Straightline
Lincoln
May 21, 2009
We haven't had a chance to strap our test equipment to any EcoBoosted Lincoln MKS (or any other EcoBoosted product from FoMoCo, for that matter). But, last night, we did the next best thing: We took the twin-turbo V6 Lincoln to the local drag strip, in Milan, Michigan.
The direct injection 3.5-liter makes a substantial 355 horsepower (on premium fuel, anyway) but it also has a big ol' all-wheel-drive sedan to pull around. Nonetheless, the car rips off 14-second runs all night long. In the cool of the evening, the MKS EcoBoost posted one 13.9-second run, but earlier in the 75-degree afternoon repeated runs in three different cars yielded near-identical runs in right at 14 and about 104 mph. Good stuff.
For perspective, in our more formal testing the 2006 Shelby GT-H Mustang ran a 13.9 @ 101.1 mph. A 2010 Mustang GT ran the quarter in the mid-13s. The MKS nips anything that could be considered a competitor by at least a few tenths. Both the Caddy STS V8 and Infinti M45 get it done in 14.4. Keep in mind, the MKS figures are are not subject to our weather correction, as the other numbers quoted here, but we don't expect the numbers would change significantly if they were.
A Flex EcoBoost, on hand for giggles, will do the deed in 14.5. Presumably, an MKT woud do pretty much the same.
Incidentally, Milan Dragway is pronounced "MY-lin," not "mee-LAHN," like some kind of fancy-pants Italian Mercury sedan.
- Permalink | Comments (12)
- Posted by: Daniel Pund May 21, 2009, 6:43 AM
- Categories: Crossovers, Ford, Lincoln, Sedans, Wagons
May 18, 2009
It's no understatement to say that the future of the Lincoln brand hinges on how much you end up like the 2010 Lincoln MKT and its twin-turbocharged, direct-injected, 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6. This is the only Lincoln model of the last decade that has had any real character, even if that character goes no deeper than the sheetmetal.
Fortunately, as Senior Editor Dan Pund writes, the MKT is actually pretty good, especially if you like its one-of-a-kind styling. As for the EcoBoost V6, well, it just might live up to all the advance billing it has gotten from Ford, too, as it offers ample mid-range torque during when you peg the throttle at highway speeds -- no small feat on a Lincoln that weighs nearly 5,000 lbs.
Of course, in large part, the 2010 MKT drives like the Ford Flex that it really is underneath. And it's not quite so good at seating 6 people as the Flex -- because the dramatic roofline that makes it distinctive from the Ford also restricts headroom in the rearmost row.
Does the MKT's relationship to the Flex really matter? Will this crossover be interesting and likable enough to give Lincoln a future? And would you pay $49,995 to buy a nice one with the EcoBoost V6?
2010 Lincoln MKT First Drive
- Permalink | Comments (18)
-
- Posted by: Erin Riches May 18, 2009, 10:51 AM
- Categories: Crossovers, Lincoln
May 15, 2009
The Ford product most in need of a shot in the arm -- the Lincoln MKS, that is -- will be the first to get Ford's EcoBoost V6. This is the twin-turbocharged and direct-injected, 3.5-liter V6 that we experienced briefly in a Ford Taurus SHO prototype. In the MKS, it's rated at 355 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 350 pound-feet of torque at 1,500-5,250 rpm.
That's a nice, fat powerband, but for this much money, it better be. Consider that the $48,585 MKS EcoBoost (with standard all-wheel drive) costs $5,000 more than a 2010 Lincoln MKS with the 275-hp, normally aspirated, 3.7-liter V6 and optional AWD ($43,585).
We certainly hope there's a suspension retune in that extra $5K, too.
