Lincoln at the Detroit auto show officially unveiled its MKS concept car. The MKS strongly hints at the design direction for Lincoln and its upcoming new flagship sedan. Lincoln MKS’ expressive design is defined by sculpted fluid surfacing that conveys an athletic nature and performance. A clean, contemporary interior includes the comfort and convenience hallmarks that will define Lincoln vehicles going forward. The Lincoln MKS features heated and cooled seats with 14-way power adjustments, a panoramic glass roof, adaptive LED head lights, advanced navigation system, Bluetooth and DVD-audio surround sound. A powerful 315-horsepower V-8 engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, intelligent all-wheel drive and Lincoln’s first sedan with 20-inch wheels.
“Attitudes about luxury are changing, and Lincoln is at the forefront of the shift,” says Peter Horbury, executive director, North American Design. “People want refinement, rather than ostentation. Lincoln MKS is a luxury car that doesn’t need to shout – it captivates with a whisper.”
Expressive, refined styling defines the exterior. The Lincoln MKS is a luxury vehicle that has elegance and composure and is at home in any setting. Its face is a modern interpretation of the classic Lincoln grille, combining the waterfall and the brand’s signature crosshatch star.
“Everything about the design of the Lincoln MKS flows from the star and then directs the eye back to it,” explains Patrick Schiavone, design director, North America Car. “It’s like an abstract arrow that points you to the star and breaks up the weight of the hood.”
The confident stance and clean front of the Lincoln MKS signal an understated strength, while the vehicle’s surface communicates motion. As the sculpted hood travels back to the cowling, it curves upward to greet the A-pillars. The eye is pulled up and around the car’s silhouette and over its dynamic shoulder line to its powerful haunches.
“Lincoln MKS communicates power, motion and speed,” says Schiavone. “It’s athletic and muscular, yet elegant.”
A Footprint for Style, Speed
With substantial 20-inch wheels – the largest ever on a Lincoln sedan – the Lincoln MKS belongs to the serious drivers. Designed with five main spokes and five offset spokes in contrasting polished and vapor-blasted alloy, the wheels reflect light at varying angles to convey a sense of speed.
“Traditionally in the design vocabulary, a sport wheel has five spokes, while luxury wheels are multispoked,” says Schiavone. “The Lincoln MKS is both sporting and luxurious, so we combined the two aesthetics in our ‘five/five’ wheel.”
The Lincoln MKS exquisite exterior color is called Juniper Frost, which is offset by a lower body color of Celadon Green. Side vents are accented by the Lincoln star. A dramatic panoramic glass Vista Roofâ„¢ is set between polished alloy finishing rails. The same polished alloy highlights the roof ditch molding and distinguishes the bold rear fenders with dual exhaust tips.
Inside, the Lincoln MKS is a treat for the senses, offering occupants the ultimate in craftsmanship and comfort. The instrument panel features a slender ribbon of Silvered Birdseye maple framed by a polished alloy band. The Vista Roofâ„¢ emphasizes the sense of space, while inviting the outdoors into the cabin.
The seats, with supple, full-grain Aniline leather, adjust 14 ways – with individual power controls for driver and passenger. These seats are not only heated, they’re cooled. The lower cushions extend, and the lumbar area offers additional support. Suede plays a role in the vehicle’s interior elegance. The console is covered in Oxford Grey suede; doors are offset by pearl white suede.
Open-loop Wind Loom carpeting adds texture and warmth. Signature Lincoln Cool White lighting illuminates the cabin in soft hues.
The Lincoln MKS instrument cluster features gauges inspired by precision sports watches – large, easy to read, and well placed for maximum visibility. The gauge needles have flush-fit hubs that contribute to a clean, streamlined look. The readings are marked by subtle raised chaplets, giving the cluster a dash of brightness.
Innovative Technologies Anticipate Driver’s Needs
The Lincoln MKS presents a suite of features designed to make life more convenient: Bluetooth, 14-speaker, 500-watt DVD surround-sound audio system, a passive entry system that automatically identifies the driver, push-start ignition, onboard navigation and next-generation headlights that improve nighttime vision around curves in the road.
