Lincoln MKS - A New Type of American Luxury Sedan

Ford and Lincoln have been on a roll lately. As they fine-tune the Lincoln design language, customers are attracted by what they see. The MKS is an excellent example of what Lincoln is capable of. This is a very nice full size luxury sedan with all the expected accoutrements.

To begin with, the styling of the MKS is striking. The vehicle looks the part and has great presence. The interior complements the exterior nicely and it feels as good as it looks. It’s bright and spacious. There is generous space and the seating is very comfortable for fore and aft. Lincoln is also very forward thinking providing both heated and cooled seats as standard equipment.

Lincoln’s SYNC technology package has been getting rave reviews and justifiably so. It’s a particularly useful capability that benefits the driver and the passengers of the vehicle because they will actually be using it the majority of the time that they’re in the vehicle. Exterior styling benefits onlookers. The interior is where the owners and passengers spend their time.

The standard MKS is powered by a nice 3.7 liter V6. The EcoBoost version of the MKS is what sets it apart from the competition. It transforms this proper looking boulevardier into a surprisingly powerful and sure footed vehicle. EcoBoost is a package built around a twin turbocharged 3.5 liter V6 with 365 smile inducing horsepower. It also includes an all-wheel-drive system tuned to control the power of the engine.

The EcoBoost version of the MKS is the best of both worlds. When in proper luxury sedan mode, the deceivingly sedate MKS putters around with the best of them. A sharp stab to the gas pedal and the car rockets away like you’d never expect a car like this could. It’s capable of going crazy speeds up twisting rainy mountain roads in complete tranquility. Picture this image in your mind. A luxury sedan moving very rapidly on a wet twisty road with the passengers serenely listening to Beethoven majestically playing through the TXH surround audio system, in the car’s tomb-quiet cockpit. The EcoBoost version allows vivifying sure footed performance in a proper luxury car. It really is a new interpretation of an American luxury sedan.

By Kelly Foss
MyCarData

7:57 AM | 0 comments | Read More

Lincoln MKS - About town

I flew home from a trip to California last Friday, and while I was waiting for a shuttle to the Economy Lot, I couldn’t help but be impressed with the long line of shiny black Lincoln Town Cars waiting to pick up passengers. Their flash chrome grilles, stand-up hood ornaments, alloy wheels, and formal profiles are the standard among the livery trade. Enjoy it because soon this sight will be history.

Lincoln still lists the Town Car among its 2010 offerings on the consumer site, but there is not even a hint that it exists on the media site. I also saw none at the Detroit, Chicago, or Indianapolis auto shows this winter. Whether Lincoln is trying to paint a new image of itself, or the 2010s are simply re-numeraled 2009s, is hard to know. One drive in the MKS EcoBoost and you really won’t care. Mourn the TC for about two minutes, then get excited about the MKS. This is Lincoln’s new full-size flagship and it is a great one.

I’m not sure what I think of the design. The front wears Lincoln’s trademark “bow wake” grille design, a nod to the ’40 Continental. A smooth profile from front to high rear deck is handsome, especially the stepped shoulderline, but the design could just as easily be a Volvo or Lexus. Nothing really screams “Lincoln” except for the huge chrome logos on the front fenders. Overall, it is a nice-looking car and should please its potential owners.

If there’s any question about the exterior, there’s none about the passenger cabin. Ultra soft seat leather comes from Bridge of Weir, the same Scottish tannery that provided hides for the ’56 Continental Mark II. Optional Ebony wood is recycled from furniture makers. Ample chrome, stitched dashtops, individual center front armrests, and padded materials everywhere lend an aire of craftsmanship. THX audio will make you swear you’re in a box at the symphony.

Proving the car a starship, worthy of its high-end positioning, the MKS is loaded to the stitched dash coverings with every conceivable electronic gadget. Heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats, and a power-adjustable steering wheel are but a start. Collision Warning uses the automatic cruise control’s radar unit to detect an impending collision, alerts the driver by flashing red lights onto the windshield, and pre-charges the brakes for when the driver finally taps the pedal. You can also get Active Park Assist on the MKS. The system measures parallel parking spaces as you pass them, lets you know when the car will fit, then steers the car into the space as you modulate the throttle. I tried it at the Detroit auto show. Pretty cool!

