Two short years since Lincoln’s new mid-size luxury SUV was first introduced, replacing the MKX nameplate, the 2021 Nautilus gains new updates to separate it from the pack further. As Lincoln says, they’ve taken the best features from the flagship Navigator, best-selling compact Corsair, and new Aviator to improve what is already a well-designed premium hauler with arguably the best-handling characteristics in its class (based on this writer’s SUV comparison) courtesy of its optional 2.7L twin-turbocharged V6 making 335-hp and 380 lb.-ft. of torque (a 250-hp 2.0L turbo comes standard).
Bolder yet elegant new front grill
The Nautilus updates for 2021 aren’t extensive, but they’re worthy. The exterior gains a tweaked front grille redesign that appears bolder but without looking too aggressive; it looks more elegant now, flanked by LED lights. The new model finds more chrome coast-to-coast and is available in three clean colours—including the signature, aviation-influenced Flight Blue. Lincoln says these updates ensure the Nautilus is now more consistent with the other SUVs in the lineup.
Interior updates include more premium wood, an updated shifter, and the largest touchscreen in the Lincoln SUV lineup
Inside, expect more premium wood throughout, an updated Piano-key shifter, updated doors, and a 2-tone high-grade steering wheel. Overall, the horizontal design cues remain for 2021 — a theme the luxury brand says creates a sense of calm and serenity, mimicking the constellations.
This is all backed by a new partnership with the app Calm, which is part of Lincoln’s commitment to wellness. Ford says this collaboration with an app is a new frontier for the company and an industry-first. Paired with Matthew McConaughey’s chilled-out, relaxing commentary, they’re on the right path.
Three other big interior updates include the introduction of a 13.2-inch centre-stack screen — the most giant screen of any Lincoln SUV thus far — a more intuitive SYNC4 system featuring cloud-based updates, and a new searchable digital user’s manual replacing the thick manual collecting dust in the glovebox; the Nautilus’ digital manual is also a Lincoln SUV first. The new 2021 Lincoln Nautilus will arrive at dealerships early 2021.
Exterior and interior 2021 Lincoln Nautilus SUV photos:
