Published by Rims & Tires
Compiled & checked by the site's publisher from manufacturer, NHTSA & USTMA data · Updated 2026-07-24
The Lincoln Nautilus is a mid-size luxury crossover, Lincoln's answer to the Acura MDX and Cadillac XT5. It replaced the Lincoln MKX with more premium positioning, standard AWD availability, and Black Label luxury packages. Tire selection should honor the Nautilus's quiet character. Road noise isolation is a primary differentiator for Lincoln buyers.
Lincoln Nautilus tire sizes
The 2019 to 2023 Nautilus uses 245/60R18 on the base Standard trim. The Reserve trim adds 245/50R20 as an option, and the top Black Label package uses 265/40R21. The redesigned 2024+ Nautilus moves to larger wheels: 255/60R19 or 255/55R20 (Premiere), 255/50R21 or 255/45R22 (Reserve), and 255/45R22 (Black Label).
Both FWD and AWD configurations use the same tire sizes for their respective wheel packages.
Best tires for the Lincoln Nautilus
Continental CrossContact LX25 (245/50R20): the top pick for the Nautilus. Quietest all-season in this size, with excellent wet scores, a 70,000-mile warranty, and a smooth highway ride. It's an outstanding match for the Nautilus's quiet character.
Michelin Defender2 (245/50R20): the long-life pick for the Nautilus — a touring all-season with an 80,000-mile warranty and wet braking that holds up well as the tire wears. A strong choice for high-mileage commuters.
Bridgestone Dueler H/L Alenza Plus: premium highway touring with Bridgestone OEM heritage. Very quiet, long-wearing, and smooth riding. Popular with Lincoln owners who value long-term refinement.
Michelin CrossClimate2 (245/50R20): for Nautilus owners who occasionally drive in winter weather. It carries the 3PMSF (three-peak mountain snowflake) rating, the U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association's severe-snow-service symbol, in the quiet, refined format the Nautilus demands.
Best Tires for the Lincoln Nautilus at a glance
| Tire | Size | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Continental CrossContact LX25 | 245/50R20 | the top pick for the Nautilus. Quietest all-season in this size, with excellent wet scores, a 70,000-mile warranty, and a smooth highway ride. It's an outstanding match for the Nautilus's quiet character. |
| Michelin Defender2 | 245/50R20 | the long-life pick for the Nautilus — a touring all-season with an 80,000-mile warranty and wet braking that holds up well as the tire wears. A strong choice for high-mileage commuters. |
| Bridgestone Dueler H/L Alenza Plus | Not specified | premium highway touring with Bridgestone OEM heritage. Very quiet, long-wearing, and smooth riding. Popular with Lincoln owners who value long-term refinement. |
| Michelin CrossClimate2 | 245/50R20 | for Nautilus owners who occasionally drive in winter weather. It carries the 3PMSF (three-peak mountain snowflake) rating, the U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association's severe-snow-service symbol, in the quiet, refined format the Nautilus demands. |
Frequently asked
What tire size does the Lincoln Nautilus use?
2019-2023: Standard 245/60R18; Reserve 245/60R18, 245/50R20, or 265/40R21; Black Label 265/40R21. 2024+: Premiere 255/60R19 or 255/55R20; Reserve 255/50R21 or 255/45R22; Black Label 255/45R22. Verify on the driver door sticker.
How much do Lincoln Nautilus tires cost?
245/50R20: $185 to $280 per tire. 265/40R21: $210 to $315 per tire. A full set of four on 20-inch wheels installed runs $740 to $1,120.
How do I know when my Nautilus needs new tires?
The penny test covers depth, and the cabin covers comfort, since a quiet Lincoln gets louder as the tread wears down. Watch for longer wet stops, uneven wear, and any cracking in the sidewall. If a tire that used to be silent starts humming, the tread is telling you.
Are premium tires worth it on the Nautilus?
On a Lincoln built for quiet, yes. Cheaper tires tend to be louder and wear faster, which chips away at the exact refinement you bought the car for. The premium and mid-premium tiers usually cost less per mile once you count the miles they last. A local shop can show you the choices that fit your wheels.
Keep reading
Last updated 2026-07-24. General guidance only — confirm specifics with a local shop for your exact vehicle.