- No more V6; two turbocharged four-cylinder engines (one hybrid)
- New "main display" that spans the width of the dashboard
- Optional features include a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D Audio System
- Lincoln BlueCruise 1.2 promises superior functionality
- Arrives at dealers in early 2024
Lincoln has unveiled the all-new Nautilus, which arrives for MY2024 with striking exterior styling, new engines, and a beautifully finished interior filled to the brim with all the latest technological goodies. This isn't just a comprehensive facelift; Lincoln has gone back to the drawing board and returned with something that can give the Germans a true run for their money.
On the engine front, we bid farewell to the V6. A pair of turbocharged 2.0-liter engines are all that's on offer, with the base option producing a targeted 250 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque. This variant receives an eight-speed automatic transmission as standard. The new hybrid model also has a turbocharged four-pot but serves up a meatier 310 hp. Unfortunately, power is funneled through a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
Lincoln does not mention gas mileage but notes that the standard all-wheel-drive system with "light-weighting benefits" will deliver improved fuel economy compared to the outgoing model.
Lincoln Nails The Exterior Design
Design is subjective, but we think the Nautilus is one exquisitely-styled SUV. It's a huge improvement over its predecessor and manages to be both sleek and imposing at the same time. The sleek LED headlamps feature a slim front light bar that extends into the prominent grille, meeting at the illuminated Lincoln star.
The door handles have been mounted on the Lincoln's waistline, giving it a cleaner, uncluttered appearance when viewed from the side. At the rear, there are hints of the Audi Q8 in the taillights, but it somehow works here, and provides the SUV with an upmarket, fuss-free appearance - a rare thing in the current market, where everything appears overstyled.
With the optional Jet Appearance Package (pictured above) the Nautilus benefits from two-tone paintwork, stunning turbine-style 22-inch wheels, and anodized black exterior elements. Lincoln says this package will be available on all the trim levels.
And The Interior Doesn't Disappoint, Either
If you thought the exterior was appealing, then the cabin will bowl you over. Open the door and you're greeted by a gorgeous fascia, which manages to blend old-school luxury and cutting-edge tech beautifully. The new main display is undoubtedly the highlight of the front row and swoops across the top of the dashboard.
This large screen replaces the traditional instrument binnacle, combining it with several other displays, including navigation, weather, and several other functions. Naturally, it can be personalized to the driver's tastes. It works in tandem with the 11.1-inch central touchscreen and, on startup, delivers a superb sequence known as the "Lincoln Embrace."
The digital greeting starts in the center display and expands to the larger screen before flowing into the front and rear door panels.
Jam-Packed With Features
The steering wheel is a rather peculiar shape, with a flat top that Lincoln says provides the driver with a better view of the dials. That may be true, but it reminds us of the steering wheel fitted to the Austin Allegro, arguably one of the worst vehicles ever to leave the United Kingdom.
Standard features include dual-zone climate control, heated, ventilated, and power-operated front seats, a heated steering wheel, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and more. Optionally, buyers can specify the Lincoln Rejuvenate package. The automaker says this package is made up of "specially curated sensory experiences" that use screen visuals, lighting, massage options, and seating positions to let occupants relax.
This can be paired with Lincoln's carefully selected "digital scents," with three fragrances delivering a burst of upmarket aroma into the cabin. This includes Mystic Forest, described as a woody, earthy blend, and Violet Cashmere, a crisp and refined scent. This can be controlled via the infotainment system.
Speaking of infotainment, the Nautilus includes Alexa Built-In, which enables you to control various features with voice commands.
Comfort And Personalization Are Essential
Other available luxury features include the Revel Ultima 3D Audio System. An incredible 28 speakers are littered across the cabin, with Lincoln claiming it provides occupants with a "rich, multidimensional" listening experience. And if you're forking out the extra dough for this, you might as well specify the 24-way "Perfect Position" front seats, which provide occupants with a "concert-like experience" whilst on the move.
As we've seen with its other models, Lincoln loves an interior theme. Three choices are available, including Black Onyx and Medium Light Space Gary, Smoked Truffle, and Black Onyx and Allura Blue. The automaker claims the first theme promotes the feeling of airiness and space, while the second creates a cozy, relaxed environment. The final theme is exclusive to the Reserve model and is described as distinctive and refined - the true expression of a Lincoln motorcar.
Of course, a Lincoln needs to glide across the road with velvety smooth competence, and the Nautilus is no different.
BlueCruise Greatly Improved
Adaptive suspension ships standard and is equipped with various sensors that monitor the steering, acceleration, body movement, and braking activities. This presumably adjusts the ride according to the conditions, ensuring comfortable progress is unhindered by pesky bumps and undulations.
A total of five drive modes - normal, conserve, excite, slippery, and deep conditions - can be chosen from.
On the safety front, the new Nautilus impresses with myriad driver assistance systems, including active park assist, adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic braking, a 360-degree camera, and much more. The big news, however, comes in the form of Lincoln BlueCruise 1.2.
The automaker says customers can now enjoy hands-free lane changes performed when the driver simply taps the turn signal stalk. Incredibly, the Nautilus can even suggest a lane change when, for example, the vehicle is stuck behind slow-moving traffic.
The In-Lane Repositioning ability has been enhanced for a more natural feel. Lincoln says this can be felt when traveling next to larger vehicles, with the Nautilus now able to shift its position in the respective lane subtly.
Here's When The 2024 Nautilus Hits Dealers
As you'd expect for a modern luxury car, the Nautilus can receive over-the-air (OTA) updates, delivering upgrades to the car wirelessly and efficiently.
"The 2024 Nautilus will elevate our portfolio and offer our global clients an all-new, compelling SUV with connected experiences and features that make it just as fun to drive as it is to relax in," said Lincoln's president, Dianne Craig. Order books are already open, and customers can expect the latest Lincoln to hit dealerships in early 2024.
Pricing starts at $50,415 for the Premiere trim, and that's almost $6,000 more than the base 2023 model. The Reserve goes for $54,750 and the Black Label begins at $74,465. Adding the hybrid powertrain to all trims tacks on another $1,500.
Unlike its Canadian-built predecessor, the newcomer will be assembled at the Changan Hangzhou Assembly Plant in China.