Choosing a premium SUV in 2026 means balancing comfort, efficiency, and long-term value.
The Lincoln Nautilus and Mazda CX-90 PHEV target buyers who want refinement without sacrificing performance.
Both models score competitively in independent data-driven ratings.
However, they appeal to different lifestyles and priorities.
Design, Seating and Practicality
The 2026 Lincoln Nautilus is a five-seat midsize SUV designed for comfort-focused driving.
It offers a spacious cabin and generous cargo capacity for daily commuting and family use.
With the rear seats upright, the Nautilus provides 1,053 litres of boot space.
Folding the seats expands cargo volume to 1,948 litres, ideal for long trips.
The Mazda CX-90 PHEV, by contrast, is a three-row SUV.
It seats seven or eight passengers, making it better suited for larger families.
Despite smaller cargo space behind the third row, folding the seats unlocks up to 2,101 litres of storage.
Powertrain and Efficiency
Lincoln equips the Nautilus with a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine.
It delivers 250 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Fuel efficiency stands at 9.8 L/100 km combined, according to NRCan ratings.
Mazda takes a different approach with a plug-in hybrid system.
The CX-90 PHEV combines a petrol engine and electric motor to produce 323 horsepower.
It delivers significantly lower emissions and an electric-only range of 42 kilometres.
This setup appeals to buyers seeking reduced fuel costs and cleaner driving.
Technology and Interior Features
The Nautilus focuses on luxury and convenience.
It features an 11.1-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, navigation, and a 10-speaker audio system.
Memory seats, adaptive cruise control, and a 360-degree camera come standard.
Lincoln clearly prioritises driver comfort and premium finishes.
Mazda counters with a 12.3-inch infotainment display and a minimalist interior design.
It includes wireless smartphone integration, heated seats, and three-zone climate control.
While less lavish, the CX-90 PHEV offers strong value through technology and versatility.
Safety and Warranty Coverage
Neither model has completed full crash testing for the 2026 cycle.
However, both offer comprehensive safety suites.
The Nautilus includes eight airbags, while the CX-90 PHEV comes with ten airbags.
Lincoln provides a 48-month comprehensive warranty and 72-month powertrain coverage.
Mazda’s plug-in hybrid benefits from extended battery protection of up to 96 months.
Which SUV Makes More Sense?
The Lincoln Nautilus suits buyers who prioritise comfort, simplicity, and premium driving feel.
It works best for smaller families and urban professionals.
The Mazda CX-90 PHEV stands out for efficiency, seating flexibility, and lower emissions.
It offers stronger long-term value for larger households and eco-conscious drivers.
Ultimately, the better choice depends on lifestyle needs rather than outright performance.
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