Lincoln: MKT news **2011 Revealed (page 1)**
01-14-2008, 01:00 PM
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Lincoln: MKT news **2011 Revealed (page 1)**
It's not enough to flex your muscles. Though it will share its underpinnings with Ford's new Flex crossover vehicle, the "people mover" the Lincoln division is rolling out at this year's Detroit Auto Show will have a decidedly different appearance from its down-market sibling.
With its curvaceous exterior and lavish, "Lear Jet" cabin, the 2009 MKT concept gives more than a subtle hint of what's to come from Ford as it moves to rebuild its struggling Lincoln luxury brand.
The marque hopes to stand out at the crowded show, not only with a striking design but with a surprisingly eco-friendly package -powered by a 415-horsepower V-6 - that shows performance, fuel economy and recyclability are not mutually exclusive.
Think of the MKT as "the Lear Jet of the road," suggests Ford's North American design director, Peter Horbury. Like other recent Lincoln designs, such as the MKS sedan and MKR concept, the prototype utility vehicle borrows classic design cues without crossing into the world of retro.
"It's not retro in any way," insists Horbury. "We've just used the past to help us move into the future."
The face of the MKT is its split-wing grille, first seen on the MKS, but here framed by a set of LED headlamps. The most distinctive element from a plan, or side, view, is the beveled edge, essentially the shoulder of the people mover, which harkens back to Lincolns of the 1950s.
The roof of the MKT is virtually all glass, which flows into a thick rear pillar and an unusual bustle back, with a power liftgate, that creates a striking visual signature - and plenty of cargo space behind the people-mover's four bucket seats. The rounded, wraparound rear conceals a bumper that can more than meet current crash standards. MKT rides on 21-inch, 14-spoke wheels.
Inside, the utility vehicle provides massive amounts of room, especially in the rear. The individual buckets can recline and have foldaway footrests, and are intended to provide not only limousine-style room, but a comfortable working environment.
The instrument panel was influenced by Swarovski crystal, notes Horbury, and is backlit by a cluster of tiny LED lamps. The flying center console sweeps down from the top of the instrument panel and flows through to the back seat. One of the more technically nifty tricks is a rear-projection system that displays sharply on the upper glass face of the center stack.
From top to bottom, inside and out, Ford used recyclable and eco-friendly materials and hardware. The seats and doors, for example, are lined with chromium-free leather and recycled wood. The plush, silk-like carpeting is made from banana leaves and bark.
The lightweight body panels, meanwhile, are made from a plastic polymer sourced from recycled soda pop bottles. Trimming weight directly influences fuel economy.
Traditionally, automotive engineers have had to face a trade-off when it comes to performance, emissions and fuel-economy, but Ford officials insist the MKT can deliver all three through the use of the company's new EcoBoost system.
Also making its debut in Detroit , this year, this engine technology is, for the mechanically minded, a gasoline turbocharged direct injection system, or GTDI. Rather than mixed in with air, gasoline is injected directly into each cylinder's combustion chamber, resulting in a cleaner, more efficient burn. Turbocharging further improves performance. The MKS sedan will go to market with a since-turbo, 3.5-liter V-6 producing 340 horsepower, more than a match for the V-8s used by many of Lincoln 's competitors.
For the MKT show car, Lincoln uses a twin-turbo version of the 3.5-liter V-6, and here, fueled by E85, a mix of ethanol and gasoline, it makes a whopping 415 hp and 400 pound-feet of torque, similar to what you might expect of a 6.0-liter V-8, but in the EcoBoost package using significantly less fuel.
"All of this is generally feasible," says Horbury. Translation: the materials and technology are available, but don't expect the plastic panels any time soon. The banana leaf carpet? Maybe, if it can meet cost and durability targets.
The twin-turbo EcoBoost, hints Ford Motor Co. marketing chief Jim Farley, is all but certain to show up at Lincoln dealerships, most likely by the 2010 model year.
And while company officials start to whistle and stare at their shows when asked, it seems a fairly dead-on certainty that a production version of the MKT will make it onto the road by 2010, as well.
"These days," says Mark Fields, Ford's President of the Americas , "it's all about how to get things into production as quickly as possible."