2009 Lincoln MKS AWD Full Test
- Permalink | Comments (26)
-
- Posted by: Erin Riches May 15, 2009, 10:33 AM
- Categories: Ford, Lincoln, Sedans
April 13, 2009
With what passes for winter in Southern California quickly fading and summer fast approaching, it's time for the annual Fabulous Fords Forever show in Buena Park, California. This year not only marks the 24th anniversary of the show itself, but also the 45th anniversary of the Mustang, the 50th anniversary of the Galaxie and the 70th anniversary of Mercury.
Although Mustangs make up a fair bit of the cars in attendance, don't think this is a one model show. With an expected attendance approaching 2,000 vehicles, from Pintos to Panteras, if Ford had something to do with it, you're likely to find an example of it parked on the grounds.
Mark your calendars for April 19th, and set aside a good half day to soak in all the hydrocarbons and hot dogs you can handle.
- Permalink | Comments (0)
-
- Posted by: Ed Hellwig April 13, 2009, 7:57 AM
- Categories: Ford, Lincoln, Mercury
January 12, 2009
This morning, on a stage, far, far away, Jim Farley, Ford's top marketing executive, introduced the 2010 Lincoln MKT. It wasn't a surprise like the Lincoln C Concept, but the new three-row MKT was no less important. It is, after all, one of the first vehicles to offer Ford's much talked about, yet never-seen-in-a-production-car EcoBoost engine.
And although Mr. Farley spent ample time extolling the virtues of the MKT's optional twin-turbo, V6 power plant, a photo of the MKT remains elusive. Neither the MKT on the stage nor the MKS Sport, which also gets the new V6, were so equipped. Seems a shame as the engine is an impressive piece on paper with power (355 hp) and torque (350 pound-feet) that are unmatched in the three-row crossover segment. We'll keep stalking the Lincoln stand; until then you can check out our full story on the Lincoln MKT for more details. -- Ed Hellwig, Senior Editor, Inside Line
#DAS09 For the love of God, Lincoln, stop haunting my dreams!
We thought that we were done with Eva, the super-creepy disembodied head that acts as the avatar for Lincoln's C Concept Sync communications system. When we showed up at this morning's first press conference, there she was, floating above the crowd on a huge screen talking like some computerized Nurse Ratched.
If you're interested in the concept car Lincoln unveiled, and you should be because it's pretty weird, you should link over to read our full coverage of the Lincoln C.
Now if you'll excuse us, we need to go scour out our cranium. -- Daniel Pund, Senior Editor, Detroit
- Permalink | Comments (3)
-
- Posted by: Daniel Pund January 12, 2009, 7:07 AM
- Categories: Concept Vehicles, Detroit Auto Show, Lincoln
January 4, 2009
So it's not going to be a banner year for the home team at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show. Chrysler, Ford and General Motors are about as beat down as major industrial giants can get, but this is a chance for each company to convince the public that there's still some life in the Motor City.
Here's the latest rundown on what to expect:
Continue reading...
- Permalink | Comments (0)
-
- Posted by: Ed Hellwig January 4, 2009, 10:00 PM
- Categories: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Detroit Auto Show, Dodge, Ford, General Motors, Jeep, Lincoln, SUVs, Saab, Sedans
December 30, 2008
No doubt inspired by the Lexus self-parking feature, Lincoln MKS and MKT models will offer their own version, called Active Park Assist.
The system uses ultrasonic sensors mounted on the outside corners of of the vehicles and combines them with a new electric power assisted steering setup. Active Park Assist can then manipulate the steering automatically as the sensors detect where the vehicle is relative to other vehicles. The sensors detect the distance between cars to determine if there is enough space, and then it manipulates the steering, as well as instructing the driver as to when to shift into Drive or Reverse as well as press the gas or brake.
...And, of course, Lincoln says their system is better than the Lexus version.
Full story here.
- Permalink | Comments (8)
-
- Posted by: Bob Holland December 30, 2008, 6:47 AM
- Categories: Car Tech, Lexus, Lincoln
December 23, 2008
This is it, the 2010 Lincoln MKT on the streets of Dearborn. It's scheduled for an official debut at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show, but like the 2010 Ford Taurus seen yesterday, this prototype is nearly uncovered.
