Lincoln Concept Models Including MK9 and Mark X Going up for Auction

If you're looking to add a Lincoln concept model to your collection, here's your chance as a total of five design studies from the past decade will be offered for sale by Ford Motor Company at the RM's Sports & Classics of Monterey auction on August 12th. The proceeds raised through the sale will benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and The Children's Center, an organization that is based in Michigan, USA.

The five Lincoln concept models up for sale are the 2001 MK9 coupe; 2004 Aviator SUV; 2005 MKS sedan; 2003 Navicross coupe crossover and last but not least, the Mark X which was a hardtop-convertible proposal for Lincoln's version of the Ford Thunderbird.

Bear in mind that even though all cars except the Navicross have are drivable, none can be registered for highway use in the States. Follow the break for a short description (from RM) and pricing estimates for each concept model.

Union of Concerned Scientists Releases 2011 Hybrid Scorecard: Prius = Good, Touareg Hybrid = Bad

The Union of Concerned Scientist, a non-profit science advocacy group in the U.S., has released its second annual Hybrid Scorecard. The organisation criticised hybrid car manufacturers for not delivering on the technology�s promise, for placing performance above fuel efficiency and environmental benefit and burdening hybrids with features that put them out of the price range of average Americans.
A total of 34 hybrid vehicles from the 2011 to 2012 model year were tested for their fuel efficiency, environmental impact, value-for-money and their so-called �forced-feature premium�. The latter is features that don�t improve fuel efficiency but probably make the cars more appealing to money-conscious consumers.

Mercedes-Benz Tops Secret Shopper Study of U.S. Dealers, Lincoln Places Last in Luxury Segment

Mercedes-Benz dealers were number one for customer treatment in the US according to an independent study by survey company Pied Piper. The California-based company hired 3,524 �secret shoppers� and sent them to US dealerships in order to determine how their salesmen were performing in anything from explaining a car�s features to closing a deal.
This is the third year in a row that Mercedes-Benz, which looks set to top the sales charts this year in the luxury segment, has topped Pied Piper�s study.

2012 Lincoln MKT EcoBoost [$44,300]

2012 Lincoln MKT EcoBoost Specifications

The Lincoln has with new car that is 2012 Lincoln MKT EcoBoost. This car is priced at $44,300.

2012 Lincoln MKT EcoBoost is boosted with a 3.5-liter V-6 engine, with an output power of 335HP horsepower, and a 350lb-ft of torque at the 5,250rpm.MKT buyers can choose between six- and seven-passenger models with two different second-row seating configurations. The standard 60/40 split folding rear bench seat features heated outboard seating positions.

2012 Lincoln MKT EcoBoost Standard features include : SYNC voice control, plus an audio system comes with a CD/DVD/MP3 player with 10 speakers, SIRIUS XM Radio with a six-month subscription and audio input jack. An available dual headrest Family Entertainment System with twin seven-inch DVD playback screens offers individual or simultaneous programming to second-row passengers.

2012 Lincoln MKT EcoBoost sale at North American dealers in late summer.

2012 Lincoln MKT EcoBoost 01

Lincoln Drops Price of 2012 MKT with EcoBoost V6 by $3,000

Lincoln has introduced the 2012 model year version of its not-so-successful MKT three-row crossover. While there are no equipment or styling changes, the Detroit automaker has reshuffled the MKT�s lineup by dropping the all-wheel drive model with the naturally-aspirated 3.7-liter V6 from the range and reducing the price of the AWD version with the 355HP 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 by $3,000 to $46,295.

2011 Lincoln MKX SUV

Lead-reaching innovation is the new brand MyLincoln Touch Driver Connect technology, which provides a smarter, safer, easier to connect drivers with embedded technologies and their digital lives. MyLincoln comes standard on the 2011 Lincoln MKX, which offers motorists a totally new experience behind the wheel.