The design will be toned down a wee bit - though not much, a senior design executive whispered - and "the interior is just showtime," according to Horbury, but look for a package that is more rounded and Lincolnesque than the decidedly hard-edged Ford Flex people-mover.
If our sources are right, the MKT would join a fast expanding list of new Lincoln products. "A step at a time," says Fields, acknowledging that the division has a lot of catching up to do in a segment where product proliferation has become the norm. But it takes time to get things right - not just at the plant, but also on the dealer side, where salespeople went years without seeing much that was new.
For Lincoln , the good news is that customers are responding well to what they're seeing. Though Ford, as a whole, was hit hard by last year's slumping market, Lincoln sales rose 9 percent. And if you don't count fleet numbers, retail sales jumped 15 percent, spurred on by the newest members of the line-up, the MKZ sedan and MKX crossover.
With the MKS and, soon after, an MKT, Lincoln hopes to keep the renaissance going.
With its curvaceous exterior and lavish, "Lear Jet" cabin, the 2009 MKT concept gives more than a subtle hint of what's to come from Ford as it moves to rebuild its struggling Lincoln luxury brand.
The marque hopes to stand out at the crowded show, not only with a striking design but with a surprisingly eco-friendly package -powered by a 415-horsepower V-6 - that shows performance, fuel economy and recyclability are not mutually exclusive.
Think of the MKT as "the Lear Jet of the road," suggests Ford's North American design director, Peter Horbury. Like other recent Lincoln designs, such as the MKS sedan and MKR concept, the prototype utility vehicle borrows classic design cues without crossing into the world of retro.
"It's not retro in any way," insists Horbury. "We've just used the past to help us move into the future."
The face of the MKT is its split-wing grille, first seen on the MKS, but here framed by a set of LED headlamps. The most distinctive element from a plan, or side, view, is the beveled edge, essentially the shoulder of the people mover, which harkens back to Lincolns of the 1950s.
The roof of the MKT is virtually all glass, which flows into a thick rear pillar and an unusual bustle back, with a power liftgate, that creates a striking visual signature - and plenty of cargo space behind the people-mover's four bucket seats. The rounded, wraparound rear conceals a bumper that can more than meet current crash standards. MKT rides on 21-inch, 14-spoke wheels.
Inside, the utility vehicle provides massive amounts of room, especially in the rear. The individual buckets can recline and have foldaway footrests, and are intended to provide not only limousine-style room, but a comfortable working environment.
The instrument panel was influenced by Swarovski crystal, notes Horbury, and is backlit by a cluster of tiny LED lamps. The flying center console sweeps down from the top of the instrument panel and flows through to the back seat. One of the more technically nifty tricks is a rear-projection system that displays sharply on the upper glass face of the center stack.
From top to bottom, inside and out, Ford used recyclable and eco-friendly materials and hardware. The seats and doors, for example, are lined with chromium-free leather and recycled wood. The plush, silk-like carpeting is made from banana leaves and bark.
The lightweight body panels, meanwhile, are made from a plastic polymer sourced from recycled soda pop bottles. Trimming weight directly influences fuel economy.
Traditionally, automotive engineers have had to face a trade-off when it comes to performance, emissions and fuel-economy, but Ford officials insist the MKT can deliver all three through the use of the company's new EcoBoost system.
Also making its debut in Detroit , this year, this engine technology is, for the mechanically minded, a gasoline turbocharged direct injection system, or GTDI. Rather than mixed in with air, gasoline is injected directly into each cylinder's combustion chamber, resulting in a cleaner, more efficient burn. Turbocharging further improves performance. The MKS sedan will go to market with a since-turbo, 3.5-liter V-6 producing 340 horsepower, more than a match for the V-8s used by many of Lincoln 's competitors.
For the MKT show car, Lincoln uses a twin-turbo version of the 3.5-liter V-6, and here, fueled by E85, a mix of ethanol and gasoline, it makes a whopping 415 hp and 400 pound-feet of torque, similar to what you might expect of a 6.0-liter V-8, but in the EcoBoost package using significantly less fuel.
"All of this is generally feasible," says Horbury. Translation: the materials and technology are available, but don't expect the plastic panels any time soon. The banana leaf carpet? Maybe, if it can meet cost and durability targets.