No big surprises here as the finished product looks much like the concept shown at last year's Detroit show. You've got your big waterfall grille up front, an interesting up kick in the beltline toward the back and a full width taillight treatment across the tailgate.
This particular prototype also wore an "Ecoboost" badge, so Ford's new twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 is most certainly under the hood. No word yet on what the final horsepower numbers will be, but something in the 350 horsepower range is expected. And judging by the size of this sucker, it's going to need it.
The interior is fully finished and it looks pretty good. A thick-rimmed steering wheel, minimal button clutter and some high quality wood trim make it look like a proper luxury vehicle. Figure on three rows of seats and all the latest gadgets like Sync, a THX sound system and optional DVD screens in back.
November 27, 2008
Everyone knows GM and Ford have too many models, too many brands, too many dealers, too many of just about everything and anything one can think of. So might this financial mess be a blessing in disguise? Might this be just the impetius for the General and Ford to do what just about everyone thinks should be done: Shed--not just some of their excess models--but instead shed some of their excess brands?
AutoObserver seems to think that this could be in the cards, as the market just can't support so many redundant brands. Put them out of their misery. Make them extinct, just like the Woolly Mammoth and countless other critters that have ceased to have a reason to exist.
At GM, Pontiac, Buick, Saturn, GMC and Saab certainly all fall into that category. Might we see a lean and mean General Motors consisting of just Chevrolet and Cadillac, with maybe leaving Buick strictly for China?
And Ford? Might this be the time to cut Mercury; and maybe even cut Lincoln loose, by replacing it with Volvo?
If GM and Ford are going to do this, now is the best time to do so.
COMMENTARY: For Bailout Blueprint, GM, Ford Might Finally Burn Rubber on Underperforming Brands
Related story here.
- Permalink | Comments (8)
-
- Posted by: Bob Holland November 27, 2008, 4:00 AM
- Categories: Auto Industry, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Ford, GMC, General Motors, Lincoln, Mercury, Saab, Saturn, Volvo
November 19, 2008
Since they have about $1.38 in available cash these days, Ford passed on doing separate press conferences for Lincoln, Mercury and the Blue Oval. Instead, they did one all together -- problem was, they weren't all on the same stage. As we sat there staring at the enormous Ford stage, this disembodied voice started speaking. We could see the teleprompter, but no promptee. Ford had called the auto show equivalent of an audible and started its 2010 Lincoln MKZ press conference over the gathered media's right shoulder at the Lincoln area (which moments earlier was the hors d'oeuvres station).
Anyway, I managed to get over there in time to hear the presentation and snap a few photos. The refreshed 2010 Lincoln MKZ now looks much less like a rebadged Fusion taking multiple design cues from the MKS (customers have apparently identified the split grille as "Lincolnesque"). In particular, the tail doesn't seem to be as high, lending a sleeker appearance. The interior is much richer-looking than the outgoing retro cabin and is a spitting image of the MKS.
There wasn't much mention of Mercury at the press conference, just the new Milan Hybrid sadly sitting in a corner. -- James Riswick, Edmunds.com Automotive Editor
For full details, check out Inside Line's 2010 Lincoln MKZ Auto Show story.
- Permalink | Comments (2)
-
- Posted by: JRiz November 19, 2008, 12:56 PM
- Categories: Ford, LA Auto Show, Lincoln, Mercury
September 23, 2008
It's getting near crunch time folks, and polls show that there are still a lot of people on the fence in terms of they're going to vote for. ...And if you happen to be one of those straddling that fence, would knowing that McCain has a bunch of cars in his garage sway your vote?
Here's Inside Line's take: John McCain, Car Buff? Candidate Reportedly Owns 13 Cars
Also, it seems the fact that McCain owns a few non-American nameplates has gotten UAW leader Ron Gettelfinger fit to be tied.
