Lincoln MKC, 2015

 

 

 Lincoln MKC, 2015

The Lincoln Motor Company's reinvention takes a major step forward with the unveiling of the all-new 2015 Lincoln MKC small premium utility vehicle.

The Lincoln MKC is a unique creation from the ground up with an assortment of first-in-class features. Its all-new 2.3-liter EcoBoost® engine offers excellent performance while its ingeniously implemented wraparound liftgate is an example of masterful customer convenience.

The luxurious interior embraces driver and passengers alike, and its new and innovative technology personalizes the MKC ownership experience. Lincoln MKC follows the MKZ sedan to become the second all-new Lincoln in as many years as the brand continues its reinvention.

Building the right vehicle at the right time
Lincoln MKC - first introduced as a concept vehicle at the 2013 North American International Auto Show in Detroit - represents a critical milestone in the company's plan to expand its lineup.

Arriving on the heels of the all-new and successful 2013 Lincoln MKZ sedan, MKC becomes the second new vehicle in the brand's plans to introduce four new luxury vehicles by 2016.

MKC gives Lincoln a compelling offering in the small premium utility vehicle segment, the fastest-growing part of the luxury market. The segment has grown by 25 percent since 2012 and by more than 200 percent since 2009. The segment growth is being driven by new luxury buyers who are coming into affluence, as well as by current luxury owners who are moving from larger vehicles to smaller ones as their life desires change.

With MKC, Lincoln continues its move toward targeting a younger, more diverse customer. The vehicle also positions Lincoln to resonate with drivers in desirable markets on the East and West coasts.

Designed to inspire inside and out
The Lincoln design team faced the dual challenge of creating a standout vehicle in a competitive field, while further refining the Lincoln design DNA that started with the 2013 MKZ. From its signature split-wing grille to its uniquely crafted, hands-free wraparound liftgate, the Lincoln DNA is evident.

"Our design team worked tirelessly to create a vehicle that attracts new customers to the brand while meeting the expectations of longtime Lincoln drivers," said Max Wolff, director, Lincoln Design. "The execution of the new liftgate is a prime example of how a premium design element can create a better customer experience."

Lincoln MKC presents a sleek, sculpted body that helps it stand out among peers. Its high beltline and low shoulders create a sturdy, athletic presence, while features such as soft exterior lighting, pedestal side-view mirrors and an available panoramic, all-glass Vista Roof® give the vehicle a luxurious, sophisticated personality.

The unique design also carries through to the interior, where craftsmanship and high-tech combine to offer a warm, luxurious environment. An architecturally unique instrument panel showcases Lincoln's signature push-button gear shifter, which provides an open, inviting interior space. Plush leathers with French stitching, and available Bridge of Weir leather and real wood trim accentuate MKC's elegance and grace.

To be more consistent with the Lincoln driving experience, an all-new Lincoln steering wheel debuts on Lincoln MKC and will be available on all future Lincoln vehicles. This highly tactile leather-wrapped wheel provides better feeling and control and puts the brand's new design DNA in the driver's hands.

The enhanced THX® II Certified Audio System, an industry-first featuring THX-distributed bass technology and 14 right-, center- and left-slot speaker assemblies, is available. The state-of-the-art audio system delivers a rich, immersive surround sound experience that reproduces music as it was mixed in the studio.

SYNC with MyLincoln Touch enables drivers to personalize MKC by using voice-activated commands or simple touch controls on the class-exclusive 8-inch touch screen. Knobs and buttons on the center console provide additional and easy access to control the air conditioning and sound system.

Lincoln luxury meets dynamic performance
When equipped with the all-new 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, Lincoln MKC offers a projected 275 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 300 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,000 rpm, according to preliminary test data. Class-exclusive Active Grille Shutters are designed to help improve Lincoln MKC fuel efficiency at highway speeds.

Lincoln MKC comes standard with a 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder turbocharged engine, projected to produce 240 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 270 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,000 rpm, according to preliminary test data. This makes Lincoln MKC an all-EcoBoost vehicle.

Lincoln MKC comes standard with front-wheel drive and 18-inch wheels. Drivers can upgrade to Lincoln's Intelligent All-Wheel Drive and 19-inch wheels for enhanced cornering and handling and an even sportier look.

The Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system also includes Continuously Controlled Damping. Drivers can use Lincoln Drive Control to select from sport, comfort and normal drive modes to cater to their driving mood. CCD constantly monitors the road; the suspension reacts on average within 20 milliseconds, providing a smooth ride with enhanced handling.

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Lincoln MKC Concept, 2013

 

 

 

 

 

 

•  Lincoln MKC Concept, 2013

The Lincoln introduced the MKC Concept, a vision of how Lincoln will enter the industry's fastest-growing small luxury utility segment, at the 2013 NAIAS.

With nearly 60 percent growth in 2012 and more than 200 percent in the last four years, the small luxury utility segment has far eclipsed all other luxury segments. The opportunity is a key next step in Lincoln's strategy to grow with four all-new vehicles targeted at the highest-growth segments over the next four years.

The segment growth is being driven at both ends of the demographic spectrum. Many new buyers are coming into affluence and purchasing their first luxury vehicle. Others are moving from larger vehicles to smaller ones to simplify their lives. This growth includes China, where Lincoln will begin selling in the second half of 2014 through independent dealers.

Creating 'Lincoln Experiences'
Lincoln is being reinvented in every way - from a complete new lineup of stunningly designed vehicles to how dealerships provide surprising personal client services and how drivers engage with their vehicles. The goal is to appeal to a new type of luxury clients considered cultural progressives, who are open to new ideas and experiences.

In current and future vehicles, these "Lincoln Experiences" will include a variety of distinctive features, such as push-button transmission engagement, programmable ride control, unique and diverse powertrains, personalized lighting, and a suite of customizable functions that are unique for each client as the vehicle instantly recognizes the operator and creates a personalized welcoming sequence.

Future Lincolns also will combine these unique experiences with the option of stunning, bespoke interior and exterior design appointments that transcend typical luxury automotive standards, furthering the brand's transformation. The Lincoln MKC Concept explores many of these transformative ideas.

Exterior design
The Lincoln MKC Concept builds on the foundation of the Lincoln Design DNA found in the new MKZ. These warm, open and inviting design cues are a core element of the brand's heritage.

"The Lincoln design team has done an outstanding job with the MKC Concept in communicating Lincoln's design vision for reaching a new and discerning clientele."

An uninterrupted, highly crafted rear-view appearance highlights the signature full-width taillamps. This is made possible by a liftgate design with a side-view cutline - a Lincoln first. It shows how the dedicated Lincoln design and engineering teams have worked together to deliver customer-focused solutions that not only elevate the appearance, but also provide maximum load capability.

The continuity also is apparent in the execution of the frameless windows, which amplify the richness of the design, as does the signature split-wing grille. The exterior is augmented by warm, cream-based white metallic tri-coat paint, 20-inch premium wheels with polished chrome rims, and a large fixed panoramic roof that runs the length of the vehicle.

Interior design, colors and materials
High-end bespoke design, materials and execution inspire the four-passenger interior.

Just like MKZ - which sets the tone for the brand's thoughtful new approach to design - the Lincoln MKC Concept features a distinct push-button gear shift selector. This enables a flowing, expressive and architectural center console design covered with riveting details, and unique colors and materials.

The headliner is wrapped with high-end material, providing a warm and luxurious feel. The pillars are wrapped with premium leather. The seats also feature premium leather and include a unique embroidered Lincoln Star and crimson stitch accents.

The Lincoln Star lattice also is subtly placed on the MKC Concept's floor mats to complement the lattice design in the speaker mesh, light fixtures and lug-nut covers.

The smooth leather also wraps the door trim uppers, armrests, bolsters, console side rails, instrument panel and cargo area.

"There is a rich softness to the exterior and interior palette of the MKC Concept," said Susan Lampinen, group chief designer, Color & Material Design. "The leather-wrapped architecture complements the open-pore and designer hand-dyed woods."

Another refined details include finishes like appliqués cut from layers of reconstructed natural wood infused with a metallic flake for a glistening effect on the steering wheel, upper instrument panel and door panels.

