage, lighting, and screen images for relaxation. Cargo space was generous, with 36 cubic feet behind the second row and 71 cubic feet with the seats folded in the Premiere trim.

The 2023 Lexus RX featured the new Lexus Interface infotainment system with a choice of 9.8-inch or 14-inch touchscreen displays. It included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and various connected services. The Intelligent Assistant responded to voice commands, though it occasionally provided inaccurate results. The system allowed user profiles and streaming through embedded apps. The Mark Levinson premium sound system required adjustments for optimal sound quality. Additional features included digital instrumentation, Digital Latch door handles, and an optional head-up display.

The 2024 Lincoln Nautilus boasted a stunning 48-inch curved display, with customizable sections for various information. An 11.1-inch touchscreen handled basic infotainment duties, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. HVAC controls were easily accessible, though vent adjustments required navigating menus. Unlabelled steering wheel controls were a distraction, but Google Maps and Alexa Built-in added convenience. Wireless charging and USB ports were standard.

The 2023 Lexus RX came equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering advanced driving assistance systems like motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, and intersection turn assistance. New semi-autonomous features included Proactive Driving Assist, Traffic Jam Assist, and Advanced Park Assist. While impressive, some features had limitations, such as the HUD's visibility issues with polarized sunglasses and the curve-speed reduction technology's lack of predictiveness.

The 2024 Lincoln Nautilus featured the Lincoln CoPilot 360 suite, including lane-keeping assist, park assist, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and emergency braking. Blue Cruise 1.2 technology offered hands-free driving on pre-mapped highways, with automatic lane-change assist and In-Lane Repositioning. The 2023 Nautilus received high safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, though the 2024 model had not yet been fully rated.