- Permalink | Comments (6)
-
- Posted by: Bob Holland September 23, 2008, 4:00 AM
- Categories: Cadillac, Ford, GMC, Jeep, Lexus, Lincoln, Toyota
July 28, 2008
More news on what Ford has in store for the Mercury brand is starting to trickle out. The brand will offer smaller entry-level premium cars and crossovers that will complement the Lincoln brand.
Rumors had been that Ford was going to eliminate the Mercury brand and give Lincoln more models. Dealers protested, pointing out that Mercury brings a different demographic into the showroom than any other Ford brand.
"Mercury brings a younger, more female customer than the Ford brand. We're focusing (Mercury) very much on small, fuel-efficient products," said Derrick Kuzak, Ford's global product chief.
Sounds good in theory, but will it work?
Full story here.
- Permalink | Comments (2)
-
- Posted by: Bob Holland July 28, 2008, 4:00 AM
- Categories: Auto Industry, Ford, Lincoln, Mercury
July 14, 2008
Every now and then I stop by Hemming Auto Blogs to see what's going on with old cars. Today I saw an entry on vintage Canadian cars, more specifically on Canadian Fords and Mercurys.
For those too young to remember, beginning back in 1946 and running through the 1960s Fords and Mercurys sold in Canada were badged differently than those here in the USA. I believe Lincolns were the same on both sides of the border, however.
A Canadian Ford was called a Meteor. Canadian Mercurys were called Monarchs and Canadian Ford trucks were sold as Mercury trucks. Not only was the badging different but so too was the styling. Ford was not alone here as GM and Chrysler also had their own Canadian-specific models.
Full story here and here.
- Permalink | Comments (0)
-
- Posted by: Bob Holland July 14, 2008, 4:00 AM
- Categories: Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, Lincoln, Mercury, Trucks
March 18, 2008
Just before the New York auto show officially gets under way, Grammy award-winning rap artist Common makes an appearance at a special Sirius Satellite Radio party. Hosted by Lincoln at the Sirius studios in New York, the event showcases the new Travel Link navigation system that includes weather, traffic, ski conditions and a new interface for the radio functions. It will soon show up in Ford and Lincoln products. But this event is really just a party, so there's little talk of sales numbers or future products -- instead, a Common performance...
Continue reading...
- Permalink | Comments (2)
-
- Posted by: Brian Moody March 18, 2008, 4:48 PM
- Categories: Car Tech, Lincoln, New York Auto Show
March 17, 2008
When the new 2009 F-150 debuts next fall, don't expect to see a Lincoln variant of it, as all indications suggest that the Lincoln LT will just quietly disappear.
The problem with the LT is that there is no Avalanche-like equivalent in the huge Ford truck portfolio in which to base it on, hard to believe as it may be. I think that's very important as the Cadillac Escalade EXT is based on the Chevy Avalanche—and there are some real advantages to the Avalanche that translate quite well into a luxury pickup. Not true for the F-150, which is....
Continue reading...
- Permalink | Comments (15)
-
- Posted by: Bob Holland March 17, 2008, 8:00 AM
- Categories: Cadillac, Chevrolet, Ford, Lincoln, Trucks
February 5, 2008
Cadillac has been tip-toeing in the European market for some time now, but Lincoln hasn't. In fact, outside of the USA and Canada Lincoln is a non-brand.
In recent years the argument was that if Lincoln went international, it would step on Jaguar's toes, that's assuming of course if Lincoln had a credible product. But that's about to change as Ford divests its self of Jaguar...
Continue reading...
- Permalink | Comments (9)
-
- Posted by: Bob Holland February 5, 2008, 7:47 AM
- Categories: Auto Industry, Cadillac, Lincoln, Luxury Cars, Trends
January 14, 2008
Cobo Arena was strangely under capacity during the first-of-the-day press conference for the Lincoln MKT concept. Could this be backlash after yesterday's unofficial media lockout at the Ford F-150 debut?