A true Lincoln
"The Lincoln MKC Concept is designed to strike a perfect balance between warm, inviting comfort and the engaging and superb dynamic qualities of performance, ride, handling and braking," said Farley. "This balance is focused toward a new luxury automotive client emerging in the marketplace - someone who recognizes a great vehicle and demands a balance between all-out performance and comfort."

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Lincoln MKZ, 2013

 

 

 

 

•  Lincoln MKZ, 2013

Lincoln MKZ Exterior
A sweeping roofline defines the new luxury sedan's profile. The steeply raked windshield and lengthened backlight make for a sleeker and more flowing appearance that is 10 percent more aerodynamic than the model it replaces. "The MKZ shape is a vision completed with just a few strokes," said Wolff.

Though strikingly modern, the design retains classic Lincoln design elements including a more refined interpretation of the split-wing grille, first seen on the 1938 Lincoln-Zephyr.

Rearview mirrors stand on door-mounted, sculpted pedestals. This fitment enables the front door glass to extend farther forward to improve visibility and to allow even more light into the interior.

The crafted headlamp assemblies include bright, energy-efficient LED lighting. The front headlights turn in sync with the steering wheel, providing enhanced visibility. At the rear, LED technology enabled a thin, distinctive full-width taillamp graphic.

The Lincoln MKZ Interior
Design teams created an inviting interior featuring bold architectural elements, rich natural materials and fine details.

Innovation and technology abound inside the new MKZ. Replacing the traditional mechanical transmission shift lever is a contemporary five-button interface. The individual buttons of Push Button Shift engage Park, Neutral, Reverse, and forward gears in two modes, Drive and Sport.

Push Button Shift gave designers freedom to create a sculptural multi-level center console with more functional storage areas.

Positioned ahead of the driver, the full-color 10.1-inch LCD instrument cluster operates with the latest version of SYNC with MyLincoln Touch. The all-new design combines dimensional indicator rings framing a brilliant and reconfigurable Thin Film Transistor (TFT) LCD. An equally critical component of MyLincoln Touch is the nearly flush-mounted center 8-inch LCD touch screen that displays information clearly in easy-to-reference color-keyed quadrants.

Premium-grade, supple leather covers all seating surfaces. Responsibly harvested wood and metal-toned surfaces create a luxurious and comfortable interior space.

Standard luxury amenities include an 11-speaker audiophile entertainment system and cabin air filtration, plus heated front seats (with the driver's featuring 10-way power controls), remote start capabilities and Active Noise Control.

To make the Lincoln MKZ exceptionally quiet, ANC electronically targets frequencies and reduces their intensity. To improve the refinement of the driving experience, other frequencies are subtly enhanced.

The available THX II Certified Car Audio System is a Lincoln-exclusive that features 700 watts, 14 channels and 14 speakers. THX audio engineers spent more than 200 hours custom tuning the THX-certified equipment to the new MKZ's interior. The result delivers home-theater surround sound to the road.

The new Lincoln MKZ is the only sedan in its class to offer inflatable second-row outboard seat belts. Rear-seat passengers - often children or mature passengers - can be more vulnerable to head, chest and neck injuries. The available inflatable second-row, outboard seat belts spread impact forces across more than five times the area of conventional belts, reducing pressure on the chest while helping to control head and neck motion and helping reduce the risk of injuries.

Camera- and Radar-Based Driving Aids
The new Lincoln MKZ offers the Lane Keeping System, a suite of advanced driving aids that helps drivers avoid drifting from their lane due to distraction or fatigue. Consisting of Lane Keeping Aid, Lane Keeping Alert and Driver Assist, the Lane Keeping System utilizes a mono-vision camera integrated into the rearview mirror to read the lane markers ahead.

Available radar-based (ultrasonic) driving aids further enhance the driving experience. Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision Warning with Brake Support each use a long-range radar system that scans in front of the vehicle, automatically adjusting to traffic speed and providing a visual and audible alert when a potential front-end collision is detected.

Active park assist and Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with cross-traffic alert use multiple short-range wide-angle radar sensors. Each function provides a distinct benefit, ranging from making parallel parking easier to warning of oncoming vehicles while backing out of a parking space.