Keeping you connected to the world is Sync, developed jointly by Ford and Microsoft. The system enables voice activation for the audio, climate, calling, and navigation systems. It can also provide other information you never imagined. Driving home from my parents the other night, I conjured up a five-day weather forecast, received movie times, and had the car route me to the 9:30 movie with the touch of a button. Bluetooth enables hands-free calling.

Going out with the upright styling are V8 engines. MKS comes standard with a 270-HP 3.7-litre V6 engine, but our test car came with the 3.5-litre twin-turbo direct-injected “EcoBoost” V6 that routes 355 horsepower to the wheels through an electronic all-wheel-drive system and manumatic 6-speed transmission. The transmission can either be left to shift crisply on its own, or controlled with paddles behind the steering wheel. I don’t really imagine most of Lincoln’s owners ripping through the gears like they’re behind the wheel of a Ferrari 458 Italia, but who knows? The twin-turbo engine may enliven the soul enough to drive like a demon. Fuel economy (on 87 octane) is rated 17/25-MPG city/highway.

MKS’ comfort owes much to its Volvo-based chassis with four-wheel independent suspension, four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, AWD, stability control, and Pull Drift Control that automatically compensates for rutted roads and crosswinds. It rides serenely on the highway, gives sport sedans a good go through curvy mountain passes, and keeps harshness out of the interior. This is easily the best-handling full-size Lincoln ever.

A car about town, the MKS will soon await not only thousands of happy owners, but also hordes of content travelers looking for a plush ride home after a long trip. Admittedly, older Lincoln owners may have cardiac arrest on the showroom floor when they drive in to trade their Continental or Town Car. Once revived, they’ll be very happy. With an as-tested price of $54,425, competitors include the Cadillac DTS, Mercedes E-Class, Chrysler 300C, and Lexus ES.

By Casey Williams
MyCarData


2010 Lincoln MKS EcoBoost

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Lincoln MKZ

“Blinded by the Light” comes to mind when squinting against the sun's reflection from the miles of chrome on Lincoln's MKZ. Whoever hawks chrome to Lincoln purchasing agents must be awash in commissions. An abundance of brightwork is certainly a defining characteristic of that storied brand. But like a preening male peacock fanning its tail to seduce the female, a healthy display of chrome helps lure well-heeled buyers to luxury automobiles. In the case of the MKZ, it also helps distance MKZ from Ford's Fusion with which it shares many of its moving parts.

Actually, the use of chrome tappers off dramatically once your eye works its way from the front of the car around to its flanks and hindquarters. It is its familial front end, common among Lincoln's M-lettered vehicles, with its dominating chrome grille, headlamp surrounds and air port surrounds that leave onlookers somewhat dazzled. Lincoln stylists have applied chrome sparingly around the rest of the bodywork.

As a tidy, personal luxury sedan, the MKZ works well. Despite its four-door configuration and three-adult-friendly backseat, drivers who spend most of their wheel time alone won't feel they are driving a lot more car than they need. It is ideally suited for a couple's weekend getaway, but can carry the workplace crew out to lunch. Comfortable yet intimate, the cabin is elegant blend of convenience, luxury and functionality.

The leather-covered heated and cooled front bucket seats offer generous side bolsters and bottom cushions. Both driver and front-passenger seats offer 10-way power adjustment. Wood and subdued silver accents surround the soft-touch materials that cover the dashboard and doors. The four-spoke tilt/telescoping wood-and-leather steering wheel sports a bevy of buttons for operating the audio system and cruise control.

Although it hosts a driver information center, the operation center for the eleven-speaker audio system with its six-disk in-dash CD player and iPod interface, as well as the controls for the automatic dual-zone climate system, the redesigned center stack is remarkably uncluttered and simple to decipher. Operating the iPod interface is more involved than it needs to be, but otherwise operating these systems is anything but intimidating.

Included in the MKZ's $34,965 base price is Ford's voice-activated Sync connectivity system that allows the driver to operate most MP3 players, Bluetooth-compatible phones and USB drives with voice commands. It will also access the optional navigation system, as well as real-time traffic when the satellite radio subscription is active.

Getting the optional hard-drive based navigation system with its eight-inch touch-screen display will require an outlay of at least $2,495; but this particular option package also includes a rearview camera, a THX-certified 5.1 surround sound audio upgrade with additional speakers, DVD playback capability, 10GB music storage and the integrated Sirius Travel Link with its traffic, weather and sports information among other info features.

