The sleek and polished Lincoln Nautilus is coming back for 2021 with a sick style upgrade. This midsize luxury SUV joins the SUV lineup for Lincoln, in line with the flagship Navigator and the already popular Aviator. The Nautilus competes with the likes of the Cadillac XT6, Mercedes-Benz GLE Class, and the BMW X5. But will this latest style enhancement be enough to sway potential luxury SUV buyers? After all, some say nobody does style quite like Lincoln does.

The Monochromatic package is all style and class

This new style package doesn’t just apply to the 2021 Nautilus. In fact, the noir-themed black on color addition can also be leveraged with the smaller Corsair, the Aviator, and the Navigator. The look will feature slick, black wheels, married to the body color trims, and side mirrors. Options include either black or white paint, as the package name implies. It’s sharp and those who’ve had a chance to see it in person, say it screams class and style. But the critics are quick to point out, not much else comes with the Monochromatic package. Beyond its looks, no other upgrades should be expected.

So how is the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus equipped?

The 2021 Lincoln Nautilus will come with two engine variations. One is the 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder that harnesses 250 horses. Those who want more power and performance can opt for the 2.7L V6 with 335 hp. Both versions are paired with the eight-speed automatic transmission. Some reviews suggest the best version, and absolute “ace in the hole,” is the Black Label trim. If you genuinely want luxury, including Venetian leather, Alcantara headliners, and adaptive suspension, with that bigger engine, it’s the most upscale configuration.

What luxury tech looks like

Every version of the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus will come equipped with the Lincoln Co-Pilot 360 suite of driver aids and tech. The menu of safety-focused features includes auto emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, lane-departure warning, and pedestrian detection. Upgrading to the Lincoln Co-Pilot 360 Plus brings extras like a surround-view camera, automated parking, and adaptive steering.

When it comes to top-notch comfort and convenience, the Nautilus comes loaded with all the must-have features. The luxury SUV offers a simple center console, with well-placed dials and touch points. There is a push-button shifter, an eight-inch touch screen, and satellite radio. Wi-Fi hot spot technology, and both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity all come standard. Add in optional wireless charging capability, navigation, and a 19-speaker premium audio system. 

The only real change to the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus

Outside of the new, albeit stylish, Monochromatic package, not much else is new. One source did suggest the grille is getting changed up, to reflect the rectangular grille shape of the others in the luxury SUV family. But moving away from the former split-wing grille and fascia design is about the only notable change. Pricing is expected to start around $42,690 and will range upwards of $65,000. Some of the reviewers say if the Monochromatic style upgrade isn’t worth writing home about for you, it may not be worth your investment.

Those who are ready to trade up for true class and luxury, the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus may be a perfect fit. And if you’re especially a fan of the slick styling the new Monochromatic package offers, you’ll love this version. But if looks are less of a consideration for you, you won’t find much else new this year on the Nautilus. Although it may already be loaded with everything, you need. After all, this MKX replacement was designed with luxury and style in the first place.