​1%20(1).pngWhen you shop luxury SUVs around Henderson or Las Vegas, you want more than a badge; you want a quiet retreat from I 515 and Strip traffic. Both the Nautilus and RX 350 deliver comfort, yet many of our guests discover the 2025 Lincoln Nautilus lines up better with their need for space, tech, and a calm ride.

In the 2025 Lincoln Nautilus vs. 2026 Lexus RX 350 matchup, the Nautilus stands out for its quieter ride, larger cargo space, and standout tech, while the RX 350 answers with stronger resale value and slightly quicker performance.

Our team at Lincoln of Henderson has guided local drivers through this exact comparison for years, so we can explain how each SUV behaves in real Nevada commutes and summer heat. From here, we break down performance, comfort, space, safety, and ownership costs so you can see where the Nautilus leads and where the RX 350 still makes sense.

Comparison Highlights: Lincoln Nautilus vs. Lexus RX 350

  • 8.4 cubic feet more cargo space behind the rear seats in the Nautilus. You get 37.2 cu ft vs. the RX 350’s 29.6, which makes hauling gear, groceries, or luggage far easier.
     
  • 22.2 cubic feet more max cargo volume. The Nautilus opens up to 68.8 cu ft, while the RX 350 tops out at 46.6. Families and active drivers immediately feel the difference.
     
  • 2.2 inches more rear legroom for second-row passengers. The Nautilus offers 39.6 inches, giving adults and teens more stretch-out comfort on Las Vegas and Henderson drives.
     
  • Available 24-way Perfect Position seats with massage. Lexus does not offer a comparable feature on the RX 350, which makes the Nautilus a comfort leader in daily commuting.
     
  • Full-width 48-inch panoramic display exclusive to the Nautilus. It delivers a more immersive, tech-forward cabin experience than the RX 350’s 14-inch screen.
     
  • Hands-free highway driving with ActiveGlide. The RX 350 does not offer a hands-free system, giving the Nautilus a major edge for long Nevada highway trips.

Driving Experience: 2025 Lincoln Nautilus vs. 2026 Lexus RX 350

Driving Experience

2025 Lincoln Nautilus

2026 Lexus RX 350

Dealership Notes 

Ride Quality

Very smooth and quiet. Adaptive suspension filters bumps well and feels relaxing on long drives.

Composed and refined. Feels slightly firmer but controlled at higher speeds.

Nautilus delivers a softer, calmer ride that many Henderson and Las Vegas commuters prefer.

Steering Feel

Light, easy to maneuver, comfort-tuned.

Light and precise with better body control.

Nautilus shines in parking lots. RX feels more controlled on curves.

Cabin Noise

Extremely quiet thanks to active noise cancellation.

Whisper-quiet but not as isolated as the Nautilus.

Nautilus provides a more “sanctuary-like” cabin on I-515 and 215 drives.

Driving Modes

Normal, Conserve, Excite, Slippery, Deep Conditions.

Normal, Eco, Sport, Sport+, Custom.

Nautilus modes favor comfort. RX adds a mild sporty edge but never feels performance-focused.

Highway Confidence

Stable and gentle with some float on dips.

Confident and planted at speed.

Comfort-first drivers lean Nautilus. Drivers wanting firmness lean RX.

The Nautilus sets itself apart with a calmer, more insulated feel that stands out on long stretches of I 515 and Summerlin Parkway traffic. Both models are built for comfort, but the Lincoln’s tuning creates a more relaxed rhythm that many Nevada drivers appreciate once they settle in. You end up with an SUV that feels quiet, steady, and unhurried, especially when Las Vegas roads heat up in the summer.

The RX offers a firmer, more controlled feel, yet the Nautilus builds its advantage through its light steering, smoother damping, and quieter cabin, which make daily drives feel easier. Drivers who value a softer and more forgiving ride tend to gravitate toward the Lincoln because it doesn’t rush the experience. In the matchup of 2025 Lincoln Nautilus vs. 2026 Lexus RX 350, comfort-focused shoppers usually feel more at home in the Nautilus.

 

Performance Comparison: Lincoln Nautilus vs. Lexus RX 350

Performance

2025 Lincoln Nautilus

2026 Lexus RX 350

Dealership Notes  

Engine Output

2.0L turbo I4 with 250 hp and 280 lb-ft. Hybrid available at 310 hp.