SYNC with MyLincoln Touch
SYNC with MyLincoln Touch is standard in the new MKZ. The combined system makes it easier to use the entertainment, climate and available navigation features as well as devices brought into the car (e.g., phones, PDA, MP3 players). Twin five-way controls on the steering wheel manage essential systems, and many functions can be voice-activated via SYNC.

Standard SYNC Services make turn-by-turn directions available via one button push and simple voice commands. Continually improving voice recognition software learns user voices, improving the efficiency of voice commands.

Lincoln MKZ Dynamic Driving Technologies
The new MKZ offers Lincoln Drive Control as standard. Lincoln Drive Control is an automatic system that delivers an ideal balance of a smooth ride with confident handling as it intuitively responds to driver commands and the road, making the 2013 model the most refined and engaging MKZ ever.

Always on, Lincoln Drive Control orchestrates the performance of the Continuously Controlled Damping (CCD) adjustable suspension, electric power-assisted steering (EPAS), engine, transmission, Active Noise Control (ANC), traction control and stability control systems.

The result is an unsurpassed combination of refined ride and engaging driving dynamics. CCD offers three modes (Sport/Normal/Comfort) that are accessible using MyLincoln Touch. Selecting "Sport" on the Push Button Shift gear selector enables a decidedly more sporty driving experience.

CCD contributes to Lincoln Drive Control's transparent action by monitoring the car's suspension settings up to 500 times per second. The real-time system adjusts the suspension up to 50 times per second to deliver more controlled handling with a smoother ride. CCD augments a highly developed chassis that includes a refined strut front suspension and an all new integral link rear suspension.

The new Lincoln MKZ is the only sedan in its class to include Continuously Controlled Damping and Active Noise Control as standard equipment.

MKZ Engines, Transmissions and Drive Systems
The 2013 Lincoln MKZ offers three distinct powertrains. The standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost® delivers the performance of a traditional V6 along with expected segment-leading fuel economy that is at least 3 mpg better than the closest competitor. This engine delivers a projected 20-percent increase in highway fuel economy versus the 2012 MKZ.

Emphasizing performance and efficiency, the optional 3.7-liter V6 produces significantly more power (37 horsepower and 28 lb.-ft. of torque) than the previous Lincoln MKZ V6 while improving fuel economy approximately 5 percent.

Maximizing fuel efficiency, the optional 2.0-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain is expected to enable the 2013 MKZ Hybrid to remain North America's most fuel-efficient premium sedan. The 2012 MKZ Hybrid is rated at 41 city mpg, 36 highway mpg.

Non-hybrid models utilize a six-speed automatic transmission. Standard paddle shifters mounted behind the steering wheel add to the performance driving experience of the Lincoln MKZ.

Improving grip on slippery roads, the available all-wheel-drive (AWD) system anticipates and adjusts the power delivery to the front and rear axles in as little as 16 milliseconds, faster than the blink of an eye.

Retractable Panoramic Roof
The Retractable Panoramic Roof is a new signature feature for Lincoln. The 15.2-square-foot glass panel offers one of the largest openings available on any current sedan. The design maintains the structural strength of a steel-roof vehicle.

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Lincoln MKT, 2013

 

 

 

 Lincoln MKT, 2013

The Lincoln MKT full-size crossover offers a dramatically improved ride, sharper handling, better fuel economy and new safety technologies including rear inflatable seat belts for the 2013 model year, providing customers benefits and features that match or exceed more expensive competitors.

NEW STYLING
The changes ensure a recognizable Lincoln family look going forward. The grille and front fascia all are new, as are the wheel selections.

THREE-ROW INTERIOR
Inside, functional, styling and safety updates transform the already distinctive and roomy interior of the new Lincoln MKT into an even more welcoming, luxurious and technologically advanced space.

The significantly revised interior complements the airy feeling afforded by the standard Panoramic Fixed-glass Vista Roof.

The Lincoln MKT offers three rows of seating configured in six- and seven-passenger alternatives. Highlighting the emphasis on first-class travel, those riding in the second row enjoy more legroom than any vehicle in this class. The second-row seats can also be heated and cooled. The second-row refrigerator (integrated into the center console) remains a popular option.

MYLINCOLN TOUCH
Drivers particularly benefit from the latest upgrade of MyLincoln Touch hardware that equips the new MKT with Lincoln's most advanced HMI or Human-Machine Interface.