The adaptive front lighting system improves on current “cornering” lighting technologies by using two light sources working in tandem to help drivers see better around curves. A high-output halogen projection main beam is assisted by a secondary row of light emitting diodes (LEDs) that illuminate as needed. Driven by electronic sensors rather than mechanical motors used in current cornering systems, a row of instantaneous LEDs switch on sequentially as the vehicle rounds the bend.
Navigation systems are not new to the luxury market. But intuitive, easy-to-use navigation systems that put the customer first are. With the Lincoln Mobile Media System there is no complicated, frustrating, endless list of drop-down menus. Here, occupants select a function on an eight-inch LCD touch screen. The functions include navigation, tri-zone climate control, audio entertainment system, connectivity and vehicle information. Then occupants modify directions, temperature and volume through rotary controls.
The Lincoln Mobile Media System allows the driver to download the latest information from information channels, such as the National Weather Center or view the major points of interest along his drive route.
Other advanced adaptive technologies featured in the Lincoln MKS were developed to anticipate the occupants’ needs while helping them stay connected. A passive entry system recognizes the driver and automatically unlocks the vehicle and adjusts to his or her personal settings for mirrors, seats, radio dials and temperature. Cell phone calls are transmitted through the 14-speaker surround-sound system, utilizing Bluetooth technology. The Lincoln MKS’s Intelligent AWD System will help ensure confident performance, while the vehicle’s adaptive lighting system instantly adjusts to help improve nighttime driving visibility.
Engaging Driving Dynamics
Under the hood, an all-aluminum 4.4-liter V-8 engine pumps out 315 horsepower. This engine is paired with Ford Motor Company’s smooth-shifting, 6-speed automatic transmission, giving the Lincoln MKS outstanding performance, fuel efficiency and emissions improvements.
Sure-footed power is delivered to all four wheels. The active AWD system provides performance and all-weather traction. A preemptive-slip system reads key parameters that automatically transfers torque to the wheels before they begin to slip.
Lincoln MKS also is equipped with industry-leading safety features. It offers dual front air bags, driver and passenger side air bags and a side air curtain for rollover protection. The steering column tailors its rate of collapse to the driver’s size and safety-belt use. A cross-car side impact protection beam under the front seats reinforces the structure between the B-pillars while directing energy away from passengers.
“Lincoln has historically excelled at full-size luxury sedans – it’s been our hallmark,” says Darryl Hazel, vice president, Marketing, North America. “With the Lincoln MKS, we’re reaffirming what we stand for and signaling our intent to introduce a new generation of consumers to full-size performance luxury in the very near future.”
01/09, 12:26 AM
posted by:
BRobs
“Lincoln MKS is a luxury car that doesn’t need to shout – it captivates with a whisper.â€? – A WHISPER CUZ’ THE MOMENT I SAW IT I FELL ASLEEP.
Boring…
Lincoln needs a BIG f’in kick in the balls. The MKS lacks any character, heritage, muscle, class or prestige. Take a cue from Cadillac – get an EDGE. And stop referencing every line of the new Lexus IS/LS. You did pretty well with the Navigator and all you had to work with was the Expedition. Show us something interesting.
I know you’ve been left to wonder on your own for too many years by papa Ford, but take control and dominate. Seriously, what do you, Lincoln, have to lose???
01/09, 7:48 AM
posted by:
The Big Guy
Disappointing…….
I expected much more. Bland styling, nothing to connect it with it’s proud heritage. The Lincoln Continental Concept car of a few years ago was better than this thing……
I think i’ll wait for Chrysler’s Imperial……DCX at least made a ‘loud’ statement, and people will hear it.
01/09, 9:29 AM
posted by:
rickey939
I dig the Zephyr.
01/09, 10:40 AM
posted by:
Steve Brant
The tragedy of this design and perhaps the tragedy of Lincoln in general, is that the designers have all lost their nerve. Did someone in head office say, “find out what Toyota designers are doing and do the same thing… and oh, by the way, see if you can through in a little bit of BMW M6″? The problem is, I don’t see any Lincoln in this design. Lincoln used to represent to me an impressive, high class, luxurious and powerful American brand. I don’t see any of the stuff in this design that used to make Lincoln great.
