2025 Lexus RX Hybrid vs 2026 Lincoln Nautilus

In 2024, the Lexus RX was the best-selling traditional luxury model in America. But is the midsize, two-row SUV’s popularity justifiable? Or does the RX sell on the strength of the Lexus brand and the model’s legendary reputation for reliability, a plush ride, and a quiet interior? The changes to the 2025 RX don’t help answer that question, unless you're looking for sportier choices, such as the new Black Line Special Edition shown here.

Verdict: Though it lacks substantial competition in the luxury hybrid SUV segment, the 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid is worthy of consideration. With hybrid, performance hybrid, and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain choices, as well as a range of trim levels that cater to a variety of customer requirements, it checks a lot of boxes.

Most luxury automakers pursue power and sportiness to go with their vehicles’ luxury. Luxury is Lincoln's only consideration, and the 2026 Nautilus is a perfect example. It offers dashing good looks, smooth power delivery, and a new take on interior technology—but most of all it’s about opulence.

Verdict: The 2026 Lincoln Nautilus is for the buyer for whom comfort, luxury, and technology are more important than outright power and sporty handling. Its take on technology splashes the interior with screens, which some will find overwhelming, but the Nautilus is also roomy, and its hybrid powertrain is the clear choice in the lineup, even though it doesn’t achieve top-notch fuel economy.