The all-new, next-generation 2024 Lincoln Nautilus leaked back in November via the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information, giving us our first look at the redesigned crossover and its new back-lit logo. Now, Ford Authority has spotted a 2024 Lincoln Nautilus prototype out driving around wearing heavy camo, as is the case with previously-spied examples, along with a very interesting feature – Lincoln Continental-style door handles.
This is the very first time we’ve seen a 2024 Lincoln Nautilus with this style of door handle, which was previously used on that same model, in addition to the discontinued sedan. Instead of the flush-mounted door handles present on the aforementioned leaked images and on previously-spotted prototypes, these units feature a design that’s seemingly inspired by the last-gen Continental, protruding from the belt-line trim.
There also don’t appear to be any cutouts in the crossover’s camouflage to accommodate flush handles, so this seems to be a new, functional door handle treatment. This change could be market-specific, or perhaps signify that the next-gen Nautilus will offer different door handles based on trim level.
It’s worth noting that insiders have told Ford Authority that these types of door handles are not working out for some automakers, such as General Motors. For example, the Cadillac Lyriq launched with a door handle requiring passengers to press a button located on the outside of the door that unlatches the door and allows them to grab onto a small protrusion located around the B-pillar, at which point they can use it to open the door. Rear seat passengers must grab onto the door frame itself to gain entry. However, the Lyriq is set to move to a more traditional handle design at some point in the future, as GM Authority previously reported.
At this point, it’s unclear if this change affects all 2024 Lincoln Nautilus models, only specific trim levels, if it’s a change made due to supply chain issues, or if it will be limited to Chinese market crossovers, but regardless, it’s a notable change, indeed.
We’ll have more on the next-gen Nautilus soon, so be sure and subscribe to Ford Authority for the latest Lincoln news, Lincoln Nautilus news, and comprehensive Ford news coverage.
Comments
This looks like the US version of the Lincoln Nautilus with some modifications to fit our market, including the conventional door pulls instead of the retractable ones which are everywhere in China.
I hope you are right. I really don’t see why Lincoln would abandon the midsize crossover segment.
This will end up a stretched Corsair. They need to make a 2 row Aviator and be done with it.
I don’t understand why they don’t add heads up, remote start heated steering wheel and 360 cameras to the Nautilis since it’s going to be such a big deal.
The continental style handles built into the chrome belt line were ugly and took away from the flow of the design. This is a step backwards from flush mounted units.
Would look better as “coach door” center opening.
Agreed. That’s a gimmick that might actually work.
Another stupid truck!
But Coach Doors might be just enough to make you want one because everyone else has regular doors. Adds distinction, individuality. Aviator should offer Coach Doors as well. Can the Navigator be worked with the gull wing doors from the concept sold as a limited edition? That would be WOW!
It’s not a stupid truck Mike. It’s a crossover. Learn to differentiate between the two before making stupid comments.