Rather, the road-adhesion ability of the softly-sprung Zephyr and its predictable handling characteristics really impressed me.
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| The Zephyr's ride is extremely comfortable, yet its handling and braking prowess is surprisingly deft. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
Although its 4-wheel independent suspension setup is a bit on the spongy side, favouring ride comfort over taut handling, the vehicle remains composed and sure-footed throughout high-speed corners and when forced into abrupt lane changes; despite the accompaniment of moderate body roll. As a middle-aged car guy, I would have no problem living with the ride-versus-handling formula Ford has applied to the entry-level Lincoln. In my view, the car exhibits handling competency sufficient to meet or surpass the expectations of typical luxury car buyers. The same can be said for the Zephyr's braking ability. Its ventilated, 4-wheel antilock disc arrangement imparts confidence while easily pulling the 1,545 kilo (3,406 lb) sedan to a rapid halt, free of fanfare and tumult. Some nosedive is generated by a snap of the
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| Interior detailing is impressive. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
binders, but again it's not beyond expectation and doesn't seem to compromise the vehicle's stability during emergency braking maneuvers.
Also beyond compromise is the full-array of standard equipment Lincoln has dressed the Zephyr with. In issuing their least expensive ride, Lincoln didn't water-down the "marque" by sending the Zephyr forth with less content than the prestigious brand, known best for its limousines, deserves. In addition to its many comfort and convenience amenities, the Zephyr features Ford's Personal Safety System as standard equipment. This technology uses a network of sensors to analyze various data - such as the front-seat passenger's weight, whether seatbelts are in use and the overall severity of the crash - to
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| Love that rich wood trim. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
customize the deployment of its dual-stage frontal airbags. Further augmenting occupant protection is a set of side-impact airbags for the driver and front passenger as well as full-length safety curtain airbags for both rows of seats. Regrettably, I note that electronic stability control is not currently available to assist in avoiding a loss of control, precipitated crash. I hope this deficit is overcome shortly. Partially filling the control-gap, though, is a very advanced, engine- and ABS-managed traction control system - again supplied as standard equipment.
Although there isn't additional Zephyr safety gear to opt for, there are several
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| Lincoln's new design direction suits my tastes perfectly. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
standalone options buyers may select from to fulfill their "Lincoln" vision, such as a navigation system, moonroof, premium surround-sound audio and heated/cooled perforated leather front seats. And vision is what Ford is exercising in creating the value-priced, reasonably accessible Lincoln.
The Zephyr offers the prestige and luxury of the famous "Lincoln" marque without sending its price tag through the roof - and I admire that. The 2006 Zephyr is much more than a jazzed-up Fusion, and the 2007 model, with its new 265 horsepower 3.5-litre V6, all-new 6-speed automatic transmission, more acceptable all-wheel drivetrain and all-new name, MKZ, should make an excellent car even better. But even in its current form it's a far more refined sedan than the Fusion or some others in this category, one that spoils its occupants with a genteel ride quality in a serenely quiet cabin filled with quality, soft touch materials and numerous comfort and convenience amenities. Is it worth the three-grand mentioned earlier to rise above the loaded Fusion SEL? I say, "you bet," and encourage others to take the challenge.