The twin-turbo EcoBoost, hints Ford Motor Co. marketing chief Jim Farley, is all but certain to show up at Lincoln dealerships, most likely by the 2010 model year.
And while company officials start to whistle and stare at their shows when asked, it seems a fairly dead-on certainty that a production version of the MKT will make it onto the road by 2010, as well.
"These days," says Mark Fields, Ford's President of the Americas , "it's all about how to get things into production as quickly as possible."
The design will be toned down a wee bit - though not much, a senior design executive whispered - and "the interior is just showtime," according to Horbury, but look for a package that is more rounded and Lincolnesque than the decidedly hard-edged Ford Flex people-mover.
If our sources are right, the MKT would join a fast expanding list of new Lincoln products. "A step at a time," says Fields, acknowledging that the division has a lot of catching up to do in a segment where product proliferation has become the norm. But it takes time to get things right - not just at the plant, but also on the dealer side, where salespeople went years without seeing much that was new.
For Lincoln , the good news is that customers are responding well to what they're seeing. Though Ford, as a whole, was hit hard by last year's slumping market, Lincoln sales rose 9 percent. And if you don't count fleet numbers, retail sales jumped 15 percent, spurred on by the newest members of the line-up, the MKZ sedan and MKX crossover.
With the MKS and, soon after, an MKT, Lincoln hopes to keep the renaissance going.
01-14-2008, 01:03 PM
#3
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01-14-2008, 01:03 PM
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01-14-2008, 01:04 PM
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01-14-2008, 01:05 PM
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From Leftlanenews...
Lincoln has revealed the MKT Concept — a counterpart to the forthcoming Ford Flex crossover. The Flex was designed as a replacement to Ford's defunct minivan offerings and will go on sale this year. Since Lincoln has never sold only one crossover model and never a minivan, the MKT represents a whole new market for Lincoln.
Despite its Flex-based underpinnings, the MKT is anything but an exercise in badge engineering — after all, its exterior is considerably different from its Ford sibling, trading boxy for sleek.
The Lincoln MKT concept features an EcoBoost engine that's flex-fuel capable, providing the driver with the flexibility to switch back and forth between premium gasoline and E85 ethanol-gas blend. Burning these high-octane fuels, the MKT concept's V-6 engine delivers 415 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque - an impressive 118 horsepower per liter.
The MKT's face appears to be heavily inspired by the MKR sedan concept. Of course, many of the MKR's design cues were passed along to the production MKS, so the company's two newest offerings should look nice side-by-side in Lincoln showrooms.
Interestingly, the MKT appears to have a unique touch-screen interface in the center console, but so far Ford has made no comment on the technology.
Despite its Flex-based underpinnings, the MKT is anything but an exercise in badge engineering — after all, its exterior is considerably different from its Ford sibling, trading boxy for sleek.
The Lincoln MKT concept features an EcoBoost engine that's flex-fuel capable, providing the driver with the flexibility to switch back and forth between premium gasoline and E85 ethanol-gas blend. Burning these high-octane fuels, the MKT concept's V-6 engine delivers 415 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque - an impressive 118 horsepower per liter.
The MKT's face appears to be heavily inspired by the MKR sedan concept. Of course, many of the MKR's design cues were passed along to the production MKS, so the company's two newest offerings should look nice side-by-side in Lincoln showrooms.
Interestingly, the MKT appears to have a unique touch-screen interface in the center console, but so far Ford has made no comment on the technology.
01-14-2008, 01:09 PM
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Sorry; forgot to put "Concept" in the thread title. A production of this crossover hits the roads in 2010. I think it'll be a home run. The powertrains are awesome. And I love the direction the styling is headed.
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01-14-2008, 01:41 PM
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The sizzle in the Steak
01-11-2009, 11:20 PM
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* • Competes with: Acura MDX, Audi Q7, Infiniti FX, and BMW X6.
* • Available with 268-hp 3.7L V6 and 355-hp 3.5L V6 EcoBoost.
* • Arrives in dealerships later this summer.
Lincoln has entered the luxury crossover segment with its latest addition - the all-new 2010 Lincoln MKT. The three-row 7-passenger crossover offers an array of interior technology and other features that make life a little easier and safer - including available Adaptive Cruise Control, Collision Warning with Brake Support, Active Park Assist and Blind Spot monitoring.