"With its combination of style, performance and uncompromising luxury, the Lincoln MKX brought new customers into the showroom of Lincoln, in such a way that very few products have before," said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Global Product Development. "Customers tell us they care more about Lincoln style and technology, and the new Lincoln MKX meets these needs perfectly. The new touch technology MyLincoln will change the way customers interact with their vehicles, while its new design language gives the car a distinctive and elegant silhouette that we know customers will love. "
 

2011 Lincoln MKX SUV

A dramatic cooling of the Lincoln MKX 2011 extends to all areas of the vehicle: the new features and technologies not available elsewhere, a new look, new interior increased use of natural materials, new transmission with unsurpassed fuel consumption, better handling, and new tires and wheels combine to produce an unparalleled experience of luxury.

"The 2011 Lincoln MKX is not a commitment to luxury," says Elaine Bannon, chief engineer. "Each attribute - technology, ergonomics, choice of materials, energy, fuel economy, the driving experience - is an outstanding example. Furthermore, wrapped in a beautiful package."

MyLincoln only the beginning of the technology fills Lincoln MKX 2011.

The first experience MyLincoln touch, powered by a Lincoln ® Sync replaces the conventional machine buttons, knobs and indicators for a clear, crisp LCD screens, and five directional buttons like those found in mobile phones and MP3 players. Screens can be customized to display information about each driver, with a simple button, a voice command or touch screen.

The electronics panel end 2011 Lincoln MKX demonstrates the benefits of this technology in an attractive package nice touch. Amber LED display features enabled. When off, Lincoln signature white light on the screen.

In addition to the usual audio and climate control functions, including technology touch volume control and fan control, which is exclusive to Lincoln.

Customers can run a finger along the slider to adjust the volume. Slider has 10 separate contacts with the surface, three full sweeps to bring the system of maximum intensity. Customers can also tap the slider to get something with a corresponding increase or decrease in volume.

The fan control is operated in a similar way. Both the volume control and fan control, it works Lincoln distinctive white light as a Chaser.

As the song? You can feel it.

Also new on the 2011 Lincoln MKX is the first global use of iTunes ® Tagging in an available factory-installed HD Radio ™ receiver. On the available voice-activated navigation system via the SYNC, iTunes Tagging allows customers to "catch up" a song they hear on HD Radio for later purchase from iTunes. With a press of a "TAG" on the display of radio, the song information will be stored in the preset memory.

When the song is encoded, and customers of their SYNC system, iPod Dock, "tagged" the song data is transferred to the iPod. When the iPod is synced with iTunes playlists of songs entered will appear. Synchronize up to 100 tags can be maintained until the iPod is connected. When the iPod is connected, the tags are transferred to sync your iPod. Customers can then preview, buy and download tagged songs from the iTunes Store, if you wish.

One of the main benefits of HD Radio technology is that the sound quality of transmission is greatly improved, because the digital transmission - the CD sounds like FM and AM sounds like FM broadcasts today. Additionally, unlike analog broadcasts, digital broadcasts are not sensitive to things interference, fading, and others.

2011 Lincoln MKX is full of technology and class-exclusive standard.

Standard MyLincoln Remote Touch and leads to a list of features or techniques that are new to the Lincoln MKX 2011, including:

• Adaptive Cruise Control with Collision Warning and Brake Support, the driver can set the speed of the vehicle and maintain it without the accelerator, and warns the driver of a potential collision. It also helps to reduce the speed, and automatically pre-charges brakes and engage in electronic brake assist helps the driver to stop more quickly when the system detects a collision is imminent.

• Information System blind blind (BLIS ®) with traffic alert Cross is a function that can detect vehicles in blind spots in normal driving and traffic coming from the investment side for parking.

• MyKey ™ is designed to enable parents to encourage teens to drive safely and more energy efficient, and the use of seat belts increases. The standard function MyKey allows owners to identify the key that can limit the speed of the car and the volume.

® • Easy Fuel capless fuel tank system is a standard Ford exclusive feature that uses a gate valve integrated spring eliminates the need for a screw cap of the fuel tank.

