In 2019, Lincoln dropped the MKX name and rebadged it as the Nautilus crossover. This also came with a redesign that cleaned up the Lincoln design language and added more space between it and its Ford Edge donor car. In 2021, Lincoln refreshed the Nautilus, and we expect no changes when the 2022 Nautilus arrives.
In 2020, the Nautilus received a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it refresh on the front end. Given it was just a year removed from its debut, this isn’t a bad thing. Otherwise, the Lincoln Nautilus is the same as its been since its 2020 arrival. We expect it to remain a carryover and look the same once the 2022 Nautilus arrives.
While the 2021 Nautilus’ exterior refresh was mild, the interior changes made it virtually unrecognizable – in a good way. Gone was the dated in-dash touchscreen and chunky Ford Edge-based instrument panel and in came a massive 12.3-inch dash-top touchscreen and a thin, floating dash that looks far more luxurious. It also gained a new four-spoke steering wheel and tasteful gloss-black accents. We expect this striking new interior to remain the same in the 2022 Nautilus.
Powering the current Nautulis are two engine options, starting with the standard 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that pumps out 250 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. Optionally, buyers can upgrade to the twin-turbo 2.7-liter V6 that spins out 335 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque. Both engines pair with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The current Nautilus received “Good” scores in all IIHS crash tests, but its “Poor” headlight tests left it out of Top Safety Pick contention. Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitors, and active lane control are all standard. Buyers can opt for a surround-view camera, adaptive cruise control, steering assist for evasive maneuvers, and automatic parking. We expect the safety ratings and features to remain the same in the 2022 Nautilus.
