Lincoln Nautilus Towing Capacity

 

Lincoln Nautilus towing ratings fall into two eras. The redesigned 2024-2025 models are rated to tow up to 1,750 lbs with a dealer‑installed Class I Trailer Tow Package. Earlier 2019-2023 models can tow up to 3,500 lbs when properly equipped with the factory Class II Trailer Tow Package (53G) and required Cargo Utility Package (51U); without those packages, their base limits are lower. Always verify equipment on the specific vehicle.

2026-2024 Nautilus (redesign): Max 1,750 lbs

  • Rating: Up to 1,750 lbs when equipped with the dealer‑installed Class I Trailer Tow Package. Lincoln does not offer factory‑installed towing hardware on these model years.

  • Engines covered: Applies to both the 2.0L turbo AWD and the 2.0L hybrid AWD powertrains.

  • Frontal area limit: Lincoln specifies a 20 sq. ft. maximum trailer frontal area with the approved receiver hitch.

  • Spec confirmation: Lincoln's tech specs list "towing capability 1,750 lbs" with the available trailer tow package on 2024. 

2019-2023 Nautilus (first generation): Max 3,500 lbs when properly equipped

These model years share the same underlying ratings and equipment requirements.

  • Without tow package (base limits):

    • 2.0L I‑4: 1,500 lbs maximum.

    • 2.7L V6: 2,000 lbs maximum.
      Lincoln also limits trailer frontal area to 20 sq. ft. without the tow package. 

  • With Class II Trailer Tow Package (53G) + Cargo Utility Package (51U):

    • Both engines: Up to 3,500 lbs maximum loaded trailer weight.

    • Frontal area limit increases to 30 sq. ft.

    • Package content includes a hitch receiver, 4‑pin wiring, and Trailer Sway Control.

  • Documented in multiple sources:
    Lincoln's 2019 owner's manual prints the full table (1,500 / 2,000 base; 3,500 with package). The 2020 owner's manual repeats the same table. Lincoln's 2021 tech specs state "tow up to 3,500 lbs" with the Class II package, and the 2022 and 2023 towing guides show the same engine‑by‑engine limits and required packages. Edmunds also lists 1,500 lbs for a 2023 base configuration, and dealer research pages note 2,000 lbs standard on 2020. 

Quick reference

  • 2026-2024: Up to 1,750 lbs (dealer‑installed Class I package; no factory tow hardware).

  • 2023-2019:

    • Base (no 53G): 2.0L 1,500 lbs; 2.7L 2,000 lbs.

    • With 53G + 51U: 3,500 lbs.

    • Frontal area limits: 20 sq. ft. base, 30 sq. ft. with 53G.

Towing notes & best practices

  • Ratings assume a properly equipped vehicle, a 150‑lb driver and passenger, and compliance with load limits; never exceed the door‑jamb payload label. Some states require electric trailer brakes above certain weights; Lincoln warns not to tow an electric‑brake trailer unless a compatible controller is installed.

  • Tongue weight guidance: Lincoln recommends about 10-15% of trailer weight on the tongue.

Conclusion
If you're considering towing with a Nautilus, the key difference is model year: the 2019-2023 SUVs can reach 3,500 lbs when outfitted with the factory Class II (53G) and Cargo Utility (51U) packages, while the 2024-2025 redesign is capped at 1,750 lbs with a dealer‑installed Class I package. For the most accurate figure on a specific vehicle, check the door‑jamb labels and confirm installed packages and hitch equipment. Jim Burke Lincoln can inspect your SUV, verify equipment, and supply the correct towing hardware and wiring.