Further sprucing up my test Lincoln was the $795 Sport Appearance Package. It included upgraded seat coverings with a contrasting tuxedo seam and color piping, unique floor mats with a decorative “Z”, aluminum interior accents, stiffer sport suspension, and 18-inch 10-spoke aluminum wheels.

With its low liftover, the trunk can accommodate more than 16 cubic feet of cargo. Additionally the split rear seat back can be folded down to increase hauling capacity.

A 263-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 delivers its power to the rear wheels by way of a six-speed driver-shiftable automatic transmission. “Aggressive” probably isn't the adjective you would use to describe acceleration, but this V6 does get the MKZ moving effortlessly when the light goes green. The six-speed and V6 work well together. Getting to 60 miles per hour from a stop takes under eight seconds. Fuel economy is in the mainstream of the segment. The EPA rates its fuel efficiency at 18 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.

All-wheel drive is available and will set you back $1,890. Not only does it move power from axle to axle, but also side to side as wheel slippage is detected.

Living up to its luxury designation, the MKZ stresses passenger comfort over handling. A double-wishbone setup in front and a multi-link arrangement in the rear are the suspension's key components. Its cornering capability is more than adequate, but it doesn't straighten out the twisties with the competence of such competitors as Infiniti's G37 or Cadillac's CTS. Ride quality, though, is excellent.

Bringing the MKZ to a standstill falls to disc brakes on all four corners supervised by an antilock system. Traction control, stability control and electronic brakeforce distribution are included in the base price. Dual front- and dual rear-seat side-impact airbags, as well as front and rear head airbags are all standard.

OK, so it isn't the sportiest sedan in its segment, but the MKZ offers good looks, better-than-average performance and a high-end passenger compartment in an easy-to-live-with package. There are enough tech features to wow neighbors yet all the systems operate intuitively. Driving it says you have arrived at a certain station in life, but it doesn't hit anyone over the head with your success. And as for all that chrome up front, that's why they invented sunglasses.

By Russ Heaps
MyCarData

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Lincoln MKT - Don't call it a wagon but....

2010 Lincoln MKT , The SUV backlash that everyone predicted is in full swing. Customers are deserting truck-based sport-utility vehicles in droves, and a growing number of multi-purpose crossover vehicles are taking their place, at both the low and high ends of the market. The marketing folks will talk about how it's an opportunity to serve customers as never before; what they really mean is, "What do luxury buyers want these days?" The market's changed, and that's why we're looking down the split-grilled barrel of a great big Lincoln station wagon.

Okay, it's not technically a "station wagon." The all-new MKT is Lincoln’s full-size luxury crossover vehicle. It’s a mega-wagon that features three rows of seating, a wide range of safety technologies, Ford’s new EcoBoost engine which provides V8-like horsepower with V6 fuel economy, and of course Lincoln’s brand of American luxury. Show-car styling and a generous girth give the MKT an impressive bearing on the road, and a newfound sense of luxury makes it a comfortable place to be, as well. Of course, that pesky question still remains: is it what luxury buyers want?

Based on the platform that underpins the Ford Flex, the MKT is instantly recognizable as a Lincoln. As is fitting for a paradigm-breaking vehicle, the MKT doesn't seem to have been influenced by other cars but does bear a passing resemblance to a luxury yacht. The front aspect is dominated by a “split-wing” grille with angled headlamps, and a prow-like nose. The long hood features Lincoln’s signature sculpting and flows into a rising side line that blends with the greenhouse, continuing the nautical resemblance. The MKT's wide rear end is dominated by full-width taillamps, a body-colored bumper and a vast expanse of sheet metal that's just begging its owner to airbrush a name across the back. A panoramic glass roof (with sunshades) is standard. Seriously, though, this is a decent-looking vehicle that manages to avoid many of the typical big-wagon tropes found on crossovers this size.

The MKT has a quiet sort of luxury inside, and it was one of the most popular people haulers we've driven this year, based on the votes of our various passengers. Generously-proportioned seats and cozy options like second-row heated seats may have had something to do with the loud noises of approval coming from the back. Six- or seven-passenger seating is available, and the MKT comes with a standard glass panoramic roof with power sunshades front and rear. The handsome instrument panel uses acrylic and LED white lighting, and real wood trim. For the rear-seat passengers, there are a small refrigerator and headrest-mounted DVD screens on the options list. Other high-tech luxury options include Adaptive Cruise Control, pushbutton start, adaptive headlamps, Ford’s new Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert, a reverse camera, navigation system and the SYNC communications and entertainment system with 911 Assist.

