When you’re shopping for a midsize luxury SUV, you’re usually weighing tech, comfort, and how fresh the overall design feels. For 2026, the Lincoln Nautilus doubles down on high-end features and a few smart updates, while the Cadillac XT5 waits for a bigger refresh in 2027. What are the pros and cons of the Lincoln Nautilus vs Cadillac XT5 in 2026? Find out below!
Key Takeaways
- The 2026 Lincoln Nautilus starts at $55,535, while the XT5 comes in a little lower, starting at $45,795, as of September 4, 2025.
- Lincoln adds BlueCruise 1.5 hands-free lane-change, new colors, and a Jet Package now available across all trims.
- The Nautilus interior comes with superior luxury features like Rejuvenate spa mode, 28-speaker audio, and 24-way seats.
Lincoln Nautilus vs Cadillac XT5 Pricing and Updates for 2026
For the Naultius, BlueCruise 1.5 now allows hands-free lane changes. New color options inside and out add variety, and the Jet Package, with its blacked-out trim and special 22-inch wheels, is now available across all trims. The Black Label model also introduces a new Aurora interior theme.
Here’s how the Nautilus trims stack up price-wise:
- Premiere: $55,535
- Reserve: $64,775
- Black Label: $78,725
The XT5 model isn’t due for a big overhaul until 2027, so 2026 will likely be a straight carryover. Pricing remains competitive, though:
- Luxury: $45,795
- Premium Luxury: $54,395
- Sport: $63,585
2026 Lincoln Nautilus vs Cadillac XT5 Engines and Fuel Economy
Every Nautilus comes with a 250-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four and standard all-wheel drive. Paired with an eight-speed automatic, it’s quiet and well-suited for everyday driving.
Cadillac buyers get two engine choices. The base XT5 runs with a 235-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, while a more powerful 310-hp 3.6-liter V6 is optional. Both engines pair with a 9-speed automatic, and you can choose between front-wheel or all-wheel drive.
2026 Lincoln Nautilus vs Cadillac XT5 Interior Creature Comforts
Here, Lincoln really puts its best foot forward. The Nautilus sets the tone with leather, ambient lighting, and oversized displays that immediately feel more modern than what Cadillac offers in the XT5. Lincoln’s Rejuvenate feature turns the SUV into a mini spa with massaging seats, customizable lighting, and relaxing scents like cashmere or fresh linen.
For audiophiles, the 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D system is one of the best you’ll find in the segment. Add in 24-way adjustable seats, high-end trim options, and unique themes like the new Redwood interior, and the Nautilus feels like a higher-level experience.
The XT5, by contrast, shows its age. The overall design feels dated, and cabin materials don’t quite live up to luxury expectations. The first row is comfortable, and the second has decent legroom for taller passengers, though headroom is tighter.
In This Battle of Luxury Brands, Lincoln Clearly Takes the Lead
The Cadillac XT5 holds steady, but it’s clearly in a holding pattern until its redesign. The Lincoln Nautilus, meanwhile, offers a much fresher package for 2026. If you’re choosing between the two today, the Nautilus feels like the SUV that’s actually moving the game forward. Cogswell Motors is here when you're ready to take a test drive!