The all-new instrumentation features a central speedometer flanked by two full-color reconfigurable LCD screens. The 4.2-inch LCD screens are controlled by five-way buttons on the steering wheel. The 8-inch multi-function LCD touch screen dominates the center stack and provides the visual and control interface for the entertainment system, phone, navigation and climate control.

The INFOTAINMENT SYSTEMS
Lincoln MKT offers two audio systems, both controlled through MyLincoln Touch. The standard system includes AM/FM/CD/MP3/satellite sources playing through a 210-watt system that drives eight speakers.

The optional hardware is the THX II Certified Car Audio System that brings home-theater sound to the open road. The 700-watt system plays through 14 strategically aimed premium audio speakers. Sources include AM/FM/CD6/DVD/MP3/HD Radio plus an auxiliary input jack and a USB port. SiriusXM satellite radio with six-month prepaid subscription is standard.

Sirius XM Traffic and SiriusXM Travel Link with voice-activated navigation controls are available. A prepaid subscription to SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link is included when the available SD card-based navigation system is selected. MyLincoln Touch and SYNC enable voice-activated navigation control. In addition to an easily updateable navigation database, additional Sirius features include coast-to-coast weather data, forecasts, fuel prices, sports scores, movie listings and more.

CRAFTED, NATURAL, COMFORTABLE
Standard 12-way adjustable front seats, adjustable pedals and power tilt/telescoping steering wheel help accommodate a wide range of drivers.

The leather surfaces for the first two rows of seating are provided by the Bridge of Weir leather company. Sourced from Scotland, Bridge of Weir leather can also be found in luxury jets, yachts and covering fine furniture.
The company uses a unique organic tanning method, which produces leather free of chromium - making it one of the most environmentally friendly and fully recyclable leathers available. French and Deck seams add to the interior's high level of finish.

The seat cushions, head restraints and seat backs are made with soy foam, which has a lower environmental impact than petroleum-based foams. In addition, the soy-based materials deliver excellent performance and offer equivalent comfort and durability.

The heated steering wheel is a welcome new option for drivers who live in colder climates. A thin metal element under the wheel's leather-wrapped rim can raise the rim's surface temperature from minus 4 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 20 degrees Celsius) to 74F (23C) in five minutes.
Because interior quietness is a universal luxury cue, the 2013 MKT is significantly quieter than the 2012 model. Additional noise barriers and absorbers were placed in the front wheel wells, around the shock towers, under the hood and in the trunk. The exterior mirrors also were redesigned to reduce wind noise.

IMPROVED SYNC
The next generation of the award-winning SYNC system continues to become easier to use and more robust in its operation. New, simpler screen designs improve the user interface. Larger and bolder fonts make screens easier to read. SYNC's voice recognition experience, powered by Nuance, also improves.

Microsoft's Windows Embedded Auto software platform continues to be the operating platform that will deliver faster response times. SYNC has evolved from a stand-alone module for communication and entertainment to become a fully integrated operating system for Lincoln vehicles with MyLincoln Touch.

As a further enhancement to the SYNC experience, the standard system in the 2013 Lincoln MKT provides Operator Assist as a standard SYNC Services feature, allowing users to connect with a live person free of charge.
SYNC also enables the interior of the Lincoln MKT to become a Wi-Fi hot spot when linked to a data-enabled cellular device. With active Wi-Fi, passengers can link to the Web on gaming systems, PDAs, tables and laptops.

POWERTRAIN
The standard engine for 2013 is a more powerful and efficient 3.7-liter V6 that includes twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT). The ability to vary camshaft timing to optimize the opening and closing of intake and exhaust valves increases the engine's power and efficiency.

Horsepower for 2013 increases to 300 from 268, a 10 percent increase achieved with projected fuel economy ratings that improve to 17 mpg city, 25 mpg highway, a 1 mpg highway improvement. The Lincoln MKT now offers more standard horsepower than the Audi Q7 and Acura MDX and nearly matches the 302-hp Mercedes-Benz R350.

Fuel economy for the Lincoln MKT achieved on regular unleaded fuel surpasses these competitors by as much as 4 mpg highway.

