2019 Lincoln Nautilus

Pros: Spacious, quiet cabin; fine acceleration from turbo V6; good selection of safety and comfort features

Cons: Some testers find push-button gear selection awkward; top models are a questionable value

CG Says: Lincoln is in the process of swapping out its alphabetic model-naming convention, and the brand’s MKX becomes the Nautilus for 2019. Like its corporate cousin, the Ford Edge, Lincoln’s premium midsize crossover SUV has refreshed styling and a revised powertrain lineup this year. The new base powertrain is a 250-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder paired with an 8-speed automatic. The naturally-aspirated 3.7-liter V6 has been dropped. The 335-hp turbocharged 2.7-liter V6 returns, but its 6-speed automatic transmission is replaced with an 8-speed automatic. Both engines have stop/start functionality. All models offer a choice of front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Standard on all trim levels is the new Lincoln Co-Pilot360 safety package, which includes pre-collision alert, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot alert, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic high-beam headlights. Also available are lane-centering technology and evasive steer assist, a feature that will provide additional steering assist if necessary to avoid an imminent forward impact. Available luxury features include massaging 22-way power seats, panoramic sunroof, hands-free power liftgate, wireless cell-phone charging, and active park assist. The new 2019 Lincoln Nautilus, with its fresh styling and Continental-like grille, does a good job of distancing itself from its Ford Edge counterpart. With its impressive list of safety and comfort/convenience features, Nautilus is credible entry in the premium midsize crossover segment.