2011 Lincoln MKX for eight classes exclusive features: Touch MyLincoln, Lincoln SYNC, Easy Fuel, SecuriCode ™ keyless entry, blind spot mirrors, MyKey, Cross Traffic Alert and AdvanceTrac ® with RSC (Roll Stability Control ™).

Fun to listen while the noise is set.

A series of improvements means that the 2011 Lincoln MKX will feel more connected to the driver and the road with a response acceleration, management participation, trust, handling and braking of the spirit.

The new 18-inch tires have increased their grip and are fitted with larger wheels than the outgoing product, will contribute to enabling more effective stopping and better handling. Twenty-inch wheels are available as well.

The springs, shock absorbers and stabilizer bars have also been adjusted to give an answer Lincoln MKX flat in the turns and hills, while offering luxurious comfort hiking buyers expect and demand.

Lincoln MKX The original benchmarks set in the tranquility of many global, and that tradition continues as Ford preliminary internal data show the 2011 MKX scores better voice recognition, wind noise and sound package that rivals Lexus and Audi.

Road noise and the two wind noise is significantly reduced in 2011 due to improvements MKX found throughout the interior and exterior, including the powertrain. Other developments include:

Audio compression, acoustic guitar and a glass pack more soundproofing can be found throughout the interior, which reduces high frequency noise more effectively than the material, which acts as a simple barrier. The result is greater articulation index, which measures how easy it is to listen and understand someone's vehicle. 2011 MKX is also an acoustic headliner, and the SYNC system microphone is positioned so that it is closer to the improved voice recognition. The windshield is thicker, and a beep laminated to reduce wind noise. Acoustic glass front doors is standard on the 2011 model. Finally, the expandable foam baffles in the oven with the rear fenders, and the D-pillar helps to seal the street noise.

Powertrain NVH improvements, three main actions that contribute to a quieter life 2011 Lincoln MKX from a powertrain NVH. One of them is the most robust engine cover. Intake and exhaust have also been completely retuned to a footnote to the network of DNA Lincoln powertrain. Finally, a converter "tight" torque reduces engine speed of launching and leading events, which reduces engine noise.
 

2011 Lincoln MKX SUV interior

Add to braking, a better braking technology.

The new four-disc brakes provide better braking power. Key system upgrades the brakes are steel pistons, bigger rear rotors, revised brake friction materials, a journal of the brake pedal return gain and audit reports, which allow more initial bite and more powerful, confident when Customers press the brake pedal.

The 2011 Lincoln MKX also offers several new features related to brake, Hill Start Assist, which reduces recoil to control trailer sway the hills, which provides greater stability when towing package equipped with trailer towing available hydraulic brake assist, which allows for greater braking force in emergency stops, and adaptive cruise control and disposition of collision warning with brake assist.

Best performance without sacrificing fuel economy.

2011 Lincoln MKX power 3.7-liter Duratec V-6, which uses advanced technology and skilled control strategies, such as the Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT) to increase power and torque without sacrificing fuel consumption .

Customers will receive the 2011 Lincoln MKX luxury crossover best-in-class power and torque compared to its competitors, with an economy of fuel V-6 unsurpassed 25 mpg highway - all on regular fuel. Power was increased to 305 - an increase of 15 percent compared with the product sale - while torque is 280 lb.-ft., marking an improvement of 12 percent ..

3.7-liter Ti-VCT V-6 is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission SelectShift ™, which offers customers the option of a manual-shift fun to experience.

Shift mode selection, the transmission is driving the decline, giving it control over gear selection and the feeling of performance. Skip to higher gears, for example, are not commanded and downshifts are allowed Redline speed as low as possible as defined by the motor speed.

For example, when a lower gear is selected for a long demotion, the 2011 Lincoln MKX SelectShift way to keep the equipment until the driver manually change up or returns to the fully automatic configuration. To help ensure a safe journey, downshifting of transmission to the lowest acceptable rate, based on a calculated maximum speed. This means that if a vehicle traveling at high speeds, the driver can not downshift to first gear SelectShift mode.