Besides the innovative exterior with the split waterfall grille, the inside of the 2010 Lincoln MKT offers superior luxury craftsmanship with leather-trimmed seating and the optional second-row center console and jewel-like acrylic instrument cluster and LED white lighting. Customers have the option to pick from a fixed glass Panormaic Vista Roof with power assisted front and rear shades, 6 or 7-passenger variation with two different second-row seating configurations, second-row footrests, a dual-headrest Family Entertainment System with 7-inch DVD playback screens, a wide range of exterior paint colors and many more “business-class” like features (check out the press release after the jump for more options).
Power comes from two 3.7L V6 engine making a total of 268-hp with a maximum torque of 267 lb-ft or the 355-hp 3.5L V6 EcoBoost. Both engines are mated to a 6-speed SelectShift automatic transmission that offers a choice between fully automatic operation and manual control with paddle shifters. All-wheel-drive is standard on the MKT with EcoBoost and optional on the standard 3.7L V6.
* • Available with 268-hp 3.7L V6 and 355-hp 3.5L V6 EcoBoost.
* • Arrives in dealerships later this summer.
Lincoln has entered the luxury crossover segment with its latest addition - the all-new 2010 Lincoln MKT. The three-row 7-passenger crossover offers an array of interior technology and other features that make life a little easier and safer - including available Adaptive Cruise Control, Collision Warning with Brake Support, Active Park Assist and Blind Spot monitoring.
Besides the innovative exterior with the split waterfall grille, the inside of the 2010 Lincoln MKT offers superior luxury craftsmanship with leather-trimmed seating and the optional second-row center console and jewel-like acrylic instrument cluster and LED white lighting. Customers have the option to pick from a fixed glass Panormaic Vista Roof with power assisted front and rear shades, 6 or 7-passenger variation with two different second-row seating configurations, second-row footrests, a dual-headrest Family Entertainment System with 7-inch DVD playback screens, a wide range of exterior paint colors and many more “business-class” like features (check out the press release after the jump for more options).
Power comes from two 3.7L V6 engine making a total of 268-hp with a maximum torque of 267 lb-ft or the 355-hp 3.5L V6 EcoBoost. Both engines are mated to a 6-speed SelectShift automatic transmission that offers a choice between fully automatic operation and manual control with paddle shifters. All-wheel-drive is standard on the MKT with EcoBoost and optional on the standard 3.7L V6.
01-11-2009, 11:22 PM
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I hope it sells, for Ford's sake. I'll give them credit for this; Lincoln is filling their lineup up very quickly, and smartly (with the key bread and butter vehicles first).
????
01-12-2009, 12:22 AM
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What happened to the center stack (parts bin left-over buttons/switches) and the sleek, clean dash and steering wheel?
01-12-2009, 08:35 AM
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06-29-2010, 03:27 PM
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2011 Revealed
06-29-2010, 03:28 PM
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Press release...
-- 2011 Lincoln MKT continues to offer luxury crossover shoppers Lincoln’s signature design in an inviting three-row configuration, with intuitive technologies that will make customers’ lives easier – including available Adaptive Cruise Control, Collision Warning with Brake Support, Active Park Assist and Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with Cross Traffic Alert
-- The Lincoln MKT offers two fuel-efficient engine choices: a powerful 268 horsepower 3.7-liter V-6 or a 3.5-liter EcoBoost™ V-6 engine that delivers even more performance with 355 horsepower, without compromising its fuel economy
-- An unbeatable list of features comes standard on every Lincoln MKT, including a fixed glass roof, 10GB music jukebox, 110-volt power outlet, push-button start and the award-winning Lincoln SYNC® voice-activated communications and entertainment system
Lincoln continues to offer full-size luxury crossover customers a premium choice in the 2011 Lincoln MKT, a three-row crossover that delivers an optimal blend of distinctive design, interior spaciousness, fuel economy and technology.
Standard on every Lincoln MKT is the brand’s signature design – complete with a split-wing grille, a beveled chamfer along the vehicle’s shoulder line, a flowing cantrail that frames the greenhouse and full-width horizontal taillamps that span the subtly curved weight-saving magnesium liftgate that adds visual character while protecting generous rear cargo space.