3.5-LITER ECOBOOST V6
Nine out of 10 MKT retail customers opt for twin-turbo 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6, an engine that provides V8 performance with the fuel economy of a V6. In terms of horsepower from optional engines, the Lincoln MKT fitted with EcoBoost has no direct competition.

The 3.5-liter gasoline turbo direct-injected (GTDI) engine produces 355 horsepower at 5,700 rpm and an expansive torque curve that plateaus at 350 lb.-ft. of torque from 1,500 to 5,250 rpm. Fuel economy is projected to be 16 mpg city, 22 mpg highway. The EcoBoost V6 earned a slot on Ward's 2010 "10 Best Engines" honoree list the year it was introduced.

EFFICIENT SIX-SPEED TRANSMISSIONS
Lincoln MKT is equipped with two versions of the six-speed SelectShift Automatic transmission, both with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. The 3.7-liter Ti-VCT V6 uses the 6F-50, and the more powerful 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 uses the heavy-duty 6F-55. This transmission features high-energy friction materials, a larger ring gear and a specific torque converter that optimize the 6F-55 to handle the high-torque output of the twin-turbo 3.5-liter.

These gearboxes offer the driver a choice between fully automatic operation and manual control. Intuitive to operate, a squeeze back on either paddle will deliver an upshift, while a gentle push forward on either paddle will induce a matched-rev downshift. Unlike some competitive transmissions, SelectShift won't second guess the driver with an override shift. The manual control is truly controlled by the driver.

ALL-WHEEL DRIVE
All-wheel drive is standard with the twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6. In good weather over smooth roads at modest speeds - when AWD is not needed - the system intelligently routes power only to the front wheels, improving fuel efficiency.

When driver input or road conditions indicate that slip might occur, the system sends power rearward to help prevent tire slip from happening in the first place (such as on rain-slicked or snow-covered roads).

A myriad of inputs enables the computer-controlled system to identify and immediately react - in as little as 16 milliseconds - to changing road conditions and driver demands. The amount of torque sent to the rear axle varies depending on road conditions and dynamic needs.

NEW CHASSIS TECHNOLOGY
Making a full-size crossover ride smoothly but handle well can be a real challenge.

Continuously Controlled Damping (CCD) is fitted to the new Lincoln MKT when the crossover is equipped with the optional 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine. The adjustable suspension enables a more confident driving experience that defines the Lincoln DNA balance of ride comfort and handling. Regardless of road conditions, drivers will enjoy a markedly smoother, more controlled ride because CCD is always tuning and refining the ride quality.

The fully integrated system delivers its on-road benefit by significantly expanding the chassis's capabilities compared to a chassis with nonadjustable struts and shock absorbers, known as dampers by chassis engineers.

REAL-TIME DAMPING
Compared to the fixed-rate damper standard on the 2012 MKT, the CCD damper on the 2013 MKT offers dramatically expanded control range. CCD utilizes 46 inputs to feed data to a sophisticated control unit that continuously monitors more than 23,000 packets of information per second.

The CCD control module reacts to the data by calculating the optimal damping force every 2 milliseconds or 500 times per second. Mechanical adjustments typically occur 20 times per second, but can be as rapid as 50 times per second. On average, large damper force adjustments (such as firm to soft) occur in just 11 milliseconds. For engineers, mechanical actions that occur in less than 13 milliseconds are considered real-time actions.

CCD constantly reads the road surface and continuously adjusts the suspension in real time within the three selectable ranges - Sport, Normal and Comfort. CCD operates so quickly that it can react pre-emptively.

CCD recognizes, for example, when the Lincoln MKT is about to encounter a typical pothole. The system instantly tightens damper control to prevent the wheel and tire from crashing down into the full depth of the pothole. Typically, the damping rate increases by more than 150 percent vs. the system's softest setting, helping to smooth out an otherwise harsh and jarring event. The system is so quick that inputs received at the front wheels are used to prepare the rear wheels to deliver a better driving experience.

"CCD is always active, refining the ride of the new MKT," said Brian Naspinsky, Lincoln Vehicle Integration engineer. "CCD helps reduce body roll by up to 20 percent, making the MKT feel tighter and more buttoned down. Understeer on the MKT has been reduced by approximately 25 percent, so the car feels more eager and ready to respond. Simultaneously, CCD also makes it possible to provide a smoother, more confident ride over virtually any road surface."