A choice of V6 engines is offered. The standard 3.7 liter Duratec V6 produces 268 horsepower. Fuel economy is rated at 15 miles per gallon in the city and 23 on the highway. To really move the MKT out, the available 3.5 liter EcoBoost V6 features twin turbochargers, dual overhead cam construction and direct fuel injection. The result is a very healthy 355 horsepower, and my EcoBoost-equipped MKT was more than willing to put that power to the road and run. Floorboard the pedal and there's not much evidence of the MKT's hefty 4800-pound curb weight as the car launches. Six-speed automatic transmissions with manual paddle-shift control are standard with both engines. The six-speed's shifts are wonderfully matched to the EcoBoost engine, especially under power. The MKT will play the part of Hot Rod Lincoln without protest. The 3.5 liter EcoBoost engine comes standard with all-wheel drive, which is available with the base 3.7 V6 as well.

The MKT is big. It feels big, and it drives big. Nonetheless, this vehicle has been tuned for confident handling and responsiveness that belie the vehicle’s size, and it works. MacPherson struts up front are backed up by rear-facing control arms and stabilizer bars, while the rear uses an independent multi-link setup with coil-over shocks. In the language of normal human beings, this means that the MKT provides a comfortable ride that's firm enough to feel carlike, but not as stiff as that of a truck-based vehicle. It's a good basis for a modern luxurious ride. Even with six passengers aboard, the ride is solid and smooth enough for last-minute makeup touchups on the way to a party. Electric power steering is available, as is the new Active Park Assist system which helps guide the driver during parallel parking. Anti-lock brakes and AdvanceTrac stability control with Roll Stabilty Control are standard equipment.

The MKT is a big, bold flagship for a brand that’s hoping to do big, bold things in the next few years. It’s equal parts versatile people hauler and technological showcase, and that makes it an appropriate symbol of Lincoln’s future. MKT pricing starts at $44,200 for the base 3.7 liter V6 with front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive starts at $46,195, and the more powerful EcoBoost-equipped MKT stickers for $49,200.

By Chris Jackson
MyCarData

7:52 AM | 0 comments | Read More

Lincoln MKZ Hybrid

It is easy to admire the Lexus HS250h with its slick styling and future-tech interior. The car set the standard for entry-luxury hybrid sedans. Not to spoil the gravy train, but it is about to get a wrath of competition from Lincoln’s own star, the MKZ Hybrid.

If you’ve driven the Ford Fusion Hybrid or Mercury Milan Hybrid, you have a very clear idea of what lies within the MKZ Hybrid. All three cars share a Mazda-derived vehicle architecture and efficient powertrain. The tight four-wheel independent suspension system is the best balance between driver engagement and a quiet, smooth ride. But, nobody buys a hybrid just to sprint through backroads.

Moved by a 2.5-litre Atkinson cycle four-cylinder engine, and enhanced by a electric motors and batteries, the MKZ Hybrid accelerates with 191 horsepower and will turn in an ultra-frugal 41/36-MPG city/hwy. That’s not as good as the purpose-built Prius, but is an improvement over the already-impressive Lexus HS250h. Better still, the MKZ is a comfy mid-size car with absolutely no compromises over the gas-only version. Given a light foot, the car will run on battery only up to 47 MPH over short distances.

Being a Lincoln, luxury is a given. Heated and cooled leather front seats, THX surround audio, automatic climate control, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and genuine wood trim soothe weary passengers. Blind spot and reverse warning systems keep them safe, as do four-wheel anti-lock brakes and electronic stability control. So far, AWD is not available on hybrid models. For a little entertainment, the instrument cluster “grows” and “kills” leaves on the LCD screen depending on how the car is driven.

It’s a fun way to make a point and encourage drivers to stretch their dollars for more miles.
Enhanced exterior styling, luxurious interiors, and a fuel-sipping powertrain make the Lincoln MKZ the sedan to beat. You may buy the MKZ Hybrid for its frugality, but you’ll love it for its chassis, handling, luxury, and grown-up feel. It is less iPhone and more conference phone, but that is a formula that seems to be working just fine for Ford and Mercury.