Mark Fields, Ford's president of the Americas, was first to speak. "Lincoln was the fastest growing luxury brand of 2007, " he said, but without seeing some hard statistics, that claim seems tenuous. The current MKS, MKX and MKZ, Fields added, "offer a blend of performance, luxury and value that all represent a quiet confidence." He even dropped his voice slightly to emphasize the "quiet."
Continue reading...
- Permalink | Comments (0)
-
- Posted by: Erin Riches January 14, 2008, 7:00 AM
- Categories: Detroit Auto Show, Lincoln, SUVs
January 7, 2008
We already knew Ford would begin using Sirius Travel Link but here's a look at how the system will actually work. In addition to weather forcasts you can get sports scores, movie listing and gas prices. Seveal aftermarket nav systems already offer these features - as usual, this factory installed version is better looking and well integrated into the vehicle. In this case, it's a Ford Edge - Brian Moody, Road Test Editor...
Continue reading...
- Permalink | Comments (2)
-
- Posted by: Brian Moody January 7, 2008, 3:10 PM
- Categories: Car Tech, Ford, Lincoln, Mercury
January 6, 2008
The Microsoft/Ford Sync system just became a must have safety feature. Until now, Sync was a clever and useful point of connection for digital media players and Bluetooth enabled phones - mostly fun stuff. Now, they've taken the feature well beyond fun. Some of the details were part of a CES keynote speech featuring Microsoft's Bill Gates.
The first, and probably most important - Sync will dial 911 should your car be involved in an accident and the airbags deploy. Sound familiar?..
Continue reading...
- Permalink | Comments (13)
-
- Posted by: Brian Moody January 6, 2008, 7:30 PM
- Categories: Car Tech, Ford, Lincoln, Mercury
January 4, 2008
Are the rumors true? Is Lincoln preparing its own version of the 2009 Ford Flex? This mule recently spotted in Detroit seems to indicate that a Lincoln crossover is in the works. Obviously none of the sheetmetal on this test mule is headed for production, but that big waterfall grille is all Lincoln...
Continue reading...
January 2, 2008
Motor Authority, Winding Road and Car & Driver are reporting that Lincoln may get a version of the Ford Flex.
Now why am I not surprised? After all, that's a classic Ford modus operandi: Take a successful (or not successful) Ford product and then clone it for Lincoln and/or Mercury.
So expect at a chrome-laden Flex wagon bearing Lincoln badges sometime in the near future...
Continue reading...
- Permalink | Comments (8)
-
- Posted by: Bob Holland January 2, 2008, 5:00 AM
- Categories: Ford, Lincoln, Wagons
November 14, 2007
Ford's mullet-man, Mark Fields, strode onto the stage to introduce the 2009 Lincoln MKS... and promptly called it "MKX." Oooops.
Continue reading...
- Permalink | Comments (15)
-
- Posted by: J to the K November 14, 2007, 12:11 PM
- Categories: LA Auto Show, Lincoln, Luxury Cars
November 13, 2007
At almost 19 feet long, it's 15 inches longer than the regular Navigator. It seats 8, the 2nd and 3rd rows fold flat, and it can haul more than 8,000 pounds.
Do you think it can compete against the Escalade ESV?
Read the Navigator L Full Test on Inside Line.
Donna DeRosa, Managing Editor
- Permalink | Comments (6)
-
- Posted by: Donna DeRosa November 13, 2007, 4:45 PM
- Categories: Lincoln
September 4, 2007
Strike 2 and you're out!
Word on the street is that Lincoln will be dropping their luxury pickup, the LT. This is the second time that Lincoln has tried a pickup truck and failed. 2008 is supposed to be the last year of it being on the market...
Continue reading...
- Permalink | Comments (7)
-
- Posted by: Bob Holland September 4, 2007, 4:00 AM
- Categories: Lincoln, Luxury Cars, Trends, Trucks
August 16, 2007
Forbes has come up a list of the top 10 least expensive luxury vehicles to own over a 5-year span.
