2025 Lincoln Nautilus vs 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
2025 Lincoln Nautilus vs. 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class: A Comprehensive Comparison
The 2025 Lincoln Nautilus and the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class are two luxury midsize SUVs that cater to buyers looking for premium comfort, cutting-edge technology, and refined performance. The Nautilus impresses with its digital-forward cabin and smooth ride, while the GLC-Class delivers sporty handling and a prestigious German luxury experience. This comparison highlights key differences in pricing, performance, interior design, and technology.
Pricing and MSRP
The 2025 Lincoln Nautilus starts at approximately $52,000 for the Premiere trim, with the Reserve trim priced around $58,000. The top-tier Black Label trim exceeds $75,000, offering exclusive interior themes and concierge services.
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class starts at a higher base price of around $49,900 for the GLC 300. The AMG GLC 43 model, featuring a sportier performance package, starts above $65,000, while the top AMG GLC 63 trims exceed $75,000.
Trim Levels
The Nautilus is available in three trims: Premiere, Reserve, and Black Label. The Premiere trim includes Lincoln’s 48-inch digital display and Co-Pilot360 driver assistance. The Reserve trim adds premium materials and upgraded technology, while the Black Label trim offers exclusive luxury enhancements.
The GLC-Class offers two main trims: the standard GLC 300 and the AMG GLC 43. The GLC 300 focuses on luxury, while the AMG trims cater to performance-oriented buyers.
Engine and Transmission
The Nautilus comes with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. A hybrid model boosts power to 310 horsepower.
The GLC 300 is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a mild-hybrid system, producing 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The AMG GLC 43 adds a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with 416 horsepower for sportier performance.
Performance
The Nautilus is tuned for comfort, featuring an adaptive suspension for a smooth and refined ride. The hybrid variant offers additional power and improved efficiency.
The GLC-Class offers a more dynamic driving experience, with responsive handling and a performance-oriented suspension, particularly in the AMG models.
Fuel Economy
The Nautilus achieves an estimated 21 mpg city and 29 mpg highway with its base engine. The hybrid model is expected to improve these numbers.
The GLC 300 provides approximately 23 mpg city and 31 mpg highway, making it slightly more efficient than the Nautilus’ base model.
Cargo Space
The Nautilus provides 36.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to 71.3 cubic feet with the seats folded.
The GLC-Class offers less space, with 21.9 cubic feet behind the second row and 59.3 cubic feet with the seats folded.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Nautilus features a 48-inch panoramic digital display, an 11.1-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an available Revel premium audio system.
The GLC-Class includes the Mercedes-Benz MBUX infotainment system, a 11.9-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an available Burmester premium sound system.
Technology
The Nautilus offers Lincoln Co-Pilot360 with hands-free highway driving via BlueCruise, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist.
The GLC-Class includes a variety of driver-assistance technologies, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and semi-autonomous driving features.
Safety
Both SUVs are equipped with advanced safety systems, including automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Nautilus adds hands-free driving with BlueCruise, while the GLC-Class offers Mercedes’ advanced semi-autonomous driving features.
Warranty
Lincoln provides a 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty and a 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty, with complimentary maintenance for four years or 50,000 miles.
Mercedes-Benz offers a 4-year/50,000-mile basic and powertrain warranty, but does not include complimentary maintenance.
Conclusion
The 2025 Lincoln Nautilus and Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class offer luxury in different ways. The Nautilus stands out with its high-tech digital dashboard, smooth ride, and spacious cargo capacity, making it a strong choice for buyers who prioritize comfort and cutting-edge technology.
The GLC-Class, with its sportier performance, German engineering, and semi-autonomous features, appeals to those seeking a more dynamic driving experience. If you prefer high-tech features and a comfortable ride, the Nautilus is the better choice. If sporty performance and European luxury are your priorities, the GLC-Class is a great alternative.