By Casey Williams
MyCarData

7:51 AM | 0 comments | Read More

Lincoln MKT EcoBoost – technology that works

One of Ford’s bright ideas back in the late ’90s was to build a luxury version of its full-sized Ford Expedition sport utility. It was called the Lincoln Navigator and was such a huge success and such a profit generator that General Motors, caught flat-footed, threw some luxury knickknacks and a Cadillac grille on the Chevrolet Tahoe and began selling it under the name Escalade. The tarted-up Tahoe was almost as successful as the Navigator.

But those heady days of big body-on-frame luxury SUVs are over. Granted, you can still buy a Navigator. It was substantially upgraded in 2007, but in 2009 less than 8,000 units left dealer showrooms. Compare that to calendar year 2000 when nearly 38,000 units were sold; the obvious question, why bother? The answer is there are still some buyers who desire rugged high-riding seven-passenger vehicles.
But the real volume comes from more refined and more fuel-efficient car-based crossovers; at least a more refined crossover with adequate towing credentials, available all-wheel drive, and that decent fuel economy is the new ticket.
That ticket for Lincoln is the 2010 MKT.

It comes in two flavors, one with a standard 3.7-liter V-6 making an adequate 268 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, and for those who desire more performance or who have large weekend toys to tow, a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6 — known in Ford parlance as EcoBoost — generating a massive 355 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque. Outfitted correctly, the EcoBoost can tow 4,500 pounds. And it comes with all-wheel drive as standard equipment.

The MKT is a luxury version of the boxy, but engaging Ford Flex. The lines and corners have been softened, the roof flows down into a shapely rear, and a huge rendition of the current Lincoln grille has been affixed to the front end to give the MKT a distinctive look. We like the boldness of Flex, but we also very much like the shapely contours of the MKT, which evokes a more luxury persona.

The MKT styling gives Lincoln an air of distinctiveness, something missing in recent designs, a return — if ever so slightly — to the elegant styling of the long past. But as in many design exercises, there is a price to pay. And the price in this case is compromised third-row space. The sloping roof makes headroom painfully limited for anyone over about five-foot tall.

Getting to the third row is easy due to the power folding second-row chairs. It’s a perfect place to stick a couple of children, and with the rear seats folded flat, storage behind the second-row seats is a healthy 39.6 cubic feet. There’s a useable 17.9 cubic feet behind the third row that we discovered easily swallowed up four roll-aboard pilot cases.

While the third row has its downsides, the second-row — especially with bucket seats and a center console that includes a real honest-to-goodness refrigerator — is a spacious paradise for two people. The passenger area comes complete with foot rests and can be equipped with a power panoramic vista roof that can be retracted for fresh-air lovers. Nice touches are the rocker panels that have been integrated into the doors reducing the width of the door sill for improved entry and exit.

We were impressed with the Lincoln’s quiet cabin and compliant ride. Also impressive is the dashboard layout that includes attractive gauges with chrome accents and a wide, flowing, handsome center console with storage behind that begins with an eight-inch touch-screen interface.

After driving the Flex EcoBoost and now the MKT version, we are still amazed at the performance the new engine provides for a 5,000-pound vehicle. The new direct injection turbo technology makes a V-6 feel like a V-8 with the gas mileage of a V-6, Ford says. And for the most part Ford is right. It’s not just hype.

In addition to the healthy towing capacity, the MKT can finish off a 0-to-60 run in just over six seconds according to several auto magazine tests and complete a quarter mile in 14.6 seconds at 97 mph. This incredible performance comes with mileage measured by the EPA at 16 mpg city and 22 mpg highway. Ford recommends using premium fuel, but regular is OK.

Here’s the thing. The standard MKT — the trim level we feel a majority of customers will purchase — comes with a very capable 3.5-liter 268-horsepower V-6 AWD at a savings of $3,000 over the EcoBoost. If you opt for front-wheel drive, the standard MKT comes in at a savings of $4,800. We think the standard V-6, with almost identical fuel economy of 15/23, will get the job done quite well.

