The latest Lincoln continues the much-appreciated practice of dropping the confusing naming convention. The 2019 Nautilus replaces the MKX.
Not only is the name new, much of the vehicle has been upgraded as well.
In addition to extensive plastic surgery, the five-passenger, mid-size luxury crossover gets a new drivetrain, updated technology and a suite of standard safety features.
The replacement for the best-selling Lincoln in the land, comes in two trim levels — Select and Reserve, at $52,450 and $57,350 respectively, including shipping.
Our neighbours to the south get two additional models, one at either end of the trim ladder. They also get a front-drive version, while all-wheel-drive will be standard here.
Everything from the A-pillars forward has been redesigned. The Lincoln signature mesh grill, first shown on the Continental, strikes you first. From there on back, through the fenders and hood you will notice a more rounded look. There is a strong similarity to the outgoing model, but a more refined one.
Should you approach at night, you will be greeted with what the company calls “signature Lincoln lighting” from the outside and then once the door is opened.
The interior has been upgraded as well with the high-end materials and finish expected of a luxury vehicle. Thanks to new seats, the 2019 Nautilus boasts more head and legroom, best in class according to Lincoln.
One option sure to garner interest from those with back problems — Ultra Comfort seats. Orthopaedic surgeons were consulted during the design to ensure the seats help reduce fatigue during long drives. They seats can be adjusted up to 22 ways.
The centre stack is dominated by a large colour touchscreen to control the Sync3 infotainment system compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A wireless smartphone charging pad is also available. The new Nautilus comes with a standard embedded 4G modem with Wi-Fi hotspot capability.
Push buttons for the transmission are located to the left of the control screen, and the driver faces a 31-cm configurable digital instrument cluster
The 2019 Nautilus introduces Lincoln Co-Pilot360, a suite of safety features bundled into a single package rather than offered individually as options. It uses cameras and radar to monitor activity to the front, sides and rear of the vehicle.
Co-Pilot360 will be standard on all trim levels. It includes blind spot detection with cross-traffic alert, automatic high beams, backup camera, and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection.
There are two turbocharged engines for the new Nautilus, a 245-horsepower four-cylinder and a 335-horsepower, 2.7-litre V6.
Both are mated to a new eight-speed automatic transmission, with different gearing for each engine. An automatic start/stop system is standard on both engines.
The base, front-drive, four-cylinder Nautilus offered in the U.S. has a nine-speed automatic transmission.
Built in Oakville, Ont., the 2019 Lincoln Nautilus replaces the current MKX. It has a new four-cylinder engine, a new transmission, a suite of standard safety features and the most interior space in the class.
That should be enough for it to maintain its status within the crowded luxury crossover segment.
The specs
- Model: 2019 Lincoln Nautilus
- Engine: Turbocharged, 2.0-litre, four-cylinder, 250 horsepower, 280 lb.-ft. of torque; or turbocharged 2.7-litre V6, 335 horsepower, 380 lb.-ft. of torque
- Transmission: Eight-speed automatic, full-time AWD
- NRCan rating (litres/100km city/highway): 11.2 / 9.4 (2.0 engine), 13.0 / 8.7 (2.7 engine)
- Length: 4,826 mm
- Width: 2,187 mm
- Wheelbase: 2,850 mm
- Weight: 1,957 kg
- Price: $52,450-$57,350, plus freight