Lincoln MKT craftsmanship is reflected in precise panel margins and in the high tactile quality of interior surfaces and trim. Inside, high-quality materials and precision-stitched craftsmanship are evident on every surface – from the leather-trimmed seating surfaces and floating armrests to the optional flow-through second-row center console and standard jewel-like acrylic instrument cluster with LED white lighting.
MKT buyers can choose between six- and seven-passenger models with two different second-row seating configurations. A standard 60/ 40 split folding rear bench seat features heated outboard seating positions. Power “fold and tumble” second-row bucket or captain’s seats, with heating, cooling and power-assisted lumbar adjustment are also available. A rear console-mounted five-quart-capacity refrigerator is available in the six-passenger seating configuration
Premium amenities include a standard fixed glass Panoramic Vista Roof™ with power-assisted front and rear sunshades – or the available Power Panoramic Vista Roof that opens for an expansive open-air experience. An available dual headrest Family Entertainment System with twin 7-inch DVD playback screens offers individual or simultaneous programming to second-row passengers, and available Active Park Assist allows perfect, hands-free parallel parking every time.
Quiet, confident motoring
The Lincoln MKT strikes an optimum balance between capable, driver-engaging handling and a smooth, quiet ride in all three rows, combining a luxury touring experience with an agile ride.
Key elements of Lincoln MKT suspension tuning include minimizing front end lift on acceleration, offering stable and engaging steering and handling characteristics that provide confidence to all drivers, all while delivering a luxurious ride quality consistent with Lincoln brand character.
The rear suspension system features a “one for one” shock absorber ratio. The resulting linear response gave the engineering team a stable baseline for suspension tuning, allowing the team to deliver a better balance between responsive handling and control as well as a smooth ride. It also improves rear suspension isolation and enables the use of 20-inch wheels.
Lincoln MKT delivers a new level of quiet confidence that delivers best-in-class levels of NVH control. Virtual modeling and wind tunnel tests helped engineers optimize the vehicle, influencing everything from side-view mirror placement and special sound deadening in the bulkhead to extensive exhaust system isolation and the inclusion of both an acoustic windshield and dual-layer front side glass to specifically reduce A-pillar wind noise.
Standard on all Lincoln MKT models with EcoBoost, an Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS) system replaces the traditional hydraulic power steering pump. Because it operates only when required for steering assistance, it contributes to lower fuel consumption than a hydraulic pump, which operates whenever the engine is running.
Using sensors, EPAS constantly measures the steering input applied by the driver to maintain the vehicle’s path; it continually resets to adapt to changing road conditions or the vehicle turning a corner. Ford’s pull-drift software technology gives the EPAS system the added ability to compensate for slight steering torque changes caused by environmental factors such as road crowning or steady crosswinds.
Premium innovations
Lincoln MKT delivers abundant technologies aimed at making life luxurious for both the driver and three rows of passengers. A holistic approach was used to develop these amenities, where ease of use and intuitive operation were key objectives. Nowhere is this focus more apparent than with Active Park Assist.
Enabled by the same EPAS system that delivers improved fuel economy and better handling over conventional steering systems, Active Park Assist employs an ultrasonic-based sensing system, as opposed to video camera-reliant competitive offerings. The result is simple, reliable hands-free parallel parking every time.
Active Park Assist activates at the touch of a button, reducing the risk of selecting an inappropriately sized parking space, detects the edges of adjacent objects to calculate optimized trajectory and steers the Lincoln MKT while coaching the driver through conventional throttle and braking inputs.
Active Park Assist also works in uphill parking situations, unlike competitive systems on the market, and parks the Lincoln MKT nearly three times faster – and four to eight inches closer to the curb – than the system found on the Lexus LS460L.
Inside, Lincoln SYNC® is standard on all Lincoln MKT models, providing occupants with voice-activated communications and infotainment, including 911 Assist and Vehicle Health Reports. SYNC is an advanced software platform that provides consumers the convenience and flexibility to bring digital media players and Bluetooth®-enabled mobile phones into their vehicles and operate the devices via voice commands or with the steering wheel’s redundant radio controls.