The figures include not only MSRP, but also depreciation, interest and opportunity costs, fuel, maintenance and repairs, insurance, and taxes and fees.
10. Lincoln MKZ: $55,011
9. Lexus ES 350: $54,585
8. Acura RDX: $54,502
7. Lexus IS 250: $53,220
6. Volvo V50: $52,906
5. Audi A3: $51,513
4. Saab 9-3 SportCombi: $51,499
3. Volvo S40: $51,484
2. Saab 9-3 Sedan: $50,282
1. Acura TSX: $47,084
Full story here at egmcartech.com. Slide show here...
- Permalink | Comments (11)
-
- Posted by: Bob Holland August 16, 2007, 4:00 AM
- Categories: Acura, Audi, Lexus, Lincoln, Luxury Cars, Saab, Volvo
August 4, 2007
The good news is that the Chrysler-Cerberus is now official, as papers to that effect were signed by all parties on Friday. The new company's name is Chrysler LLC, and Monday they are going to reveal an updated version of the old Pentastar logo.
There's a lot of excitement here as most everyone close to the situation thinks this will be a great opportunity for all involved. Key to success here is that they have to move fast, and don't screw anything up, as there's no room (or time) for mistakes...
Continue reading...
- Permalink | Comments (6)
-
- Posted by: Bob Holland August 4, 2007, 5:32 AM
- Categories: Auto Industry, Chrysler, Ford, Lincoln, Mercury
July 18, 2007
Ah, the American idea of a pickup truck. Stylish bordering on bling, but still powerful, functional and, of course, equipped with dual-zone climate controls, heated seats and parking assist. This isn't the Wild West after all.
Read the Comparison Test on Inside Line.
More photos after the jump. They're all outtakes from the shoot, but I liked the way they looked.
Continue reading...
- Permalink | Comments (7)
-
- Posted by: Donna DeRosa July 18, 2007, 12:46 PM
- Categories: Cadillac, Lincoln
June 13, 2007
After seeing various exterior spy photos of the 2009 Lincoln MKS, we can now bring you the first clear interior shots of Lincoln's upcoming sedan flagship. So how does the real cabin compare with the setup shown in the MKS concept? It's surprisingly close. Sure, the colors and textures are a little different, but from the gauges to the steering wheel almost all of the original design elements are there...
Continue reading...
- Permalink | Comments (8)
-
- Posted by: Ed Hellwig June 13, 2007, 7:20 AM
- Categories: Future Vehicles, Lincoln, Sedans, Spy Photos
June 6, 2007
Finally some good news for Ford as the Mustang, Lincoln MKZ and the Mercury Milan all get top scores from the J.D. Power Initial Quality Study. Other winners are the Porsche Boxster and Kia Rio.
Specifically the winners of those listed are:
Compact Premium Sportycar: The 2007 Porsche Boxster
Midsize Sporty Car: The 2007 Ford Mustang
Midsize Car: The 2007 Mercury Milan which beat out such competitors as the Honda Accord and Mitsubishi Galant
Entry Premium Car: The 2007 Lincoln MKZ, which was ahead of the Acura TSX and the Cadillac CTS
Subcompact Car: The Kia Rio
Power noted that 14 Ford models placed in the top three of the respective segments...
Continue reading...
- Permalink | Comments (8)
-
- Posted by: Bob Holland June 6, 2007, 1:22 PM
- Categories: Ford, Kia, Lincoln, Mercury, Porsche, Trends
May 29, 2007
Here are the latest spy photos of the 2009 Lincoln MKS. As in previous spy shots, the MKS looks like a big, nondescript sedan that will have a tough time boosting Lincoln's fading image. We suspect Lincoln will add a little power to Ford's 3.5-liter V6 to give the MKS a leg up on the new Taurus while all-wheel drive may come standard. A similar upgrade to the interior of the MKS is assured as that may be the only area where this sedan can make a statement...
Continue reading...
