Common stock or not, the Zephyr definitely looks the part. This is good as prior to the launch a Lincoln spokesman stated the "production teaser" would look much the same when it arrives in showrooms in 2005 as a 2006 model year vehicle, less a few interior details. If that's true, the Zephyr should be Lincoln's most popular model - that is if it's still called Zephyr when it comes to market.
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| If the production car is anywhere near as attractive as the teaser version the Zephyr should be Lincoln's most popular model. (Photo: Ford Motor Company of Canada) |
Excuse me? As attractive as the car looks, automotive media attending the debut could be overheard chuckling about whether the luxury marque had secured the rights to the name. Why? As it seems, Ford Motor Co., Lincoln's parent, embarrassingly forgot to get naming rights for the Futura sedan, the Taurus replacement expected to be released late 2005 as a 2006 model. It rides on Mazda6 architecture as well.
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| The new car will have its work cut out for it, if it plans on living up to the legendary Zephyr name. (Photo: Ford Motor Company of Canada) |
While Ford has time enough to find another suitable name, it's not the first time this has happened. The automaker's pivotal halo vehicle, the GT, was to be named the GT40 before the trademark owner put up his price to an unreasonable level, and this was only last year.
My guess is Ford did its homework this time around, which means a new Zephyr is just around the corner. It will have its work cut out it if it plans on living up to the legendary Zephyr name, a badge synonymous with American luxury since 1936.
Specifications:
- Price Range (estimated MSRP): $39,000 - $45,000
- Body Type: 4-door sedan
- Layout: front engine, FWD (optional AWD)
- Engine (estimated): 250 hp, 250 lb-ft of torque, 3.0-L 24-valve, DOHC V6
- Transmission: 6-spd automatic
- Brakes (estimated front/rear): disc/disc (opt ABS and BA)
- Warranty (estimated mo/km): 36/60,000 km comprehensive - 60/100,000 powertrain
- Direct Competitors: Acura TL, Audi A4, BMW 3-Series, Cadillac CTS, Chrysler 300-Series, Infiniti G35, Jaguar X-Type, Lexus IS 300, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Mitsubishi Diamante, Nissan Maxima, Oldsmobile Aurora, Pontiac Grand Prix GTP / Bonneville SSE, Saab 9-3, Volkswagen Passat, Volvo S60
- Web Site: www.ford.ca
Note: Additional larger photos are available in the photo album.
