Despite being inspired by one of the most coveted Lincolns of all time (think about that last statement as you're targeting Boomers like me),
the Continental Concept could do incite such an undying passion among a small, select group of loyalists, and if followed up with a full-size four-seat Mark 9 coupe, could draw a lot of much-needed attention to the beleaguered Lincoln brand. Both cars would also lineup nicely beside the new MKX crossover, previously called the Aviator concept, and stylish new Zephyr, each of which more closely resembles the 2001 and 2002 concepts than the MKS, forming a distinctive family design language rather than what would otherwise be a continuation of hodgepodge styling exercises.
The MKS concept won't take anyone's breath away, mind you, and won't redefine the Lincoln brand. Rather, like how Buick's Allure (LaCrosse) or Lucerne merely keep current Buick buyers coming back for more, the MKS will probably do a similar service for Lincoln while hardly sending a ripple through the conquest buyer pool.
So,
how do I really feel? Yeah, I suppose it would help my personal career to keep my mouth shut and simply utter some vague nothings about fluid styling and a substantial presence, which really translate into "formed by a wind tunnel" and "ruddy big car", but I owe you, the reader, more than that. I also like the people in Dearborn, J Mays and Peter Horbury included, and being a fan of everything automotive as well as a paid scribe, truly want the next flagship Lincoln to be a design and resultant sales success. I wear my heart on my proverbial sleeve in coming out so strongly against the MKS, and do so because I'm a big fan of the brand and know how great it could become one day, if lead by a truly inspired flagship model. This MKS is not it, in my "humble" opinion, and the future of Lincoln as a truly competitive luxury brand needs to be reconsidered once again.
Specifications:
 |
| The MKS concept won't take anyone's breath away, and won't redefine the Lincoln brand. (Photo: Ford Motor Company of Canada) |
The MKS concept won't take anyone's breath away, mind you, and won't redefine the Lincoln brand. Rather, like how Buick's Allure (LaCrosse) or Lucerne merely keep current Buick buyers coming back for more, the MKS will probably do a similar service for Lincoln while hardly sending a ripple through the conquest buyer pool.
So,
 |
| As for Lincoln's interior design stategty, I think they're right on target. (Photo: Ford Motor Company of Canada) |
Specifications:
- Body Type: 4-door sedan
- Layout: front engine, AWD
- Engine: 315 hp, 4.6L, 48-valve, DOHC V8
- Transmission: 6-spd auto
- Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS and EBFD
- Seating Capacity: 4 or 5
- Cargo Volume: 580 L (20.5 cu ft)
- Website: www.ford.ca
Article Gallery