01/09, 12:34 PM
posted by:
Maranello
Please, don’t hate, it must be a matter of opinion, because I like this car alot. I hope this design makes it into production I like the 315bhp V8 too, that’s one problem about Lincolns, their engines should have MORE POWER, the idea with the alphanumeric names is bittersweet to me. But I think the MKS should have a higher output V6 or a small V8, and a more luxurious interior. The old Aviater had more power and a better looking interiorl
01/09, 12:35 PM
posted by:
Maranello
Please, don’t hate, it must be a matter of opinion, because I like this car alot. I hope this design makes it into production I like the 315bhp V8 too, that’s one problem about Lincolns, their engines should have MORE POWER, the idea with the alphanumeric names is bittersweet to me. But I think the MKX should have a higher output V6 or a small V8, and a more luxurious interior. The old Aviater had more power and a better looking interiorl
01/09, 7:08 PM
posted by:
Mike
Is it me or does this look like the TL?
01/10, 3:40 AM
posted by:
Steve
It has Maserati Quattroporte taillights, an Acura TL front end, an M Roadster side vent, a Mercedes E-Class glass roof, and it’s all stuck on a Lexus GS body with what I think may be a Jaguar engine. You know what though? I dig it. I like the styling. Chrysler has that hideous Ambassador concept that looks like a rapper’s 300C. I would take this over that any day. At least the Lincoln mimics other beautiful, well thought out designs and improves on them. My only concern is the AWD. Unless it puts between 80 and 90% of power to the rear wheels under normal conditions and an option for stiffer springs, the car will probably be a pretty dull performer. I’m still keeping my fingers crossed for it to be great though.
01/13, 9:05 PM
posted by:
Carl Drake
I like the design of the Lincoln MKS. Can I assume that, since it has 20 inch wheels, that it will be as big as the Lincoln Town Car? It does not look big. If is also based on the Mazda 6, as is the Zephyr, then it will not sell, and the 20 inch wheels will be out of proportion. The car will do fine if it is big enough and really has a command presence in the flesh. I wouldn’t woory about the horsepower; it’s enough for Linciln drivers. The car should be exciting and fun to sit in. I like the console shift; they should keep that. I have a 2004 Navigator and the best feature is the console shifter. Lincoln should make options for the rear seats of either 2-seats or a bench seat; similar to the Bentley Continental Flying Spur.
01/16, 2:42 AM
posted by:
Brian
I like the front end, but the rest could be a bit more formal somehow, if this is in fact a look at the possible Towncar replacement……it’s getting there, but I hope somehow it comes in a bit more formal and looses the doodads here and there. At least it’s not as weird and bizarre as the Chrysler Imperial concept….gawd, that thing was hideous…..Only his fearless loving leader of North Korea could love that thing!
01/21, 7:11 PM
posted by:
Jim
I’ll agree with Steve about “borrowing” everyone else’s design cues. The car is nice but again, just another sedan (with the exception of the Vista Roof) Does anyone remember the 93 to 98 Mark VIII series. When you looked at the Mark VIII, you knew it was a Lincoln. It didn’t look like every other car on the road. It had power, Sport styling and design. Lincoln, how about a 2 door sport luxury Lincoln. Then after you got that handled, go ahead and build a battle ship 4 door for the older generation.
01/24, 11:08 AM
posted by:
yvonne bailey
I like the design on this car, however the glass roof makes me a little leary because I wonder how safe it would be upon impact during an accident.
01/26, 1:41 PM
posted by:
Joe
Ok i am sick of everyone critizing anything american companies do. I bet if they through a big acura A or lexus L on it everyone would love it.
This car was designed to stomp the GS430, this has AWD compared to the GS430’s rwd which makes it better for northern states where it snows, this also has 15 more hp and a nicer look in my oppinion, i wouldnt doubt compareable if not better gas mileage as well.
Also this car has a new easier to use than the competitors navigation system and many other features. I truly think this is the retro lincoln, it has modern look with retro fancy rich styling. I am 100% happy over this improvement from the out dated under powered town car.