Improvements to the engine hardware, and transmission control strategies share gains in power and fuel economy. Other strategies in addition to Ti-VCT aggressive deceleration fuel shut-off valve, the torque-based slow-motion control and battery management through the "Smart charging."

New exterior design flows perfectly rolled Lincoln MKX technologies.

The exterior design flow of 2011 Lincoln MKX offers the perfect complement to the technology and luxury crossover class exclusive features.

"The 2011 Lincoln MKX will be a real star in the Lincoln showroom," said Doyle Letson, chief designer. "The addition of the new split-wing grille, a signature key Lincoln's DNA, n is just the beginning. MKX The 2011 has the best proportions of any Lincoln we have.

"The wing line with the arch erected in the front wheel and rocker with brilliant detail detail is beautifully tapered length of the vehicle, make a considerable difference in the side," he said.

New for the 2011 model has been updated to the rear tail light treatment. The lamps are now two different pieces, which use an indirect system of LED, which hides the light source in the same intensity of light to shine through. The sensors to turn Blind Spot Information System is an integrated reflector, while the star appliqué Lincoln sits proudly again. 4-inch oval tailpipes, significantly higher than the 2011 Lincoln MKX, also add a unique hotel luxury in a crossover.

The new 18-20-inch wheels are more dynamic and expressive. Instead of a familiar line or block the wheels include a variety of undulating forms and complex that helps the 2011 Lincoln MKX are always in motion. Forms of animation wheel again highlighted the improvement of craftsmanship and attention to detail found in the Lincoln MKX 2011.

All new interior full of functionality and craftsmanship.

The 2011 Lincoln MKX interior reflects a greater emphasis on defining the DNA of Lincoln: luxury, craftsmanship, authentic materials and sharper performance.

Details which highlights the low standards of quality and excellence are Lincoln brightwork on air vents, door seals, the real and softer armrests with improved materials. The cup holders, with available ambient light, is independent under the slide leather console cover, with decorative stitching. A steering column tilt / telescoping heated leather steering wheel are available.

The new leather-covered seats, comfort items and the standard tuxedo stripe to adopt a new style of the Lincoln DNA to sew. More real aluminum fixtures are standard, aluminum accents on the door Spears added to the dashboard.

Both wood accents available - Olive Ash and Walnut Swirl - on the steering wheel, dashboard and doors add character and shape, each choice has a more dynamic, natural and offers even more character to the interior . Whether customers choose aluminum or wood, the increased use of authentic materials in the 2011 Lincoln MKX interior ensures that each will be distinctive.

"Everything on the Lincoln MKX 2011 is a lively and luxurious," said Bannon. "We touch system makes MyLincoln people, helping them to understand that the new Lincoln MKX offers a total driving experience not found anywhere else."

The 2011 Lincoln MKX will be built at the assembly plant in Oakville, Ontario, Canada.

Price $ 39 415

2011 Lincoln MKS Review

2011 Lincoln MKS Review

Appearances, the 2011 Lincoln MKS has the potential battle for hearts and minds of buyers of luxury cars. Underneath it all, however, is essentially a new Ford Taurus skin. It is a good car, but has not done enough in the transformation of the Taurus MKS to justify a substantial price increase, not to mention the choice of this place any number of luxury Lincoln sedans purebred. This year, they have small additions do little to improve the position of MKS.
 

Last year, Ford twin-turbo "EcoBoost" engine MKS debuted at the range, which offers buyers a choice of V6 engine that goes beyond the base. However, considering that the cheapest Ford Taurus SHO is basically the same car underneath, and even made an extra 10 horsepower, the model does not appear suddenly EcoBoost so special. Acidification of the case is the handling of cars and mediocre interior materials.

