Lincoln replaced the MKX with the Nautilus in 2019 and now, at the three-model year mark, the SUV is undergoing a refresh that aims to up the ante on the elegance inside the two-row midsize SUV.
“Nautilus plays a critical role in bringing new clients to the brand, especially those who are looking for the flexibility of a larger midsize SUV and appreciate the luxurious features and design that set Lincoln apart,” said Michael Sprague, North America director, Lincoln. “The intent for the new Nautilus was refinement, rounding out our distinct lineup of SUVs – truly creating sanctuary.”
The Nautilus now offers the largest infotainment screen in its segment.Photo courtesy of Lincoln Motor Company
The new interior is designed to draw the eye side-to-side, emphasizing the wide proportions of the SUV. At the center of the dashboard is a 13.2-inch infotainment screen, the largest available across the Lincoln lineup and the largest in its segment. Below that are the SUV’s piano key shifters, a feature carried over from the Lincoln Navigator.
The screen is the home to the SYNC 4 operating system, making the Nautilus the first Lincoln vehicle to adopt the tech. Phone is Key comes to the SUV as well, a technology Hyundai has also marketed this year that allows drivers to use their phones to start and drive the vehicle for a designated period of time, without the physical key present.
SYNC 4 will operate with a Lincoln-exclusive Constellation appearance theme that is inspired by the night sky. The scheme features blue tones with pops of orange.
The system allows for wireless communications and over-the-air updates. SiriusXM with 360L and a digital owner’s manual are offered as well.
Lincoln is giving buyers an additional Black Label themes to choose from for 2021 – Flight. It joins Chalet, Thoroughbred, and Gala in the Black Label theme lineup.
Buyers are able to get their 2021 Nautilus with the new Sandstone color family inside, featuring high color contrasts from light to dark. The Black Ebony interior returns for 2021, but with added Roast accents on the seats, doors, and console armrests.
Lincoln has refreshed the Nautilus’s exterior color options as well. Asher Gray is a new choice and is available with the Monochromatic Package. Green Gem and Lincoln Flight Blue round out the new paint options.
Lincoln will continue to offer the Nautilus with a 335-horspower, twin-turbocharged 2.7-liter V6 or a standard 250-horsepower, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Lincoln Co-Pilot360 comes standard on the SUV and Lincoln Co-Pilot360 Plus is available. The Plus version adds a 360-degree camera with front sensing system, adaptive cruise control with lane centering, distance alert, enhanced part assist, and evasive steering. This technology is the rebranded version of Ford’s Co-Pilot360 tech.
Nautilus will continue to be built in Oakville, Ontario, for North America and will arrive in dealerships in early 2021.
