The current version of this mid-size crossover has been around for just a little bit more than a year, so it’s no wonder that no one expects to see any particular changes for the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus. We count on a familiar design, which has been introduced in 2019, but which is essentially the same as the design of MKX, which debuted a couple of years before it took a new nameplate and received a new styling. In any case, it is still early for a complete overhaul, despite the rumors.
The interesting thing about the Nautilus is that it is actually a pretty rational choice, despite we are talking about a premium crossover. This model stands out with an attractive price, quality interior and a long list of standard features. It delivers a smooth and pretty refined drive and feels like a real family car. On the other side, it isn’t as funny to drive as most rivals and doesn’t come in some super-capable sporty version, which is something you would expect from a premium model.
2021 Lincoln Nautilus Design
In terms of base design characteristics, we won’t see changes in the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus. This is a quite fresh model, which debuted in 2019 with the completely new styling. Mechanically, we can’t say this was an all-new model. Things are pretty much the same as in the last-generation MKX, which debuted just a couple of years earlier. Simply, the company just wanted to synchronize its lineup, so the Nautilus is actually more like a refreshed MKX than a new model.
Still, that doesn’t change the fact that we are talking about a crossover that has a lot to offer, particularly when you look at the balance between price and the quality you get in return. Still, there are a couple of drawbacks that are the reason why this crossover can’t be in the same batch as models like BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE etc. The main reason lays in the fact that we are talking about the model that is based on Ford Edge, which isn’t particularly fun to drive. After all, it features FWD layout, while most rivals have all of their power on the rear axle.
In any case, the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus will remain a reasonable choice among premium brands and we probably won’t see any particular change.
2021 Lincoln Nautilus Interior
The same thing goes for interior design. While the exterior was completely changed with the arrival of Nautilus nameplate, the cabin remained pretty much the same. We can say it looks a little bit bland compared to competitors, but that doesn’t change the fact that the overall quality is pretty good.
On the other side, the cabin is very spacious and offers great comfort in both rows. Besides comfortable seats and plenty of legroom, it features excellent sound insulation, so things are pretty quiet at high speeds. When it comes to the cargo area, things are pretty typical for the class. You may count on about 37 cubic feet behind the rear seat, while the overall cargo space goes up to 69 cubic feet.
Features
Novelties in terms of standard equipment are always expected, but the current model already comes with a pretty decent list of standard equipment. All models come with things like an 8-inch touch screen, an 11-speaker audio system, satellite radio, Bluetooth, a Wi-Fi hot spot, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, dual-zone climate control etc. In higher trims, you can also get navigation, panoramic sunroof, a rear-seat entertainment system, a 13- or 19-speaker Revel audio system, HD Radio, wireless device charging etc.
The list of standard safety features includes things like rearview camera, rear parking sensors, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, and automatic emergency braking, but the list could be expanded for the next year. Some of the potential candidates are currently-optional features like front parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, evasive steering assist etc.
2021 Lincoln Nautilus Engines
When it comes to the powertrain, we are pretty sure that the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus will continue with two familiar engines in the offer. Base models will carry on with a smaller 2.0-liter turbo-four, which is good for about 250 horsepower. That’s more than enough for a daily driver, especially if you consider that fuel economy goes around 21 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.
If you want something more powerful, there is a 2.7-liter V6, which delivers around 335 horsepower. However, this engine is also thirstier and returns 2 mpg less in the city, compared to the base unit.
2021 Lincoln Nautilus Release Date and Price
We expect to see 2021 Lincoln Nautilus sometime late in the year. The current model starts at around 41.000 dollars and we don’t expect bigger changes in the future.