The Lincoln Nautilus is one of the shiny new SUVs that are out on the market these days. Naturally, when a new model with so much promise comes out, a lot of people will be curious to see what it has to offer. That includes me, so I did what anybody in his right frame of mind would do. I jumped straight into the Nautilus’ new online configurator to do some work on my virtual SUV. The results, I can say, are intriguing enough that I wouldn’t be surprised if a lot of people are doing the same right now.

Part of what makes the Lincoln Nautilus appealing is that it looks like a vastly different SUV compared to the model it’s replacing, the MKX. The latter’s split grille has been ditched for a new one-piece honeycomb mesh grille. There’s also an abundance of chrome on the body of the SUV, and that’s on top of the model receiving a new lighting structure that gives it a more premium look. All these changes make for a great-looking SUV. With the online configurator in tow, let’s see how we can make it better.

The first order of business is to pick an engine, and I’m choosing the bigger and more potent 2.7-liter twin-turbo V-6 engine with 335 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque at its disposal. I’m also choosing an all-wheel-drive system just to be sure that I can maximize the SUV’s potential. From there, it’s time to choose the trim, and I’ve always been of the mindset that the trim that always offers the best value is the middle one. That means it’s the Nautilus Reserve for me, thank you very much.

2019 Lincoln Nautilus Prices

Picking a color for my virtual Nautilus isn’t easy. There are at least three colors that I like, but ultimately, I’m choosing the Iced Mocha paint color because it’s the one that gives the Nautilus that eye-catching detail without being over-the-top with it. I’m good with having to pay an extra $695 for it.

The next bit of business is picking the appropriate packages for my SUV. Obviously, there are plenty to choose from, but since my thinking in getting the Nautilus is to make it my everyday ride, I’m going all-out in giving it the packages I think are necessary to make for a great ride. That includes the Driver Assistance Package for $1,590, which comes with Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Stop-and-Go and Lane Centering, Adaptive Steering, and a Collision Mitigation System that includes Distance Alert/Distance Indication, Dynamic Brake Support, Evasive Steer Assist, Forward Collision Warning.

2019 Lincoln Nautilus Exterior Colors

I’m also getting the Technology Package for $1,720, largely because of the added safety features — Enhanced Active Park Assist, Front Park Aid Sensors, and 360-Degree Camera (includes rear camera wash) — it provides. Throw in the Ultimate Package for $4,160, as well. That’s getting me a set of 21-inch premium-painted, ultra-bright machined-aluminum wheels, and all-season Gen-2 tires. The package also comes with Dynamic LED signature lighting with cornering lamps, full LED multi-projector headlamps, and a Revel Ultima audio system with 19 speakers and HD Radio. I’m also adding the Cargo Utility Package for just $365. That Rear Cargo Management System sounds like something that’s going to come in handy.

2019 Lincoln Nautilus Packages

In line with what’s shaping up to be a caffeine-themed SUV, I’m dressing up the interior of my Nautilus in Coffee leather. I initially wanted Ebony and Terra Cotta leather, but that would mean changing the body color to Infinite Black, something that I’m not going to do. So Coffee leather it is. Either way, I’m still getting leather-trimmed front bucket seats with perforated inserts. Good enough for me. I was also drawn to the Espresso Ash Swirl interior trim, so it’s definitely a plus that I’m getting it with my choice of interior color. A big part of choosing the Nautilus Reserve trim also means that I’m getting an SUV that comes with the Revel Ultima System and its 19 speakers and HD radio. As someone who likes music, this system was a must-have for me.

2019 Lincoln Nautilus Options

All told, I like how my Lincoln Nautilus turned out. I’m paying a good chunk for it — $62,965, including $8,530 in options alone — but I think that you’re really going to have to set this SUV well if you want to become the model you envisioned. If that means paying a good chunk for extras and accessories, then so be it.

Further reading

Read our full review on the 2019 Lincoln Nautilus.

Read more Lincoln news.