LINCOLN DRIVE CONTROL
Three distinct driving modes - Sport, Normal and Comfort - are easy to select using the MKT's new Lincoln Drive Control and the shift lever.

Lincoln Drive Control enables drivers to change the driving personality of the Lincoln MKT:
    Normal mode - When the gear selector is in Drive, Lincoln Drive Control delivers the ideal Lincoln ride, balancing comfort with confident control and handling. Many drivers will find this setting perfect for commuting and everyday driving. This mode provides an engaging drive experience and a direct connection to the road without sacrificing the expected comfort and smoothness
    Sport mode - When the gear selector is in Sport, Lincoln Drive Control transforms this crossover's personality into a more performance-oriented machine. The following systems change settings in Sport mode:
    The CCD suspension switches from operating in its normal range to its firmest sport range (25 to 30 percent more control than Normal), emphasizing handling
    The electric power-assisted steering recalibrates to provide more road feel and greater steering effort
    The engine responds more directly to the driver's inputs
    The transmission upshifts at higher rpm, downshifts become more aggressive, and the transmission will hold gears longer and while in corners. Additionally, sixth gear is locked out
    Traction control and electronic stability control settings are also modified to allow more spirited driving

In addition to Normal and Sport, Lincoln Drive Control offers the Comfort mode. When drivers want the most relaxed driving experience, the Settings menu in MyLincoln Touch offers easy access to the Comfort mode.

The Comfort mode instructs the CCD suspension to run in its smoothest range. The dampers exert 10 to 15 percent less control compared with Normal. The electric power-assisted steering system also reduces the effort needed to turn the wheel at low speeds, for example, as when parking.

The STEERING
The steering system for the new MKT is improved, too. The gear ratio is quicker (15:1 for 2013 vs. 17.1:1 for 2012), making the steering more immediately responsive.

All new Lincoln MKT models benefit from electric power-assisted steering. EPAS replaces the traditional hydraulic-assist power-steering pump with an electric motor. This helps save fuel because the motor operates only when assistance is required, unlike hydraulic systems that run continuously. EPAS was standard on 2010-12 MKT models with the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 and is now standard on all Lincoln MKT models. The new EPAS parallels CCD in how it provides a tunable driving experience and an expanded range of adjustability.

Depending on model and the Lincoln Drive Control mode (if so equipped), steering response for the new MKT improved 10 to 25 percent compared with 2012.

EPAS offers additional benefits. At lower speeds, such as when parking, EPAS provides additional boost for effortless maneuverability. At higher speeds, EPAS increases steering effort and feedback, giving drivers more precise steering control.

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Lincoln MKZ Hybrid, 2011

 

 

 

Lincoln MKZ Hybrid, 2011

Lincoln introduced its first hybrid

The new Lincoln MKZ Hybrid - a premium midsize car poised to be the most fuel-efficient luxury sedan in America. Ford Motor Company - America's largest domestic hybrid seller - is further broadening its aggressive electrification plan and second generation of hybrid technology with the new Lincoln MKZ Hybrid. The vehicle was revealed at the 2010 New York International Auto Show.

Lincoln's first-ever hybrid is expected to deliver at least 41 miles per gallon in the city when it goes on sale this fall.

The new premium midsize sedan hybrid joins Ford Motor Company's growing lineup of hybrids, including the Ford Fusion Hybrid - 2010 North American Car of the Year and America's most fuel-efficient sedan - plus the Ford Escape Hybrid and Mercury Milan and Mariner Hybrids.

Introduction of the new Lincoln MKZ Hybrid also complements Ford's aggressive global electrification plan. Ford is introducing five new electrified vehicles by 2013. They include the Transit Connect Electric in late 2010, the Focus Electric in 2011, a next-generation hybrid electric vehicle and a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) in 2012, followed by another next-generation hybrid electric vehicle in 2013.