While considerable equipment is standard across the lineup there are a number of interesting options to tempt the luxury buyer including a voice-activated hard-drive navigation system with a 14-speaker THX II Surround Audio System, dual headrest family entertainment system, adaptive cruise control, heated and cooled rear seats, and a second-row console with that five-quart capacity refrigerator.
And for good measure a new active park assist, which, like the Lexus LS 460 and other vehicles, will automatically guide the big Lincoln while trying to accomplish tricky parallel parking maneuvers.

We discovered how much easier and faster it is to park the new Lincoln than the Lexus when performing back-to-back tests, attributed to the excellent sensors on the big CUV. While we think this is a frivolous option — drivers should be skilled enough to accomplish it — it is relatively inexpensive at $595, and it works.
Our easy to live with well-equipped EcoBoost test vehicle was loaded up with several options bringing the bottom line to $57,775 for the full-sized crossover.

By Jim Meachen and Ted Biederman - MyCarData

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Lincoln MKT - replaces the Town Car

It’s no secret to most of the Lincoln faithful that sacrilege has been committed as the Town Car will be discontinued. Its platform dates to the late ‘70s and is overdue to join chauffeurs in the sky. In the place of all those black Town Cars at the airport and proms nationwide will be a MKT Town Car.

“Livery operators are looking for a leading livery solution that is reliable and stylish, and the new Lincoln livery and limousine solutions fit the bill in every capacity,” said Mark Fields, Ford president of The Americas. “The new MKT Town Car will be the best available in the livery industry, working off a solid base as the perfect way to achieve the versatility needed for executive transportation or a night out on the town.”

A higher roofline and reinforced body structure will make entering and exiting the rear quarters easier and will allow up to 10-foot extensions to the wheelbase for limousines and hearses. Short-wheelbase models will be available in front- or all-wheel drive, the later not only great for busting through winter weather, but also standard on long-wheelbase editions.

Passengers will be more comfortable than in any previous Town Car. An additional 1.5” of leg room over standard MKTs and a reclining bench seat are exceptional for weary travelers. They can also work in comfort with a rear compartment USB charging port, 110-volt power socket in the center console, and Wi-Fi hotspot capability for iPads, laptops, and other mobile devices. Audio systems are controlled from the front through Ford’s Sync system or through rear seat controls. Voice activated navigation makes it easy for drivers to plot a quick course.
It seems Lincoln has thoroughly re-thought the limousine. In no time at all, the new MKT Town Car will make you forget there was ever another.

By Casey Williams - MyCarData

7:46 AM | 0 comments | Read More

Lincoln Presents MKT Town Car and Limousine Editions

For the past 30 years, Lincoln's panther platform-based Town Car has offered its services to a great number of limousine and chauffer operators throughout the country and abroad, but production of the current model will finally come to an end this fall leaving a gap in the company's range.
But FoMoCo isn't about to let go of this financially prosperous niche segment. At the 2011 International LCT (Limousine, Charter, and Tour) show in Las Vegas, Lincoln unveiled the car's successors in the form of the chauffeur-dedicated and MKT-based Town Car Livery and Limousine editions.
“Livery operators are looking for a leading livery solution that is reliable and stylish, and the new Lincoln livery and limousine solutions fit the bill in every capacity,” said Mark Fields, Ford president of The Americas. “The new MKT Town Car will be the best available in the livery industry, working off a solid base as the perfect way to achieve the versatility needed for executive transportation or a night out on the town.”

The company said that the Lincoln MKT Town Car Livery version uses a standard MKT chassis and is available in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations, while the heavy-duty Limousine chassis will feature standard all-wheel drive for stretched wheelbase limousine conversion of up to an additional 120 inches (10 feet).
Notable changes on the MKT Town Car Livery include the redesigned rear seating that been moved rearward by 1.5 inches for additional legroom and improved comfort, while there's also a switch on the rear passenger side door that allows a rear seat passenger to control the front passenger seat ahead. Key features include a USB charging port, a 110-volt power socket in the rear seat center console, and Wi-Fi hotspot capability for mobile tablets, laptops and other devices.
Lincoln said that the MKT Town Car Limousine chassis incorporates several heavy-duty components, such as upgraded suspension, electric power-assisted steering system (EPAS) and transmission, plus unique wheels, tires and wheel bearings and an upsized brake system. The Limousine also has the standard MKT's third seating row removed, and comes equipped with a full-size spare tire.
Both variants of the MKT Town Car will be manufactured at Oakville Assembly Complex with production set to begin next spring.

photos

 
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U Spy: Reader Scoops Mystery Sedan in California, What is it?