02/03, 1:21 AM
posted by:
Daaave
I came here after seeing the MKS in the March, Car and Driver magazine. The short article says that the MKS is built on the upcoming platform that the Volvo S80 will be based on. The article goes on to say that Ford and Volvo co-developed the tansversely mounted V-8, all-wheel drive and the 6-speed auto. I also thought the MKS look like the Acura TL, a car I like allot. I drive a ‘98 Towncar. We’ve been looking for a Lincoln LS since last summer. We both want something smaller, and I want more power. I drove a V-8 LS, and liked it. I’ve suggested the Acura TL and Cadillac CTS, but the boss wants another Lincoln.
02/27, 9:27 PM
posted by:
chris
I love lincolns alot, but I have to say lately I have been alittle dissapointed with them. the power in the new mks was a step in the right direction and so was the interior. But I wish the car had more of a regal look and statement when you first look at it. The short trunk is not a lincoln characteristic at all. That to me makes it look like some economy car, and not a true midsize lincoln.
04/04, 8:11 PM
posted by:
Westbank
The town car is not replaceble it ate the deville and it can eat everything else if designed right.My dad was a cadillac fan until he drove a lincoln and had 4 ever since.the ride was un matched by any sedan .and me being 24 years old and owning a 97 and a 90 town car real lincoln lovers will tell you drive one and well see why we love them.the design on the MKS is definetly not lincoln ,What till i show my dad the new quote un quote town car he is going to have a stroke
04/08, 1:44 PM
posted by:
felix ramsey jr.
nice interior…now what about the exterior..?
04/29, 11:24 PM
posted by:
Louis Friend
I think Lincoln is taking a step in the right direction on the styling of this MKS and the MKZ (Zephyr): understated (as opposed to “in your face”)elegance. I hope that the 20″ wheels, 315 bhp, all wheel drive, and the duel exhaust are an indication as to the performance capabilities of the car. In order for this car to be competitive with the likes of the Cadillac STS, Audi A6, BMW 5 Series, Acura RL, Infiniti M45, and the Lexus GS, it should have high performance capabilities. If it does, I’ll buy one.
05/02, 9:23 PM
posted by:
John
I love the interior. Beautiful. If they made it with black leather, and it was actually a production car, I’d go and buy one tomorrow. The instrument cluster needs to be redone…. too boring. Make it look like a Rolex watch face. That would be cool.
The upper and lower grills need to match better. They could also afford some simplification. What they have now is ugly. The potential is there. I dig the exhaust pipes.
There considering a 350hp twin turbo six! How sweet would that be?
05/13, 9:41 AM
posted by:
JC
Three and one-half stars for some smart cues here for the target taker…more like an Olds Aurora/Acura RL blend-look to me….if it scoots to 60 under 7 secs, has decent cornering and braking, and prices at $40K, it should hurt some of the Imports. Now a convertible coupe…THAT would do some serious damage!
05/20, 11:51 AM
posted by:
Michael Casados
I love it. Lincoln has a website to drive different technologies into the car. I suggest everyone goes to it. Go to the lincoln website and select the MKS and take the survey. This will be my next car. Currently have a LS V8 SPORT. Like HP but love the feel of the V8 better. I would like to see a supercharged V8 (s/a JAG). I think the front is fantastic. I do think the back tail lights need to be changed to give the car a bit more character. I also agree that 80% of the power should be on the rear wheels. On a rating of 1 to 10, i give it a solid 10. This will be another “CAR OF THE YEAR”.
05/29, 6:35 PM
posted by:
N2mustaches
I’m European and i love it.
08/15, 2:29 PM
posted by:
melvin koenke
i’m ready for a new town car .6 passenger seating &sameinterior volume &trunk volume as my 2003 town car more gas milage would be nice. you cant be cramped &call that luxury. is a diesel possible?
08/18, 9:59 AM
posted by:
Steve Deluca
Excellent Car. Now when you develope the marketing plan please inform the poeple what they are getting. Point out all of the hi-tech gizmos and gadgets they will be getting. Talk about the AWD and the 315hp under the damn hood. Don’t do stupid commercials showing a car driving throght the streets of Chicago with no info like you did with the 500. The 500, although not the most attractive car, is a great car. The 500 failed because nobody knows what it has to offer. Sell IT!!!!!!!!! Remember how Lee Iacocca sold that ugly K-Car!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Where have you gone Lee, a domestic auto industry cries its lonley tears for you!