2.4L turbo I4 with 275 hp and 317 lb-ft.

RX accelerates quicker. Nautilus hybrid adds smooth low-end torque.

0–60 Acceleration

Estimated 7.3 seconds (gas). Hybrid approx. 6.8–7.0 seconds.

Estimated 6.7 seconds.

RX is quicker on paper. Daily driving difference is small in city traffic.

Transmission

8-speed automatic tuned for smoothness.

8-speed automatic tuned for crisp shifts.

Nautilus focuses on comfort. RX feels sharper when pushed.

Fuel Economy

Estimated 21/29/24 mpg (FWD). Hybrid up to 22/28/24.

Estimated 22/29/25 mpg (FWD).

RX has a small mpg advantage. Nautilus hybrid narrows the gap.

Handling

Light steering, noticeable body roll.

Better body control and tighter turn-in.

RX feels sportier. Nautilus remains plush and relaxed.

The RX 350 edges out the Nautilus in raw power, yet the Lincoln counters with a driving character built around smooth response and calm refinement. It keeps acceleration predictable and controlled, especially in stop-and-go Las Vegas traffic where quick bursts of power matter far less than smooth shifts and steady low-speed behavior. The hybrid Nautilus adds extra torque that helps the Lincoln feel strong when merging or overtaking.

Both SUVs feel capable, but their personalities differ. The Nautilus focuses on effortless cruising and makes its performance feel easy rather than aggressive, which fits well with longer Nevada highway stretches. For many shoppers comparing the 2025 Lincoln Nautilus vs. 2026 Lexus RX 350, that smoother approach becomes a deciding factor because it keeps daily driving relaxed.

Interior Space and Comfort: 2025 Lincoln Nautilus vs. 2026 Lexus RX 350

Interior Space & Comfort

2025 Lincoln Nautilus

2026 Lexus RX 350

Dealership Notes  

Rear Legroom

39.6 inches

37.4 inches

Nautilus gives passengers more room to stretch, which families appreciate.

Cargo Behind Rear Seats

37.2 cu ft

29.6 cu ft

Nautilus offers a major advantage for gear, luggage, and weekly errands.

Max Cargo Volume

68.8 cu ft

46.6 cu ft

One of the Nautilus’ biggest wins. Nearly 22 cu ft more total room.

Seat Comfort

Available 24-way Perfect Position seats with massage.

Heated and ventilated seats, no massage option.

Nautilus leads for long-trip comfort across Nevada highways.

Cabin Design

Full-width 48-inch panoramic display with modern layout.

Premium materials with a clean 14-inch touchscreen.

Lincoln feels futuristic. Lexus leans classic luxury.

Tech Features

Wireless CarPlay/Android Auto, Phone As A Key, Digital Scent.

Lexus Interface, cloud nav, Mark Levinson audio.

Both strong systems. Nautilus tech is more visually striking.

 

This is the area where the Nautilus creates its biggest separation. It offers more room to stretch, more space for weekend trips, and a cabin designed to feel like a personal retreat during long Henderson or Las Vegas commutes. The panoramic display and available massage seats create a modern environment that feels both tech-forward and soothing at the same time.

The RX brings excellent craftsmanship and cohesive design, but its smaller interior and cargo space limit how flexible it feels for families or drivers who pack heavy. The Nautilus simply gives you more usable room and a more open atmosphere, which helps it stand out when shoppers weigh comfort over sportiness. When comparing the 2025 Lincoln Nautilus vs. 2026 Lexus RX 350, the Lincoln’s cabin experience becomes one of its strongest reasons to choose it.
 

Learn More About the 2025 Lincoln Nautilus!

Choosing between the 2025 Lincoln Nautilus and the 2026 Lexus RX 350 ultimately comes down to the type of drive you want every day. If you value a smoother ride, a quieter cabin, and significantly more interior space, the Nautilus consistently rises to the top—especially for life in and around Las Vegas and Henderson. Its advanced tech, serene ride quality, and thoughtful comfort features make it a standout choice for drivers who want their SUV to feel like a personal retreat.

If you're ready to explore the Nautilus in person or want guidance on which model best fits your lifestyle, our team is here to help. You can contact us online anytime to schedule a test drive, compare trims, or get personalized recommendations. Whether you're narrowing down your options or just starting your search, Lincoln of Henderson is committed to making your luxury SUV decision clear and confident.

 
Categories: Lincoln Nautilus