A mid-size two-row SUV is not something we see too often nowadays. Especially not as the standard layout, and even less likely in the premium segment. The 2023 Lincoln Nautilus is one of those vehicles. For fans that still struggle with new nameplates, that is an old MKX. The new nomenclature is there to make things simple. So, the new Nautilus will be positioned between a larger three-row Aviator (MKT), and the compact luxury SUV Corsair (MKC).
The Lincoln Nautilus is on the market since 2019. Of all renames and replaces, the MKX suffered the least changes. So, the 2023 Lincoln Nautilus redesign is there to introduce an all-new vehicle. First of all, exterior changes will make it more appealing. Inside, the SUV is getting a fresh look and modern features. There won’t be big changes under the hood. We might see a hybrid configuration, but this is not a top priority.
Engines and Specs
The 2023 Lincoln Nautilus will be equipped with a couple of potent four-pot engines. Buyers can choose between a 2.0-liter and 2.7-liter displacement. In both cases, you won’t make a mistake. And don’t worry – those two are delivering exceptional ride. You won’t regret choosing a turbo-four instead of a V6.
The base configuration is getting a 2.0-l turbocharged four-pot unit with 250 horsepower. It also adds 280 pound-feet of torque. That is enough for such a vehicle, having in mind it is not a three-row model. The gas mileage is pretty good. Still, after the redesign and further tuning, the new Nautilus could make it even better than 21/26 mpg from the current version. You can also opt for the AWD instead of front-wheel drive. An eight-speed automatic transmission is a power router.
A 2.7-liter engine is going to deliver 335 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. This one is exclusive for the 2023 Lincoln Nautilus Black Label, the most luxurious trim level in the lineup. In this case, all-wheel drive is standard and the gas mileage suffers a bit. The new Nautilus is not going to improve the towing capacity. Expect the SUV with 3,500 pounds of hauling potential. Compared to the three-row Aviator, it is really weak. Max towing capacity of the three-row SUV is 6,700 pounds with a mighty PHEV setup, or 5,600 lbs if you stick to the conventional configuration.
2023 Lincoln Nautilus Hybrid
After the redesign, we might see another engine in the lineup. The favorite is the hybrid system since Ford and Lincoln are electrifying most of their products. Similar vehicles are already available with such configurations, but the closest sibling, Ford Edge, is still sticking to the classic setup. At this point, we don’t have any info about the 2023 Lincoln Nautilus hybrid configuration, and what kind of an engine it could use. The Aviator three-row SUV is available with a plug-in system that cracks 500 hp. Nautilus is not going to be so powerful, but more likely more efficient, with the focus on the gas mileage.
2023 Lincoln Nautilus Redesign
So, everything is ready for the all-new SUV. This is the biggest change since 2020 when the Nautilus replaced the MKX. Now, it is time for more serious changes, outside and inside. The 2023 Lincoln Nautilus is going to copy some of the solutions from other luxury SUVs. Outside, the company is using a standard architecture and it will be enough for this update.
The interior should introduce more. Modern dash with plenty of digital screens, most working on a touch, upgraded safety, and special themes for the Black Label trim are certain for this model. Being a two-row model allows designers to use space rationally, so there is plenty of room for passengers and cargo. The new Nautilus might be slightly longer, which will be welcome. Smartphone connectivity is also a key. Ford is a leader in this segment, with all the leading apps coming standard on their vehicles.
2023 Lincoln Nautilus Black Label
The top of the range version for most Lincoln vehicles is Black Label. So it is with Nautilus. We already mentioned a more powerful engine as one of the most important upgrades. But, that is not all. For around $70,000, you will also get an all-wheel drive and adaptive suspension. The difference in the ride is obvious, even with 21-inch wheels. Flight and Chalet were interior themes available for the SUV, but the 2023 Lincoln Nautilus should introduce new packages. Well, some other premium models will also revisit those Black Label themes. Advanced safety and premium audio are also making things look even more luxurious.
Pricing
The 2023 Lincoln Nautilus Black Label is the most expensive version. But, the base model is available at $44,000, which is more than affordable for the mid-size premium SUV. The redesign will make the price go up. The mid-range versions add about $5,000-$6,000 in features, such as premium leather seats with heating, panoramic sunroof, and wireless charging.