2027 Lincoln MKX Release Date: Now the Nautilus – Lincoln discontinued the MKX nameplate after the 2018 model year and rebadged/refreshed the vehicle as the Lincoln Nautilus starting with the 2019 model year. The midsize luxury crossover that continues the MKX’s role in Lincoln’s U.S. lineup is the 2027 Nautilus, which received a mid-cycle refresh and is now available to order, with showroom arrivals expected in early 2027.
This article clarifies the name change for American shoppers still searching under the old MKX name and covers everything currently known about the 2027 Nautilus from official Lincoln sources and recent reporting.
What Happened to the Lincoln MKX?
Lincoln introduced the MKX in 2007 as its first crossover SUV, based on the Ford Edge platform. A second generation arrived for 2016. As part of Lincoln’s broader shift away from alphanumeric “MK” names toward more evocative traditional nameplates, the company renamed the vehicle Nautilus for the 2019 model year while applying a mid-cycle styling and feature update.
Production of the MKX ended after 2018. Any MKX you find for sale today is a used vehicle. The Nautilus has since become one of Lincoln’s strongest sellers in the United States, with the second-generation model (launched for 2024) built in China and the 2027 refresh continuing that lineage.
2027 Lincoln Nautilus Release Date
Lincoln revealed the refreshed 2027 Nautilus in mid-August 2026. Orders are open now, and the first vehicles are expected to arrive at U.S. dealerships in early 2027.
This timeline aligns with typical model-year transitions for the brand. Buyers who previously owned or shopped the MKX will find the Nautilus occupies the same midsize luxury two-row crossover segment.
What’s New for the 2027 Lincoln Nautilus?
The 2027 model receives a visual and interior refresh rather than a full redesign:
- Wider, more detailed grille with a bolder presence
- Redesigned hood and sculpted fenders for a more confident stance
- Updated signature lighting front and rear, including slimmer taillamps
- New wheel designs (19- to 22-inch options depending on trim)
- Jet Appearance Package with glossy black accents
- Two new exterior colors: Nocturnal Blue (available across trims) and Frosted Fig (Black Label exclusive)
- Expanded interior themes, including Afterglow on Premiere/Reserve and new Black Label themes (Eminent Hour and Elysian Light)
- Expanded Renew Package pairing Lincoln Rejuvenate wellness features with 24-way Perfect Position front seats that include massage
The signature 48-inch panoramic display, Google-based connectivity (with four years included), and standard BlueCruise 1.5 hands-free highway driving assist carry over. Four years of the Lincoln Security Package are also standard.
Pricing, Powertrains, and Availability
Pricing for the 2027 Nautilus is expected to start in the mid-$50,000 range (including destination), consistent with the prior model year. Exact MSRP figures may vary slightly by trim and options.
Powertrain choices remain the same:
- Standard: 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic
- Available hybrid: 2.0-liter turbo high-output hybrid system with a 100-kW electric motor and CVT for 285 combined horsepower
All-wheel drive is standard. Hybrids have accounted for more than half of recent Nautilus sales, reflecting strong buyer preference for the more refined and efficient option.
The 2027 Nautilus continues to be produced in China for the U.S. market, though Ford has announced plans to phase out Chinese-built Lincoln imports beginning in 2030 and expand U.S. production.
Specs and Key Features Overview
Core attributes that carried over from the MKX era and subsequent Nautilus generations include generous second-row legroom (approximately 43 inches), solid cargo capacity for a two-row luxury crossover, and a quiet, comfort-oriented ride. Standard tech and safety features remain competitive in the segment against rivals such as the Lexus RX, Acura MDX alternatives in size class, and various European midsize luxury crossovers.
For the latest official specifications, trim details, and configurator options, check Lincoln’s website or a local dealer, as final U.S. pricing and equipment can be confirmed closer to delivery.
Used MKX vs. New 2027 Nautilus
If budget is the primary concern, well-maintained late-model MKX examples (especially 2016–2018) remain available on the used market and offer strong value with features such as available turbo V6 power and upscale interiors. However, the Nautilus brings newer technology (large panoramic display, advanced driver assists, hybrid efficiency), updated styling, and full factory warranty coverage.
For most U.S. shoppers searching “2027 Lincoln MKX,” the practical recommendation is to evaluate the 2027 Nautilus as the direct modern successor.