14 years after the Lincoln Continental nameplate was discontinued, a new and revamped model carrying the same nameplate is set to make a comeback. This is the third time the model is making a comeback.
Almost a year after its concept was unveiled at the 2015 New York Auto Show; the new generation which the automaker claims is meant to redefine the word luxury broke its covers at the 2016 Detroit Auto Show. I hope that the Continental will have a long stay this time round.
The sedan will play the flagship role it played earlier before being downsized in the 1990s. It will replace the discontinued MKS sedan and is meant to impart a different kind of luxury far from what we know traditionally.
According to Lincoln president, Kumar Galhotra, the new sedan is set to take the “Continental” name which is associated with the Lincoln’s ultimate beauty and luxury to the next level. Kumar continued to say that their aim is to create a vehicle tailored to create more human and tailored experiences for their clients.
2017 Lincoln Continental Exterior
The exterior design is modern and brings about a new sense of elegance. The sedan is based on the global architecture platform on which the likes of MKX, MKZ and Ford Fusion are based. The 2017 Lincoln Continental comes with a distinctive design denoted by its new grille texture which features a mesh of the automaker’s vertical Lincoln shield outline.
It also features a new bumper design with large air inlets making the front fascia look more aggressive. The grille is flanked by LED headlights. Still on the rear, its trunk-lid stretches to its bumper and also features large chrome letters spelling the word ”Continental” as opposed to its brand name. Its taillights are housed in new clusters and are interconnected by a LED strip making the rear very elegant.
The rear also has a mild lid spoiler and dual exhaust outlets. On the sides, you will see large mirrors, black window detailing and a fender badge with the “Continental” lettering. Also, the side-look features redesigned skirts and multi-spoke rims. Though its design is not that distinctive it manages to still standout albeit “quietly”. The sedan has a unique way of welcoming the driver using lighting effects as he approaches with the key. The lighting effect kick starts at the front with LED lighting on the lower fascia followed by tail lamps while the headlights also awaken in a fluid motion. Mat lights then illuminate the pavement around front doors.
On the inside, select lights illuminate the cabin to complete the effect. Its door handles offer effortless entry courtesy of E-latch door release which is wisely integrated in its beltline. This ensures the side look remains clean. Doors open via the touch of a button and automatically close and secure courtesy of a power-cinching technology. The vehicle also has a sunroof whose front half slides over the rear half creating an open-air driving experience for all passengers.
2017 Lincoln Continental Interior
The automaker defines the Lincoln Continental’s interior as serene; one that helps occupants rejuvenates. To aid in this endeavor are “Perfect Positioned Seats” which are inspired by high-end office furniture and private jet seats.
These seats are 30-way power adjustable. What’s more, the seats are heated and cooled as well as offer massage functions. The seats adjust according to one’s body shape; they also offer thigh extensions to help reduce muscle fatigue.
First class amenities to rear passengers
People who buy these types of luxury machines prefer to be chauffeured rather than drive themselves around while they sit and relax at the back. With this understanding, Lincoln has crafted the rear compartment to offer first-class amenities. The rear passengers will have access to audio and climate controls. Other features include reclining seats, sunshades, and heated cooled and massaging seats. All passengers enjoy ample leg room.
In terms of entertainment, passengers will fall in love with the Revel® sound system. The system has been designed to work in collaboration with the acoustics and interior design to transform the Continental’s cabin to a small amphitheater. The amphitheater has three listening modes (Stereo, Audience and On Stage). E-latch release technology is used to ensure optimal positioning of the speakers in the vehicle’s doors. Acoustic laminated glass as well as Active Voice Control creates a quiet and serene environment suitable for conversation or even contemplation.
Fine leather is the standard upholstery material on the seats, console, instrument panel and the steering wheel. The leather upholstery in contrasted with either 6 or 7 stitches per inch which result in a couture-like effect. Artesia aluminum and genuine wood trims are also featured on the cabin. Slats of its center console are cut using laser to ensure grain pattern consistency.
Buyers looking for the highest level of Lincoln luxury can opt for one of the three Lincoln Black label themes; they are Thoroughbred, Chalet and the exclusive Rhapsody.
The vehicle is also loaded with technological features such as adaptable steering and suspension, pedestrian detection, pre-collision brake assist, perpendicular and parallel park assist and adaptive cruise control among others.
Engine Specs
Unlike what many people expected, the Continental will feature V-6 engines as opposed to V-8 units that used to power earlier versions of the model.
The base models will be powered by a 3.7 L, V-6 engine good for 300 hp. Further up will be a twin-turbocharged 2.7 L, V-6 capable of producing 325 hp.
The top of the range model comes with a 3.0 L, twin-turbocharged V-6 engine which is capable of pumping a whole 400 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque. This engine will be paired with a Dynamic Torque Vectoring system which improves its stability and handling. Though the automaker has not announced an official transmission, a 9-speed automatic system is likely. This system will send power to either front or all wheels via an all-wheel drive system.
The sedan is also fitted with three driving modes which are Normal, Comfort and Sport. These modes adapt the vehicles steering and suspension to suitable driving conditions while its adaptive steering optimizes the sedan’s response to the driver’s input .This engine also comes with the ability to channel power between the rear wheels during cornering.
Price and release date
The automaker will debut the model in the fall of this year. The Lincoln Continental’s price will be announced when the model nears its release. However if the rumors are true, the vehicle will cost less than the Navigator. Therefore, expect a price starting from $ 50,000 or there about.
2017 Lincoln Continental Pictures From 2016 NAIAS Detroit
Competition
The Lincoln luxury flagship sedan will point its guns to the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Cadillac CT6, Audi A8 and BMW 7 Series.