- Permalink | Comments (9)
-
- Posted by: Ed Hellwig May 29, 2007, 10:14 AM
- Categories: Future Vehicles, Lincoln, Sedans, Spy Photos
April 18, 2007
We figured it wouldn't be long before spy photos of the 2009 Lincoln MKS emerged. Pegged to go on sale in the spring of 2008, this new Lincoln will displace the Town Car at the top of Lincoln's lineup. Looking much like the MKS concept shown in Detroit two years ago in overall size and shape, this prototype does appear to have adopted the front end styling of the more recent MKR concept. Although it was first shown with V8 power, the MKS may get saddled with a V6 in order to keep its costs down. For Lincoln's sake, we hope we're wrong.
Continue reading...
December 22, 2006
When the Lincoln MKR concept is unwrapped at the Detroit Auto Show on January 7th, it will foretell the future look and powertrain of Lincoln.
Read the Inside Line sneek peak of the Lincoln MKR concept.
- Permalink | Comments (8)
-
- Posted by: Ed Hellwig December 22, 2006, 6:16 PM
- Categories: Detroit Auto Show, Future Vehicles, Lincoln, Sedans
December 8, 2006
Industry Insider: 12/08/06
And finally, Ford has begun shipping to dealers its critically important Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX crossovers.
The vehicles had been delayed by manufacturing problems. Ford wouldn't detail the problems; they are rumored to be a parts supply issue or manufacturing problems at the company's Oakville, Ontario, assembly plant.
Ford has touted the Edge, in particular, as the most important vehicle launch of the year...
Continue reading...
- Permalink | Comments (4)
-
- Posted by: Bob Holland December 8, 2006, 7:59 AM
- Categories: Auto Industry, Ford, Lincoln, SUVs
November 13, 2006
This week's issue of Automotive News had a few significant stories regarding future product so we'll get right to it.
-- GM is planning to launch a new small car platform designed for worldwide production in late 2009. Known internally as Gamma, the new platform would underpin the next Chevrolet Aveo as well as various Asian, European and Latin American subcompacts. The platform could eventually account for as many as 1.4 million units worldwide...
Continue reading...
- Permalink | Comments (3)
-
- Posted by: Ed Hellwig November 13, 2006, 12:08 AM
- Categories: Chevrolet, Future Vehicles, General Motors, Lincoln
November 5, 2006
After taking last week off to get ready for SEMA, our weekly update from the pages of Automotive News is back in action and there's plenty to report.
-- First up is a story on the likelihood of a new diesel engine for the Ford Expedition. No plans have been approved yet, but the Expedition's chief engineer told AN diesel engines would be available in the full-size sport ute within two years along with improved gas engines. He also mentioned the possibility of a diesel-powered Lincoln Navigator...
Continue reading...
- Permalink | Comments (1)
-
- Posted by: Ed Hellwig November 5, 2006, 10:30 PM
- Categories: Chrysler, Ford, Future Vehicles, General Motors, Lexus, Lincoln
September 17, 2006
As expected, this week's issue of Automotive News features a considerable amount of info on Ford's future product plans, but since most of that info was covered late last week we'll focus elsewhere for now. Probably the most interesting piece of information came from Scion.
Continue reading...
- Permalink | Comments (2)
-
- Posted by: Ed Hellwig September 17, 2006, 10:58 PM
- Categories: Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, Future Vehicles, Hyundai, Lincoln, Mercury, Mitsubishi, Scion
August 9, 2006
As news of a possible sale of Jaguar and Land Rover broke the other day, this Lincoln news story becomes even more timely.
The aging Lincoln Town car will be replaced by the all-new Lincoln MKS. This vehicle will have a 4.4L, 315 hp V8, hooked up to a 6-speed automatic and AWD. Those specs sound good to me...
Continue reading...