We're pretty proud of the fact that over the years, many of our readers here on Carscoop have seized the moment to become the ones who create the news with their spy shots, like Nick K. who snagged the first ever photos of the Toyota Prius minivan last September.

The latest reader to join our list of car-scoopers is Jay Davis who photographed a heavily camouflaged four-door sedan prototype in California. "I saw this test mule in Agoura Hills, CA today. It had Michigan manufacturers plates. Not sure what it is," Jay told us.

A lot of names including Nissan, Buick and Lincoln were thrown around during our chat with Jay, but ultimately, we're still in the dark about the brand and model hiding beneath the camo. Can anyone help us solve the mystery? Leave your thoughts in the comment section after the break.

Many thanks to Jay for the scoop pics!

_______________________________GALLERY_______________________________

12:27 PM | 0 comments | Read More

U Spy: Reader Scoops Mystery Sedan in California, What is it?

We're pretty proud of the fact that over the years, many of our readers here on Carscoop have seized the moment to become the ones who create the news with their spy shots, like Nick K. who snagged the first ever photos of the Toyota Prius minivan last September.

The latest reader to join our list of car-scoopers is Jay Davis who photographed a heavily camouflaged four-door sedan prototype in California. "I saw this test mule in Agoura Hills, CA today. It had Michigan manufacturers plates. Not sure what it is," Jay told us.

A lot of names including Nissan, Buick and Lincoln were thrown around during our chat with Jay, but ultimately, we're still in the dark about the brand and model hiding beneath the camo. Can anyone help us solve the mystery? Leave your thoughts in the comment section after the break.

Many thanks to Jay for the scoop pics!

_______________________________GALLERY_______________________________

12:27 PM | 0 comments | Read More

Lincoln Presents MKT Town Car and Limousine Editions to Replace Panther-Based Town Car

For the past 30 years, Lincoln's panther platform-based Town Car has offered its services to a great number of limousine and chauffer operators throughout the country and abroad, but production of the current model will finally come to an end this fall leaving a gap in the company's range.

But FoMoCo isn't about to let go of this financially prosperous niche segment. At the 2011 International LCT (Limousine, Charter, and Tour) show in Las Vegas, Lincoln unveiled the car's successors in the form of the chauffeur-dedicated and MKT-based Town Car Livery and Limousine editions.

“Livery operators are looking for a leading livery solution that is reliable and stylish, and the new Lincoln livery and limousine solutions fit the bill in every capacity,” said Mark Fields, Ford president of The Americas. “The new MKT Town Car will be the best available in the livery industry, working off a solid base as the perfect way to achieve the versatility needed for executive transportation or a night out on the town.”

The company said that the Lincoln MKT Town Car Livery version uses a standard MKT chassis and is available in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations, while the heavy-duty Limousine chassis will feature standard all-wheel drive for stretched wheelbase limousine conversion of up to an additional 120 inches (10 feet).

Notable changes on the MKT Town Car Livery include the redesigned rear seating that been moved rearward by 1.5 inches for additional legroom and improved comfort, while there's also a switch on the rear passenger side door that allows a rear seat passenger to control the front passenger seat ahead. Key features include a USB charging port, a 110-volt power socket in the rear seat center console, and Wi-Fi hotspot capability for mobile tablets, laptops and other devices.

Lincoln said that the MKT Town Car Limousine chassis incorporates several heavy-duty components, such as upgraded suspension, electric power-assisted steering system (EPAS) and transmission, plus unique wheels, tires and wheel bearings and an upsized brake system. The Limousine also has the standard MKT's third seating row removed, and comes equipped with a full-size spare tire.

Both variants of the MKT Town Car will be manufactured at Oakville Assembly Complex with production set to begin next spring.

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Lincoln MKX - Transporation in a tuxedo

Virtually unchanged for 2010, the Lincoln MKX is the near-luxury interpretation of Ford's Edge. Sure there are some slight standard content differences between the $39,695 MKX and its near twin, the $33,995 Edge Limited; but they are few, and certainly fail to explain the $5,700 price disparity.



If you can get along with 6-way power front seats rather than 10-way ones, and a manual liftgate as opposed to a power one, you might just want to consider choosing the Edge while pocketing the several thousand bucks exercising such restraint will save you. If the Lincoln luxury cachet, however, is a must have for you, the MKX is the way to go.

