2022 Lincoln Nautilus Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons.

There are only four Lincoln models available for the 2022 model year, and the 2022 Lincoln Nautilus is one of them. This mid-size crossover luxury SUV is built off the same foundation as the Ford Edge, so if you've ever ridden in one of those, you have an idea of what to expect. The compact Lincoln Corsair slates below this model while the third-row Aviator is situated above it.

The all-new 2022 Lincoln Nautilus brings luxury and convenience together to create a truly unique driving experience. Featuring the exclusive Black Label Flight interior, this one-of-a kind model provides generous amounts of legroom for passengers as well as adjustable seats up front that are designed with comfort in mind. Upgrade to the optional V6 turbocharged engine for smooth acceleration every time you hit the road. Plus, an intuitive infotainment system means tech savviness isn't necessary - everyone can enjoy using its feature packed controls.

But you're going to have to put up with a few drawbacks. The Nautilus is still very much based on the 2016 MKX, so it can sometimes feel outdated. Even the massive key fob feels too weighty and difficult to carry in your pocket. Then you also have the piano key gear selector that can be frustrating to use. Finally, with the panoramic sunroof equipped, head space for rear seat occupants gets compromised.

Compare the Nautilus Standard vs Reserve. What is the difference?

The 2022 Lincoln Nautilus offers drivers a thrilling drive with its turbocharged 2.0-liter 4 cylinder engine, granting an impressive 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque when mated to the standard 8 speed automatic transmission - all while keeping you grounded in front wheel drive (or upgradeable to AWD). With two trim levels available right off the bat – Standard and Reserve - there’s sure be something for every driver.
The Reserve also lets you opt for an adaptive suspension and evasive steering assist. Standard handling features include electric assisted power steering, lane keep assist, and the auto hold function. Moreover, the list of power features includes hill start assist. The Standard rides on top of 18-inch aluminum wheels that are painted. It has an option for 18-inch bright machined aluminums with premium paint, which comes standard on the Reserve. The Reserve opens wheel options for 20-inch painted premium bright machined aluminums, 21-inch wheels in the same style, and 20-inch black aluminum wheels. You can also opt to equip an 18-inch mini spare tire.

How similar do these two trim levels look on the outside? Well, they both have full LED headlights with auto-on/off and LED dynamic signature lighting. There are also automatic high beam headlights and LED taillights with LED reverse lamps. Chrome trim adorns the lower parts of the doors, and the rear has dual chrome exhaust tips. The Easy Fuel capless fuel filler lives up to its name, and you get to utilize some rear parking sensors too. The Standard has a power liftgate while the Reserve lets you opt for a hands-free version. Another option that opens up on it is for LED fog lights. The driver's side mirror is auto-dimming with an integrated memory feature. Auto-folding power side mirrors are standard issue.

The Standard and Reserve share some of the same interior features, but the Reserve adds more to help justify the price tag jump. A huge 13.2-inch infotainment touchscreen is built into the center stack, plus there is a sizable 12.3-inch LCD instrument cluster display screen for all your important vehicle data. Cargo accessories and a mat are optional on both trims but might be worth it if you need the extra versatility. Ambient lighting gets added to the Reserve trim level.

Up front, there is a standard frameless auto-dimming rear-view mirror. The front and rear both have carpeted floor mats, and a blind spot monitoring system is standard issue as part of the Lincoln Co-Pilot 360 1.0 system. This also bundles in lane keep assist, a lane departure warning, pedestrian detection on the forward collision mitigation system, and automatic high beam headlights.

Both front visors have illuminated vanity mirrors with a sliding feature as part of the design. A dual-zone automatic climate control system allows you to cool or heat the cabin according to different preferences. The front center floor console comes with armrest built atop a deep storage bin, two cupholders, and a few power/USB outlets. A leather-wrapped steering wheel with secondary sound controls and cruise control is equipped. A heated steering wheel makes its way onto the Reserve, but both trims share a locking glovebox and intermittent front windshield wipers.

More standard interior features include push button start with the Intelligent Access system, cabin air filtration system, and sunglasses holder built into the overhead console. The Standard has a manually tilting and telescoping steering wheel with a power-adjustable one as an option. The latter comes standard on the Reserve. Remote start, acoustic laminated glass on the side windows and windshield, active noise control, the piano key shifter, Lincoln Embrace, remote keyless entry, cross-traffic alert, and electronic parking brake find their way into both vehicles.