- Permalink | Comments (10)
-
- Posted by: Bob Holland August 9, 2006, 6:57 AM
- Categories: Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Luxury Cars, Trends
August 2, 2006
<Sigh> Two of my favorite SUVs made this list: The Land Rover LR3 and the VW Touareg... Oh well, I was never meant to own either of those anyway...
In any event, Forbes magazine have just released their list of the "Least Reliable Luxury Cars 2006." Besides the VW and Land Rover, the others are: Range Rover, Lincoln Navigator and Saab 9-3. I kinda doubt this news will make Bill Ford sleep any better, as three of the five listed fall under the Ford corporate umbrella...
Continue reading...
- Permalink | Comments (4)
-
- Posted by: Bob Holland August 2, 2006, 12:00 AM
- Categories: Land Rover, Lincoln, Saab, Volkswagen
February 8, 2006
After Kermit the frog warmed up the crowd from atop a Ford Escape Hybrid, suddenly Magic Johnson strolled onto the stage at the Lincoln stand. "Are you up for a little one-one-one?" Kermit teased.
Turned out Magic was actually there "to share some really big news about Lincoln today."
That big news was of course the 2007 Lincoln Navigator and new Suburban-size Navigator L, and the odd exchange between a muppet and a former basketball pro helped smooth the transition from frugal hybrid to gluttonous luxury SUV.
"Lincoln is like myself about class and style," Magic told the crowd...
Continue reading...
- Permalink | Comments (2)
-
- Posted by: Erin Riches February 8, 2006, 12:04 PM
- Categories: Chicago Auto Show, Ford, Lincoln, SUVs
February 7, 2006
Zephyr is out. MK Z is in. The old(?) Lincoln Zepher gets a new engine, new front end styling and a new name.
The new(?) MK Z will get Ford's new 3.5-liter V-6 Cyclone engine and six-speed automatic transmission...
Continue reading...
- Permalink | Comments (2)
-
- Posted by: Bob Holland February 7, 2006, 8:35 AM
- Categories: Lincoln, Luxury Cars
February 5, 2006
At least that's what suppliers close to the projects are saying. Automotive News quotes supplier sources in a recent article who confirm that Lincoln will build a production sedan based on the MKS concept starting in February of 2008 in Chicago. The story also notes that an additional low volume Lincoln sedan will be built on the same assembly line starting in late 2008 or early 2009. Supplier sources also confirmed that Ford's Oakville, Ontario plant in Canada will begin building a production version of the Ford Fairlane concept in early 2008...
Continue reading...
- Permalink | Comments (6)
-
- Posted by: Ed Hellwig February 5, 2006, 11:54 PM
- Categories: Detroit Auto Show, Lincoln, Sedans
January 10, 2006
The Lincoln MKX is Lincoln's first crossover SUV. It will go up against the Lexus RX330 and Acura MDX when it goes on sale later this year. The Mark X uses Ford's newest 3.5-liter V6 which produces 250 horsepower and 240 pound-feet of torque. Coupled to a six-speed automatic transmission, Lincoln expects the Mark to accelerate as fast as anything in the class...
Continue reading...
- Permalink | Comments (3)
-
- Posted by: Bob Holland January 10, 2006, 11:55 AM
- Categories: All Auto Shows, Detroit Auto Show, Lincoln, SUVs
Well, this should be obvious, a Cadillac vs. Lincoln shoot-out, shouldn't it? It seems that Cadillac has been getting the upper hand in recent years, so Lincoln is beefing up their anti-Caddy efforts.
The rivalry between Cadillac and Lincoln goes back decades...
Continue reading...
December 29, 2005
Lincoln has added a new twist (literally) to the concept of turning headlights.
Turning headlights, a.k.a. adapative headlights, are
not new. The '48 Tucker in fact had a headlight that turns, and
recently a number of high-end cars have started showing up with
state-of-the-art headlights that turn as the vehicle turns...
Continue reading...
- Permalink | Comments (2)
-
- Posted by: Bob Holland December 29, 2005, 1:00 AM
- Categories: Lincoln, Trends