As for Taurus, however, in 2011 the Lincoln MKS will be offered a large internal space, long list of standard equipment and a huge trunk. In fact, if you do not know that there are Taurus and MKS ignored the countless competitors, MKS would be pretty nice car. But the fact is that the MKS is a choice rather mediocre. On the contrary, we believe that most luxury sedan buyers would be happier with the Acura TL, Buick LaCrosse, Cadillac CTS or a Hyundai Genesis. And if you are thinking of EcoBoost model, the same amount of money could probably get more like the Jaguar XF sedan and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. In short, it takes more than a tarted-up bull to fight some of the world's best sedans in the round.

Body styles, trim levels and options

2011 Lincoln MKS has three trim levels: FWD, AWD and EcoBoost. FWD and AWD models come standard with 18-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, fog lights, rain sensing wipers, heated power side mirrors with memory integrated blind spot mirror, auto-dimming driver's side auto-adaptive bi- xenon lights automatic headlights, keyless entry / ignition and slick version of the venerable Ford touchpad entry system, which is embedded at the bottom of column B.

Interior standard features include power rear sunshade, cruise control, auto-dimming rearview mirror, leather, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, automatic climate control, dual-zone heating and cooling eight-way power front seats (with power lumbar support) , heated rear seats, memory settings for driver, voice-activated Sync system (includes turn-turn), a THX-certified audio with a dash six-disc MP3 changer, satellite radio and an audio input jack auxiliary. EcoBoost is similarly equipped, but has a more powerful twin-turbo engine and the wheels of 19 inches.

Optional features include 19 - or 20-inch wheels, adaptive cruise control and the EcoBoost, a Ford automatic parking system. Navigation Package adds a rearview camera, touch screen navigation system disk with Sirius Travel Link, and an upgraded 14-speaker THX-certified surround sound system with a single DVD/CD/MP3 player, HD radio , two subwoofers and 10GB storage of digital music. The ultimate package adds all the elements of navigation and leather bi-level and sash (stand-alone non EcoBoost models). EcoBoost sporting a skin adds external elements such as unique 20-inch chrome wheels, not including seats, illuminated scuff plates and a leather steering wheel.

Engines and performance

Both FWD (front wheel drive) and AWD (all wheel drive) trim levels share the same powertrain, a 3.7-liter V6 mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift control and paddle. This engine generates 273 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque on regular unleaded gasoline, but filling with raw power is increased to 275 hp and 276 lb-ft. We got a slow 7.5 seconds and accelerates from zero to 60 mph in AWD test car with this engine, expect lighter front wheel drive model shave a few tenths of the time. Fuel economy EPA-estimated 17 mpg is 19 mpg city/24 highway and in combination with front-wheel drive with 16/23/19.

The model EcoBoost four-wheel drive is powered by a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 that makes 355 horsepower and 350 lb.-ft. of torque. EcoBoost is considerably faster and, in fact the best fuel economy at 17/25/20. However, premium gasoline is recommended for the EcoBoost engine.

Security

For 2011 Lincoln MKS comes standard with stability and traction control, side airbags for front seats, side curtain airbags and antilock brakes with brake assist. A Collision Warning with Brake Assist comes with adaptive cruise control option. In government crash tests MKS has received a number of stars perfect five out-of-five for occupant protection in crashes with frontal and side impact. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety also gave the highest MKS "good" for both frontal and side-offset crash tests.

Interior Design and Special Features

For 2011, MKS has a comfortable interior with leather seats as standard and an attractive dash layout. Unfortunately, the interior style is hampered by some lower-quality materials and original equipment Ford. This is particularly troubling given that FMD is not significantly better than the Taurus a lot cheaper.

On the positive side, ventilated seats, a welcome change that FMD is standard on the rear heated seats. For 2011, MKS offers plenty of interior space and cargo - the trunk will hold 18.4 cubic feet. The space and comfort of the rear seat are particularly impressive.

Driving Impressions

All gracious curves, luxury features and Lincoln badging work well to mask the origins of the MKS, but behind the wheel, there is no escape Taurus Ford Foundation. A base V6 would be exceeded by an MKS Ford Fusion SEL V6 in terms of performance and its big engine note also reduce the call - especially when you compare with other cars in its price class.