Along with the convenience of SYNC voice control, drivers can operate the climate control and audio system via voice or touch using the standard center-stack touch screen display. The audio system includes a CD/DVD/MP3 player with 10 speakers, SIRIUS satellite radio with a six-month subscription, audio input jack and 10GB hard drive. The system can also store and display up to 32 photos, sized 1.5MB or less, and the home screen can be personalized.
The available Elite Package includes voice-activated navigation and a THX II® Certified 5.1 Surround Audio System with 14 strategically aimed Premium Audio speakers. New this year, the navigation system can also receive HD Radio broadcasts, giving listeners access to additional free programming in areas where it is offered.
A SIRIUS Travel Link™ prepaid subscription is included with the Elite Package, providing coast-to-coast weather data, forecasts, fuel prices, sports scores, movie listings and more.
Technology under the skin
The Lincoln MKT features an advanced structural safety system that combines octagonal front frame rails, tunnel rails, and support members that are designed to absorb and redirect crash forces away from the passenger compartment.
Lincoln MKT also features Side Protection And Cabin Enhancement Architecture (SPACE®) incorporated to optimize side-impact occupant protection.
The SPACE system integrates a hydroformed high strength steel tube embedded in the floor that runs the width of the vehicle from B-pillar to B-pillar and along the rocker panels to form a safety cage to help protect passengers in side impact incidents.
Lincoln MKT also features Ford’s enhanced Personal Safety System™, combining multiple technologies to tailor the air bag package and safety belt functions to the individual passenger and the accident circumstances. The system can identify variables, such as severity of the crash, weight of the individual passenger and safety belt usage to adjust air bag deployment force.
Balancing power and efficiency
Fuel efficiency also comes standard on the Lincoln MKT – and customers have a choice of two powerful yet practical V-6 engines.
A 3.7-liter, 24-valve variation of the award-winning Duratec engine family is standard. Delivering 268 horsepower at 6,500 RPM and 267 ft.-lb. of torque at 4,250 RPM, this engine has been tuned to provide brisk acceleration and smooth power delivery.
A two-speed fuel pump and Aggressive Deceleration Fuel Shut-Off (ADFSO), combined with optimized transmission and final-drive gearing, allow this engine to deliver fuel economy of 17 city, 23 highway for Lincoln MKT with the 3.7-liter engine and front-wheel drive.
For even more performance-driving feel, Lincoln MKT also offers a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 offering the power of a normally aspirated V-8 with V-6 fuel economy, even with standard all-wheel drive. The EcoBoost V-6 delivers a class-leading 355 horsepower at 5,700 rpm, while generating 350 ft.-lb. of torque from 1,500 through 5,250 rpm.
EcoBoost is a global Ford strategy to deliver the power that customers want, combined with the fuel economy that they need. Combining gasoline direct injection with twin turbochargers and a smaller-displacement engine, EcoBoost can match the power output of larger, naturally aspirated engines while yielding torque and fuel economy gains.
Pressurized direct injection enables a higher compression ratio, while twin turbochargers work in tandem to reduce lag associated with earlier turbocharged engines. Even with additional horsepower, fuel economy is optimized by an increased compression ratio – enabled by charge-cooling air – and sophisticated knock controls.
Lincoln MKT is equipped with a six-speed SelectShift Automatic™ transmission. This advanced gearbox offers the driver a choice between fully automatic operation and manual control. Paddle shifters are integrated into the steering wheel spokes. Intuitive to operate, a squeeze back on either paddle will deliver an upshift, while a gentle push forward on either paddle will induce a “matched-rev” downshift.
This capability makes the Lincoln MKT driving experience sporty, yet smooth. Unlike other competitive transmissions, SelectShift won’t “second guess” the driver with an override shift. With SelectShift, manual control is truly manually controlled.
All-wheel drive is optional in the Lincoln MKT with the standard 3.7-liter V-6. The AWD option enhances the vehicle’s capability in a variety of weather conditions. The sophisticated AWD system is fully automatic, using an advanced array of internal electro-mechanical clutches to efficiently distribute torque between front and rear wheels as needed. AWD is standard in the Lincoln MKT with EcoBoost.