A few more Reserve upgrades worth mentioning are the rain-sensing windshield wipers, panoramic sunroof, and illuminated front door scuff plates. You also get treated to a standard wireless charging pad for your smartphone, which eliminates the need for those pesky charging cords. Options open up for the Phone As A Key system, Distance Indication and Alert, 110V/150W AC power outlet, Enhanced Active Park Assist, the Cargo Utility Package, and Forward-Side-Rear Parking Sensors. You can also switch to one of two wood trims: Santos Rosewood or an open-pore Espresso Ash Swirl. Either one makes for a nice-looking upgrade.

The list of standard safety features feels generous on both trims. The Standard and Reserve are equipped with the Front-Passenger Sensing System, a rear-view camera with a built-in washer, a full smattering of airbags, My Key, a personalized safety settings system, the Safety Canopy System, an SOS Post-Crash Alert System, and Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking. Security measures include a perimeter alarm, the SecuriCode keyless entry keypad, and a tire inflator and sealant kit. To this, the Reserve adds the Enhanced Safety Package.

Compare the Reserve vs Black Label Trims. What is the difference?

So, how exactly does the all-new Black Label top the already-generous Reserve trim level? Does it have enough upgrades to justify the rather staggering leap in price? That all depends on what you feel you really - really - need from a luxury SUV.

Let's start with the Black Label's power upgrades. Its fresh-faced, super spunky twin-turbocharged 2.7-liter V6 engine is nothing to scoff at with its 335 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque. This marks a pretty significant power upgrade, for sure. That's not to mention the adaptive suspension comes equipped, as does evasive steering. All-wheel drive is standard too. This does mark a slight drop in fuel economy but might be worth it if you drive on slick road surfaces a lot or plan to do some light off-roading. Also, take note that paddle shifters get added to the 8-speed automatic transmission set-up. Unique to the Black Label are 21-inch painted bright machined wheels crafted from aluminum.

The Black Label edition of the Nautilus takes luxury to a new level with features such as full LED multi-projector headlights and fog lights, hands-free power liftgate ,forward/side/rear parking sensors, Enhanced Active Park Assist for effortless maneuvering in tight spots, 360 surround sound camera giving you an eagle eye view all around your car along with Alcantara headliner and floor mats adding that extra touch of sophistication. Not forgetting Phone As A Key technology which offers keyless convenience plus Distance Indication Alert for optimum safety on those long drives.

You also get upgraded to the 19-speaker Revel Ultima Audio System with integrated HD Radio tech. This marks a pretty big leap over the Reserve's standard 10-speaker premium AM/FM sound system with an included subwoofer. The Black Label also has Venetian leather upholstery, which swaps out the Bridge of Weir Deep-soft leather-trimmed seats found inside of the Reserve. The all-new Lincoln Black Label Flight Theme is optional, and it includes unique wood appliques and an upgraded headliner. It is all about evoking the feeling of travel, just as the name suggests.

Final Thoughts

All three of the 2022 Lincoln Nautilus' trim levels have appealing facets to them. Quite naturally, the Standard offers the best price, but it is only moderately more affordable than the well-adorned mid-tier Reserve trim level. And the new Black Label is nothing short of chic, offering a slew of interior and power upgrades that reflect its massive price leap over the Reserve.

That being said, here are our recommendations. If you have to keep to a budget of under $50,000, go for the Reserve trim level. It represents the best value in the line-up. You pay only a little bit extra for a lot in the way of additional features. Most buyers will be satisfied with this trim level, especially if they have never driven a luxury SUV before. It already feels mind-blowing enough when you look at the list of features.

The Black Label should not be underestimated though, as these variants have been successful on other Lincoln models. The optional Flight Theme looks and feels amazing, as if you have been transported back to the heyday of intercontinental first-class travel - but with all the modern bells and whistles equipped. Still, this is a trim level you should only buy if your budget is quite a bit looser than that of the average shopper.

The Nautilus has made bold strides in Lincoln's fleet of luxury vehicles, but with a hefty price tag it's no wonder not everyone is on board. Happily though, the ever-popular Black Label edition may change all that and bring this stately ride to the forefront amongst those seeking luxury at its finest.