The EcoBoost engine is a choice much more satisfactory, but whatever the engine is taken, the handling is a bit of a disappointment. On winding roads, the suspension feels too soft and boring. Normally, this would result in a soft plush ride quality, but oddly enough, MKS still feels very solid. Finally disks 2011 Lincoln MKS sedan as an important quality rolled out luxury you expect.

Price $ 41 500

Lincoln C Concept, 2009

Lincoln C Concept, 2009

Lincoln is breaking new ground with the Lincoln C Concept, a new big idea for a small luxury car. Designed with today's upscale, urban consumer in mind, the Lincoln C Concept brings the presence and elegance of a large Lincoln to a smaller, more efficient C-sized car.

Featuring a 1.6-liter Eco Boost engine and Ford's all-new dry, dual-clutch PowerShift six-speed transmission, the Lincoln C Concept achieves 43 mpg on the highway, while offering up an impressive 180 horsepower and 180 ft.-lbs. of torque. PowerShift and outstanding driving dynamics make the Lincoln C Concept fun for the driver.

Sporty, Elegant Exterior Design
When designers developed the Lincoln C Concept, their goal was to create a C-sized automobile with both presence and elegance. Their vision: a smaller, more fuel-efficient car that could maneuver easily in congested urban areas and compact parking spaces, yet still provide driver and passengers with levels of luxury and comfort usually reserved for larger sedans.

One of the most distinctive features of the Lincoln C is its unique silhouette. The visual mass of the car is very low to the road. A low-slung shoulder line with a wheel-at-each-corner stance supports a dynamic, slightly formal cabin. The aim was "go kart" visual stability combined with elegant lines and surfaces.

The modern appearance of the Lincoln C reflects the timeless, iconic elements of the Lincoln DNA: sheer surfaces bounded by defined creases; a cantilevered roof extending from a strong C-pillar; a confident double-wing chrome grille; full-width tail lamps and rocker brightwork.

The front end of the concept is unmistakably Lincoln. The signature grille encapsulates LED headlamps that - like the taillights - are made with prismatic optical elements that create depth and visual sophistication. A sculpted groove in the top of the front hood - which derives its shape from the Lincoln badge - adds a finishing touch to the grille of the car.

A low shoulder line combines with a strong, high belt line to create a sense of safety and privacy inside and outside of the vehicle.

An aluminum cantrail adds elegance to the concept by extending the beltline to the rear glass and breaking up the otherwise tall C-pillar. Aluminum is also visible inside the door apertures.

The Lincoln C is absent of a B-pillar or center post. The center-opening doors - a classic Lincoln trait that rekindles memories of the 1961 Continental - allow effortless access to first- and second-row bench seats and give the vehicle a limousine-like quality.

Sleek side mirrors house both advanced rear-view camera and blind spot detection technologies. Slit-like LED turn signal indicators are integrated into the mirrors, allowing slim, efficient light.

LED taillamps span the full-width of the Lincoln C's rear, featuring turn signal indicators that fade toward the center of the car stretch from side to side.

An all-glass roof provides a modern, futuristic look. The expansive opening illuminates the cabin and enhances the sense of spaciousness inside the car.

Designers reinterpreted the presentation of the Lincoln badge throughout the exterior of the Lincoln C in a subtle way, giving it a contemporary "race track" theme. The Lincoln star sits proudly at the center of the front end, and the rear badge is slightly morphed to suit its placement above the taillights.

A more in-depth look at various details of the Lincoln C reveals that the badge motif is repeated in discreet ways in the design of the front lower intake mesh; the shape of the glass roof and structure; the implied illuminated keyholes on the door handles; the shape of the rear-view camera that sits on the back of the roof; the design of the wheels and the pattern in the tire treads.

The exterior of the Lincoln C is bathed in a light, exterior clear coat that hints of yellow metallic.

