Lincoln MKZ Concept displays the future of Lincoln automobiles

The MKZ Concept is a broad, sleek automobile that offers a modernized interpretation of the American luxury car. (Photo: Lincoln)

popularity compared to its preeminent rivals such as Mercedes-Benz, Audi, BMW and fellow American luxury automaker Cadillac.

In a bid to invigorate its appeal, Lincoln recently introduced its MKZ Concept at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Based on an all-new midsize platform, the MKZ Concept can make use of either front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive configurations. To ensure the optimum blend of ride and handling, the MKZ Concept comes equipped with a Continuously Controlled Damping (CCD) adjustable suspension and Lincoln Drive Control which monitors vehicle steering, suspension, engine and transmission characteristics.

Inside, the MKZ Concept features poplar wood trim, aluminum accents and push-button gear selection. (Photo: Lincoln)

Stylistically, Lincoln's MKZ Concept is a modernized interpretation of a conventional American luxury car. It is a broad, sleek automobile with a panoramic glass roof and large, multi-spoke chromed wheels. Design details on this brawny, imposing sedan include LED lighting and sleek exhaust tips integrated into the rear bumper. Up front, in a nod to its rich heritage, the MKZ sports a sleek, upswept version of Lincoln's characteristic split-wing grille - a feature that was introduced on the Lincoln-Zephyr of 1938 and has once again come to distinguish Lincoln vehicles.

The interior offers seating for four occupants in a cabin adorned with poplar wood trim, aluminum accents and, of course, leather seating. There's a reconfigurable 10-inch LCD screen in front of the driver, featuring Lincoln's MyLincoln Touch vehicle infotainment system. An second, eight-inch LCD touch screen is

Design details on the MKZ Concept include integrated exhaust tips, LED lighting and big, multi-spoke wheels.(Photo: Lincoln)

positioned near the top of the centre stack, while running up the edge of the centre stack is a push-button style gear selector for the transmission.

"With the Lincoln MKZ Concept, we are not introducing a new car. We are essentially introducing a new brand," said Derrick Kuzak, Ford Motor Company group vice president for global product development. "The MKZ Concept is the next step in the reinvention of Lincoln, something we've been quietly but aggressively pursuing."

As Kuzak affirmed, the MKZ Concept signifies the future of the Lincoln brand. Even better, it represents the very near future, as a production version of the MKZ Concept is scheduled to arrive later this year.©(Copyright Canadian Auto Press)]]>