Which Lincoln is based on the Edge?
The Lincoln MKX, and its successor Nautilus, are based on the Ford Edge’s platform. In other words, these Lincolns share engineering and chassis with Ford’s Edge, which helps explain their similar handling and parts compatibility.
Origins and platform sharing
The Ford Edge and the Lincoln crossover lineup have long shared engineering roots. The Lincoln MKX, introduced for the 2007 model year, was developed on the same underlying architecture as the Ford Edge. In 2019, Lincoln rebranded the MKX as the Nautilus, continuing to base it on the same Edge-derived platform. While Ford later ended Edge production in North America, the Lincoln Nautilus remains built on that shared platform lineage.
For readers seeking a quick reference to the lineage, the Edge-based Lincoln models are:
- Lincoln MKX (2007–2018) – the original model that shared its platform with the Ford Edge
- Lincoln Nautilus (2019–present) – the renamed MKX, continuing to share the Edge platform
These examples illustrate how Ford and Lincoln used a common architectural base to offer similar crossover dynamics with distinct luxury branding.
Implications for buyers
For consumers, platform sharing can mean overlapping maintenance considerations, parts compatibility, and a similar ride feel between Edge-derived Lincolns and their Ford counterpart. While the Lincoln models carry luxury features and branding distinct from the Edge, the underlying engineering remains closely related, making some mechanical components and service procedures familiar across both brands.
Summary
The Lincoln MKX and its successor Nautilus are the Lincoln models based on the Ford Edge. This relationship highlights Ford Motor Company’s strategy of sharing architecture across brands to deliver luxury crossover models with shared engineering, while maintaining brand-specific styling and features. Even as the Edge itself was phased out in North America, its platform lives on in these Lincoln crossovers.
What Lincoln is based on the Edge?
Lincoln Nautilus
| Lincoln Nautilus | |
|---|---|
| Layout | Front-engine, front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive |
| Related | Ford Edge |
| Chronology | |
| Predecessor | Lincoln MKX |
What is Lincoln Nautilus based on?
The current generation of the Lincoln Nautilus is based on a revised version of the Ford C2 platform, which is also used for models like the Ford Escape and Bronco Sport. While earlier versions shared more with the Ford Edge, the redesigned 2024 Nautilus is a separate vehicle built in China, though it shares powertrain concepts like its base engines with other Ford SUVs.
- Platform: The 2024 and newer models use the Ford C2 platform, which has been re-engineered for the Nautilus to serve as a luxury SUV.
- Production: Unlike previous generations, the current Nautilus is manufactured in a Ford plant in Hangzhou, China.
- Relationship to Ford Edge: Earlier generations of the Nautilus were based on the Ford Edge. The current model is built on a different platform, but it has a similar two-row, mid-size crossover SUV body style and offers powertrains comparable to the Ford Edge.
- Powertrain: The Nautilus features a 2.0L turbocharged engine as standard, similar to the Edge, but it also offers an optional hybrid configuration that is not available on the Edge.
Is the Lincoln Nautilus the same size as a Ford Explorer?
No, the Lincoln Nautilus and Ford Explorer are not the same size; the Explorer is generally a bit longer and larger, and is a three-row SUV while the Nautilus is a two-row, five-seater SUV. The Explorer is built on a different platform and is classified as a "standard SUV," while the Nautilus is classified as a "small SUV".
Key differences
- Passenger capacity: The Explorer seats up to seven passengers in three rows, while the Nautilus has a maximum of five seats in two rows.
- Cargo space: The Explorer has more maximum cargo space with the seats stowed, though the Nautilus has more cargo space behind the first row.
- Exterior dimensions: The Explorer is slightly longer than the Nautilus, and the Nautilus is slightly narrower, making the Explorer easier to navigate in tight parking spots.
- Classification: The Explorer is considered a standard SUV, whereas the Nautilus is classified as a small SUV.
What Lincoln model is equivalent to the Ford Edge?
The Lincoln model equivalent to the Ford Edge is the Lincoln Nautilus. Both are mid-size SUVs that share a chassis and powertrain options, but the Nautilus is positioned as the more luxurious and premium option. The Nautilus features a more upscale interior, a smoother ride, and premium materials, while the Edge is known for its practicality and affordability.
| Feature | Ford Edge | Lincoln Nautilus |
|---|---|---|
| Market Position | Practical and affordable mid-size SUV | Luxury mid-size SUV |
| Chassis | Shares the same chassis as the Nautilus | Shares the same chassis as the Edge |
| Powertrain | Shares same engine options as the Nautilus | Shares same engine options as the Edge |
| Interior | Practical and modern | More luxurious with premium materials |
| Ride Quality | Tuned for a more connected feel | Tuned for a smoother, more refined ride |
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