Modern, Timeless Interior Design

Inside, the Lincoln C Concept welcomes driver and passengers to a space that looks more like the living room of a contemporary urban loft than the inside of a car.

Elements of classic Lincoln DNA permeate the cabin, including: a bright, clean, light color palette; authentic materials such as wood and metal; ambient lighting; jewel-like chrome details; bench seating; and the symmetrical design of the instrument panel, which thoughtfully serves both driver and passengers.

The interior's all-white color palette -- from roof to seats to floor -- is stunning. Subtle chrome accents on the seats, instrument panel, door panels and floor glimmer like fine jewelry. A light gray wood veneer - made from recycled wood - provides a striking contrast against the white leather on the instrument panel and door panels. The headliner is white Alcantara suede.

Because the Lincoln C Concept is two inches wider than conventional C-class vehicles, it offers the roominess of a 1961 Continental at almost half the length. In modern terms, the vehicle has the overall length of a Ford Focus and the overall width of a Lincoln MKZ.

Designers took full advantage of the extra space in the interior of the Lincoln C by incorporating luxurious bench seating in the front and back rows. They are crafted from luxurious, chromium-free leather and filled with soy foam. The seats are thin and lightweight, but because they were designed to an ergonomic comfort curve, they are extremely comfortable.

There is a single headrest on the left and a double headrest on the right for passengers in both rows. All the headrests automatically retract without occupants for optimized driver vision. Convenience trays are housed compactly behind the front bench. In the closed position, they are flush with the leather and feature chrome release handles.

One of the most eye-catching elements of the seating is the laser-engraved floral etching on the passenger side seats and floor and on the back of the driver's seat. It is a light, airy pattern that gives the interior a refined, sophisticated look.

The steering wheel is hubless, lending the driver an unobstructed view of the instrument panel. The glossy white rim rotates around a stationary chrome ring with chrome shifter paddles on both sides. Simple toggles embedded into the left and right sides of the wheel control the vehicle's navigation system and menu selection.

The instrument panel is leather-wrapped with a chrome bezel. The light, gray wood veneer forms a symmetrical shape that surrounds the center-mounted touch screen and extends out to the right and left sides. Above the center screen is the Lincoln nomenclature and badge, finished tastefully in chrome.

The panoramic instrument panel is divided into three sections and designed with a mixture of digital and analog components. The left side contains Lincoln's signature HMI menus and driver-related information. The center portion displays a multi-functional screen displaying navigation, SYNC details and a life-like custom avatar to help make everyday journeys more seamless and other helpful, driver-oriented options.

Soft, white ambient lighting creates a relaxing atmosphere inside the cabin. The lighting is integrated into the C-pillar with a front face that displays the Lincoln badge.

The roof also features an integrated rearview mirror and a chrome-trimmed Web camera that rotates to the right or left, depending on whether the driver or the passenger is communicating via the Internet. A chrome air vent follows the shape of the glass roof.

Lincoln MKT Concept, 2008

Lincoln MKT Concept, 2008

Lincoln pulls the wraps off a new premium utility concept vehicle - unsurpassed in its balance of spaciousness, comfort and fuel efficiency - that shows customers a new way to tour in style.

The Lincoln MKT concept features a 3.5-liter V-6 EcoBoost engine with turbocharging and direct injection that produces the power and torque of a V-8 engine with the fuel efficiency of a V-6. EcoBoost - combined with advanced transmissions, electric power steering, weight reductions and aerodynamic improvements - is a key part of Ford Motor Company's vehicle sustainability strategy.

The company is introducing EcoBoost engines that will deliver up to 20 percent better fuel economy on half a million Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles annually in North America within the next five years. Ford will first introduce EcoBoost in the Lincoln MKS next year. The luxury sedan will feature a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V-6, delivering an estimated 340-horsepower and more than 340 lb.-ft. of torque on regular gas.

Premium Efficiency

The Lincoln MKT concept features an EcoBoost engine that's flex-fuel capable, providing the driver with the flexibility to switch back and forth between premium gasoline and E85 ethanol-gas blend. Burning these high-octane fuels, the MKT concept's V-6 engine delivers 415 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque - an impressive 118 horsepower per liter.