The Lincoln MKZ Hybrid's projected fuel economy tops its nearest competitor - the 2010 Lexus HS 250h - by 6 mpg. It also trumps the Lexus with room for one more passenger and more standard luxury and segment-exclusive safety features.
The 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid uses Ford's second-generation hybrid technology - the 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle I-4 hybrid engine, named one of Ward's 2010 "10 Best Engines."

The system combines the best attributes of the gasoline engine and electric battery-driven motors to deliver optimal performance and fuel economy.
Industry-leading fuel economy comes without sacrificing power. The combined gasoline engine and electric motor provide 191 net horsepower. Plus, the pure electric mode on the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid extends to 47 mph - compared with the Lexus HS 250h battery-only mode, which reaches just 25 mph.

More standard luxury
The 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid comes standard with features and technologies that are either not offered on the Lexus HS 250h or are available only at an extra cost. They include:

Smart Gauge with Eco Guide - Ford's highly successful interactive technology provides real-time information to help drivers maximize fuel efficiency, and coaches drivers on how to optimize hybrid performance. Lincoln takes Smart Gauge to the next level of engagement by giving drivers enhanced positive feedback on long-term fuel efficiency and driving performance through the "growth" of virtual small flowers on the system's right-most screen. Lincoln's white flowers, inspired by apple blossoms, remain permanently unless long-term fuel economy is reset.

Lincoln SYNC - The Lincoln-exclusive voice-activated communications and entertainment system provides an omnipresent link to contacts and information. In addition to Bluetooth phone, audible text and MP3 player capabilities, Lincoln customers also can access Vehicle Health Report and 911 Assist.

10-Way Power Passenger Seat - This seat is designed to accommodate a diverse group of passengers. Memory functions enable passengers to fine-tune and recall their positions.
Power Driver Memory Seat Settings - The driver seat memory feature helps ensure personal seating preferences anytime, with the touch of a button.

Heated and Cooled Front Seats - This uniquely engineered system delivers exceptional heating and cooling comfort.
Genuine Wood Trim - In addition to their exquisite appearance, the Swirl Walnut and Olive Ash wood trims offered in the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid are eco-friendly as well. The veneers come from well-managed forests, as defined by strict environmental, social and economic standards, and from other rigorously controlled sources.

Reverse Sensing System - This system senses what drivers might not see behind them and relays an audible alert if objects are near, which increases in frequency the closer a driver gets.
Keyless Entry Keypad - This Lincoln-exclusive feature provides secure entry at a driver's fingertips. A personal combination holds a memory for driver preferences. So if an owner is out for a run and doesn't want to take the keys along, the vehicle can be opened with the touch of a few buttons.

Easy Fuel Capless Fuel-Filler - This Lincoln-exclusive feature uses an integrated spring-loaded flapper door to eliminate the need for a fuel tank screw cap. That means no more fumbling to remove and tighten the cap and less fuel odor on a driver's hands at the pump.

The Personal Safety System - A Lincoln-exclusive suite of seven protection technologies works together as a system to help protect vehicle occupants. The system includes dual-stage front air bags and an occupant classification system to sense whether the passenger seat is occupied. It tailors - or suppresses - air bag deployment to help provide an appropriate level of protection. It also features the Ford Belt-Minder system to remind front-seat occupants to buckle up.

MyKey - The Lincoln-exclusive feature allows parents to program a key to limit speed and audio volume to encourage teens to drive safer and improve fuel efficiency. It also encourages seat belt usage, provides earlier low-fuel warnings, and can be programmed to sound chimes at 45, 55 and 65 mph.
Integrated Spotter Mirrors - The traditional side-view mirrors are designed with a secondary convex spotter mirror in the top outer corner, which provides a view of the driver's blind spot. When traffic enters the driver's blind spot on either side of the vehicle, it is visible in the secondary convex mirror, alerting the driver of obstacles.

The Acoustic Laminated Windshield - This windshield features a layer of sound-absorbent vinyl sandwiched between two sheets of glass, which enhances interior quietness.
The Lincoln MKZ Hybrid also includes standard Bridge of Weir leather seats. The world-renowned luxury leather from Scotland is unembossed, allowing the natural beauty and character of the grain to shine through. The leather is milled for up to 12 hours to ensure a soft hand, and Bridge of Weir uses a chromium-free tanning process, which makes it easier to recycle.

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