The all-new Lincoln Nautilus, the representative mid-size SUV from Lincoln, was officially launched in South Korea last November.
The all-new Lincoln Nautilus is a completely redesigned model after its first launch in Korea in 2019, marking a significant transformation after four years. The name Nautilus comes from Latin, meaning ‘exploration,’ reflecting Lincoln’s brand strategy and direction. Through the all-new Lincoln Nautilus, Lincoln aims to redefine the concept of refuge and provide customers with a new level of digital experience.
The Nautilus has not been developed in a single moment; rather, it has a history of over 15 years, evolving continuously. Let’s explore the journey that Lincoln’s Nautilus model has undergone leading to the all-new Lincoln Nautilus.
The start of Nautilus heritage: 1st generation Lincoln MKX (2007-2015)
The Nautilus model is a facelift of the SUV model ‘MKX,’ which was launched in 2007. The MKX, which came as the successor to the Aviator, was first unveiled as a concept car at the 2004 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), and officially launched as Lincoln’s first crossover SUV in December 2006 as the 2007 model. The MKX shared the same CD3 platform as the Ford Edge, Ford Fusion, and Lincoln MKZ, all released in the same year.
The name MKX was initially referred to as ‘Mark-Ex’ by Lincoln brand executives at the 2006 auto show circuit before being changed to MKX. It experienced some legal issues due to its similarity to Acura’s model MDX.
The vehicle’s front features a chrome grille with projector beam headlamps and fog lights mounted below the front. The rear showcases a light bar that spans the rear, resembling the design of the newly unveiled all-new Nautilus.
A facelift occurred in 2011, with the most significant change being the grille, which was modified to a V-shape similar to that of the Lincoln MKZ sedan.
A more refined second-generation MKX (2016-2019)
The second-generation MKX was unveiled as a concept car at the 2014 Beijing Motor Show and officially debuted in the following year at NAIAS, starting sales as the 2016 model. It was first revealed in Asia at the 2015 Seoul Motor Show.
The front of the vehicle features the Lincoln signature split-wing grille, extending horizontally and elegantly complemented by modern and balanced aesthetics. Additionally, it was the first vehicle in the automotive industry to incorporate the high-end audio brand Revel’s Ultima audio system, enhancing its position as a luxury car.
The second-generation MKX was produced on the CD4 platform and was equipped with a 2.7L EcoBoost V6 engine.
In 2017, MKZ introduced a facelifted model with a new name instead of the existing MK naming, beginning sales as ‘Nautilus.’
1st Generation Nautilus (2019-2023)
The 1st generation Nautilus was first unveiled in 2017 and officially launched in 2019.
The overall exterior design incorporated elements from the previous Continental and Navigator styles. The front features a large rectangular grille adorned with Lincoln’s logo instead of the previous MKZ split-wing design. This grille style was also applied to other Lincoln SUV models.
The 2019 Nautilus replaced the 2018 V6 engine with a 2.0L EcoBoost gasoline twin-turbo I4 engine. It underwent various changes until the launch of the 2022 New Nautilus.
All-New Lincoln Nautilus (2024)
Last November, the all-new Lincoln Nautilus was launched in South Korea. This completely revamped model advances the brand’s core concept of ‘Quiet Flight’ into a more dynamic digital space. The signature horizontal design elements have been applied to its exterior, while the interior has been designed to offer various sensory satisfactions based on Lincoln’s latest technological capabilities. It boasts a fully redesigned horizontal instrument panel featuring an immersive 48-inch display, providing a new level of connectivity as the largest display in its class.
The all-new Lincoln Nautilus introduces the Lincoln Rejuvenate system. It allows adjustments not only for screen visuals but also for seat positions and massage options, transforming the vehicle into a personal space for relaxation and rejuvenation. The ‘digital scent’ that completes Lincoln Rejuvenate provides passengers with an immersive experience within the vehicle space. The all-new Lincoln Nautilus is equipped with one of Lincoln’s most beloved features, the Revel Ultima 3D audio system, delivering rich and immersive audio experiences.
The 2024 all-new Lincoln Nautilus features a 2.0L GTDi engine and an 8-speed automatic transmission, enabling more efficient and stable driving with an improved twin-turbo engine.
By Sang-jin Lee daedusj@autodiary.kr