The concept's engine is mated to a six-speed transmission for greater fuel efficiency. Fuel efficiency also is helped by weight-saving, eco-friendly "upcycled" materials from SABIC Innovative Plastics.

Two upcycled plastic materials, Valox iQ and Xenoy iQ, were used in making the Lincoln MKT body panels, energy absorbers, wire bundles andglazing. The resins are made from discarded soft-drink bottles and other polyester waste, keeping them out of landfills, reducing energy consumption and shrinking the vehicle's overall carbon footprint. Some applications of the resin help the vehicle resist heat and chemicals and also improve overall noise and vibration.

Spacious Elegance

Drivers and passengers alike will appreciate the Lincoln MKT concept's spaciousness - right down to the seats that mirror those found in first-class aircraft cabins. Four executive-sized chairs offer comfort and unprecedented leg room. As an added pleasure, second-row heated and cooled thigh supports deploy from under the seats, while footrests deploy rearward from the front seats, allowing passengers to fully recline.

The vehicle's symmetrical interior design divides the cabin thoughtfully, providing all four passengers equal access to the vehicle's appointments.

Through the use of soothing tone-on-colors, eco-friendly materials, ambient lighting and flexible storage, the MKT concept offers customers a unique combination of serenity and connectivity.

Environmentally friendly details include the plush, hand-knotted rug made from banana silk that covers the floor and complements the contrasting Creamy Pearl chromium-free leather seats.

The interior, chrome accents - including a one-piece sculpted door handle featuring a baroque-influenced graphic - mirror the elegant lines on the concept's exterior.

For the center stack, designers invented and patented a solid-state lighting technology that allows them to project onto a contoured surface in 3-D. Until now, all projection was limited to flat surfaces with square or rectangular boundaries like a flat-screen television.

The new technology allowed designers to use non-traditional shapes and spaces for information displays as well as unique storage spaces in the center stack.

The expansive instrument panel and twin-level center console, finished in a reconstituted oak veneer, houses an assortment of technologies, including an instrument cluster inspired by Swarovski crystals. It uses Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) strategically positioned so light appears to emanate from the center of three circular dials and radiate to the outer edge of the dials.

The MKT concept's center console, which runs the entire length of the vehicle to create a feeling of continuity between the upper and lower portion of the cabin, contains individual air vents, audio and climate controls, and personal storage.

Lincoln's timeless design on a whole new package

The Lincoln MKT concept features Lincoln's signature double-wing chrome grille, encapsulating LED headlamps that wrap around into the sculptured hood, lending the luxury utility a powerful presence.

Its elegant body side chamfer runs along the shoulder, with dynamic haunches over the rear wheel arches. Inset into each front fender and traveling through the door panels are chrome Lincoln stars with spears that add visual length to the car. Meanwhile, winged, curb-clearing doors give the car a dramatic sense of direction, agility and forward movement.

As an unconventional surprise, designers incorporated a bustle-back design into the concept.

The classic look provides massive storage capacity, crucial for any trip.

From the rear, the concept is instantly recognizable as a Lincoln, thanks to full-width LED taillamps stretching from side to side.

Specifications
Powertrain

o Engine: 3.5-liter V-6 EcoBoost
o Horsepower: 415 hp @ 5,750 RPM
o Torque: 400 lb.-ft. from 2,000 to 5,000 RPM
o Transmission: 6-speed select-shift AWD
* Chassis
o Length: 208.4 in
o Wheelbase: 120.7 in
o Width: 78.7 in
o Height: 63.9 in
* Track Width
o Front: 67.1 in
o Rear: 67.0 in
* Suspension: Independent Rear Suspension
* Headroom:
o Front: 41.5 in
o Second Row: 39.4 in
* Legroom
o Front: 42.0 in
o Second Row: 44.0 in
* Tire size: 285/35/ZR2