The MKX does look a tad more luxurious than the Edge, inside and out. Although much of the sheetmetal is the same, the snouts and tails represent some real differences. This is particularly true of the rear-end treatments. Here MKX with its taillight strip crossing the entire width of the tailgate certainly looks more upscale than Edge. Likewise a dollop of extra brightwork and some wood trim gives the MKX cabin a richer look than the interior of the Edge.

However the result of this bit of badge engineering razzle dazzle is sister crossovers where similarities far outweigh differences. Under the hood of each, for example, labors a 265-horsepower 3.5-liter V6. The same six-speed automatic transmission hustles engine production to either the front or all four wheels in both vehicles. OK in the Edge, but a notable omission in the up-market MKX is the lack of a manual-shift mode offering the driver the choice of picking shift points himself. Opting for all-wheel drive in either the Edge or MKX will set you back an additional $1,850.

Not surprising, using the same V6 and automatic tranny produces identical EPA-estimated fuel economy. For FWD versions the EPA numbers are 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. The the Cadillac SRX and Lexus RX 350 post similar EPA mileage stats. Scrubbing off some the efficiency of an MKX so equipped, the added pounds of AWD reduce the EPA estimates to 17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. All of these numbers are at least 1 mpg better than in 2009.

Going about its work quietly, the V6 will probably leave performance-oriented drivers wishing for more. It's not that it is sluggish when the red light goes green; it manages to keep up with traffic just fine. However it is more of a cruiser than a sprinter. This is particularly apparent when attempting to pass another vehicle while at speed.

In tuning the four-wheel independent suspension, Lincoln has given the nod to comfort. Ride quality trumps acute handling. The MKX feels very much like a big sedan with a suspension that soaks up most surface imperfections. MacPherson struts in front and a multilink setup in the rear are the main components. Stabilizer bars on both ends tie together each side of the suspension and help minimize body roll. There is still some sway when speeding around corners, but it's not excessive. MKX rides on 18-inch alloy wheels and rubber.
Offering the full battery of related safety features, the antilock system overseeing the four-wheel ventilated disk brakes includes traction control, stability control, electronic brakeforce distribution and emergency braking assist.

In a contest of the tape, only the half inch of extra front-seat legroom in the SRX is an advantage for the Cadillac over MKX. In nearly every other interior measurement the MKX exceeds its domestic rival. Rear-seat legroom is a generous 39.6 inches and only NBA players will need to remove their hats in a front seat with 40 inches of headroom. Pushing a button raises the power rear liftgate revealing 31.8 cubic inches of luggage space behind the 60/40 split, fold-down, reclining second-row seat. Folding that seat flat boosts cargo-carrying capacity to 69 cubic feet.

Up to five people can enjoy the amenity-packed cabin. Beyond the roomy accommodations, is a grocery list of standard content. There is only one well-equipped trim level. Included in the base price are a trip computer, eight-way heated power front seats with two-drivers memory, leather seating, full power accessories, six airbags, heated outboard mirrors, tilt-telescoping leather/wood steering wheel with redundant audio controls, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a six-speaker audio system with in-dash six-CD changer, satellite radio, auxiliary input jack, USB, and iPod integration. It also features the Ford Sync hands-free Bluetooth system.

A $995 THX II premium 5.1 surround-sound system adds seven speakers and a subwoofer to the audio set up. For $2,990 you can add the upgraded audio system and a hard drive-based navigation system with a 6.5-inch display, 10 GB hard drive for music and data storage, and a DVD player.

More polished than the interior in Ford's version, the MKX cabin is a pleasant mixture of leather, chrome accents and faux wood trim. Inviting and surprisingly supportive, the front seats offer better-than-average side bolsters and generous bottom cushions. Cascading down, the center stack contains controls for the audio, climate control and optional navigation systems before winding up at a spacious center-console storage bin with a padded armrest. Like the Edge, MKX uses a four-gauge -- two large and two small -- cluster to keep the driver informed; however, where the gauges are round in the Edge, they are square in the MKX.
Tasteful, competent and up-level, the MKX is enjoyable to drive. It may be a gussied up Edge, but if you prefer your transportation in a tuxedo rather than Dockers, MKX is your kind of ride.

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