What is Lincoln MKX called now?
The Lincoln MKX is now called the Lincoln Nautilus. Lincoln replaced the MKX’s alphanumeric name with a traditional model name as part of a broader branding shift for its midsize SUV lineup.
This article explains the rename, when it happened, and how the Nautilus fits into Lincoln’s current lineup, along with practical notes for buyers and shoppers.
A naming change explained
Key facts about the rename and its rollout:
- Rename timing: The MKX was replaced by the Nautilus starting with the 2019 model year in the United States.
- Brand strategy: This is part of Lincoln's broader move away from alphanumeric model names toward real names.
- Positioning: Nautilus remains the midsize premium SUV slot in Lincoln's lineup, sitting above the Corsair and below the Aviator in size and market positioning.
The change affected new-vehicle naming from 2019 onward; used-vehicle listings may still show MKX for older stock or in markets with different branding.
Why Lincoln shifted from MKX to Nautilus
Executives described the rename as part of a sharper brand narrative, aiming to make Lincoln's models easier to recognize and remember. The Nautilus name was chosen to convey premium presence and to align with the company's move toward more descriptive, non-alphanumeric naming.
How to identify Nautilus in today’s market
Look for the Nautilus badge on the tailgate and in marketing materials. If shopping in the used market, verify the model year to confirm whether a vehicle is Nautilus (2019 and later) or the earlier MKX (pre-2019).
Summary
The Lincoln MKX has been renamed the Lincoln Nautilus, beginning with the 2019 model year as part of Lincoln’s broader branding refresh. The Nautilus serves as the midsize premium SUV in Lincoln’s current lineup and carries over many of the MKX’s attributes with updated styling and features.
What is the Lincoln MKX now called?
The Lincoln Nautilus is a mid-size luxury crossover SUV marketed and sold by the Lincoln brand of Ford Motor Company. The Nautilus was initially renamed from the MKX as part of a mid-cycle update in 2018 for the 2019 model year, as Lincoln phased out its use of "MK" model names.
What did they replace the Lincoln MKX with?
The Lincoln Nautilus replaced the Lincoln MKX. The change was made as part of a mid-cycle refresh for the 2019 model year, as Lincoln phased out its "MK" naming convention. The Nautilus is a luxury crossover SUV that carries on the legacy of the MKX.
You can watch this video to learn more about the 2024 Lincoln Nautilus: 59sRaiti's RidesYouTube · May 6, 2023
- Name change: The 2019 model year saw the Lincoln MKX rebranded as the Lincoln Nautilus.
- Brand strategy: This renaming was part of Lincoln's decision to stop using the "MK" series of names for its vehicles.
- Model evolution: The Nautilus carries on the tradition of the MKX, which itself was a mid-size luxury SUV based on the Ford Edge.
Are the Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX the same car?
The Lincoln MKX is essentially a more luxurious version of the Ford Edge, but that doesn't necessarily mean they come with identical equipment! However, as one might expect, both vehicles have a seating capacity of 5.
Is the Lincoln Nautilus the same as the MKX?
The features keep getting better as we climb up to the trim levels. Lincoln has improvised with the Lincoln MKX model with even better features and named it the Lincoln Nautilus.