-- 2011 Lincoln MKT continues to offer luxury crossover shoppers Lincoln’s signature design in an inviting three-row configuration, with intuitive technologies that will make customers’ lives easier – including available Adaptive Cruise Control, Collision Warning with Brake Support, Active Park Assist and Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with Cross Traffic Alert
-- The Lincoln MKT offers two fuel-efficient engine choices: a powerful 268 horsepower 3.7-liter V-6 or a 3.5-liter EcoBoost™ V-6 engine that delivers even more performance with 355 horsepower, without compromising its fuel economy
-- An unbeatable list of features comes standard on every Lincoln MKT, including a fixed glass roof, 10GB music jukebox, 110-volt power outlet, push-button start and the award-winning Lincoln SYNC® voice-activated communications and entertainment system
Lincoln continues to offer full-size luxury crossover customers a premium choice in the 2011 Lincoln MKT, a three-row crossover that delivers an optimal blend of distinctive design, interior spaciousness, fuel economy and technology.
Standard on every Lincoln MKT is the brand’s signature design – complete with a split-wing grille, a beveled chamfer along the vehicle’s shoulder line, a flowing cantrail that frames the greenhouse and full-width horizontal taillamps that span the subtly curved weight-saving magnesium liftgate that adds visual character while protecting generous rear cargo space.
Lincoln MKT craftsmanship is reflected in precise panel margins and in the high tactile quality of interior surfaces and trim. Inside, high-quality materials and precision-stitched craftsmanship are evident on every surface – from the leather-trimmed seating surfaces and floating armrests to the optional flow-through second-row center console and standard jewel-like acrylic instrument cluster with LED white lighting.
MKT buyers can choose between six- and seven-passenger models with two different second-row seating configurations. A standard 60/ 40 split folding rear bench seat features heated outboard seating positions. Power “fold and tumble” second-row bucket or captain’s seats, with heating, cooling and power-assisted lumbar adjustment are also available. A rear console-mounted five-quart-capacity refrigerator is available in the six-passenger seating configuration
Premium amenities include a standard fixed glass Panoramic Vista Roof™ with power-assisted front and rear sunshades – or the available Power Panoramic Vista Roof that opens for an expansive open-air experience. An available dual headrest Family Entertainment System with twin 7-inch DVD playback screens offers individual or simultaneous programming to second-row passengers, and available Active Park Assist allows perfect, hands-free parallel parking every time.
Quiet, confident motoring
The Lincoln MKT strikes an optimum balance between capable, driver-engaging handling and a smooth, quiet ride in all three rows, combining a luxury touring experience with an agile ride.
Key elements of Lincoln MKT suspension tuning include minimizing front end lift on acceleration, offering stable and engaging steering and handling characteristics that provide confidence to all drivers, all while delivering a luxurious ride quality consistent with Lincoln brand character.
The rear suspension system features a “one for one” shock absorber ratio. The resulting linear response gave the engineering team a stable baseline for suspension tuning, allowing the team to deliver a better balance between responsive handling and control as well as a smooth ride. It also improves rear suspension isolation and enables the use of 20-inch wheels.
Lincoln MKT delivers a new level of quiet confidence that delivers best-in-class levels of NVH control. Virtual modeling and wind tunnel tests helped engineers optimize the vehicle, influencing everything from side-view mirror placement and special sound deadening in the bulkhead to extensive exhaust system isolation and the inclusion of both an acoustic windshield and dual-layer front side glass to specifically reduce A-pillar wind noise.
Standard on all Lincoln MKT models with EcoBoost, an Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS) system replaces the traditional hydraulic power steering pump. Because it operates only when required for steering assistance, it contributes to lower fuel consumption than a hydraulic pump, which operates whenever the engine is running.
Using sensors, EPAS constantly measures the steering input applied by the driver to maintain the vehicle’s path; it continually resets to adapt to changing road conditions or the vehicle turning a corner. Ford’s pull-drift software technology gives the EPAS system the added ability to compensate for slight steering torque changes caused by environmental factors such as road crowning or steady crosswinds.
Premium innovations
Lincoln MKT delivers abundant technologies aimed at making life luxurious for both the driver and three rows of passengers. A holistic approach was used to develop these amenities, where ease of use and intuitive operation were key objectives. Nowhere is this focus more apparent than with Active Park Assist.
Enabled by the same EPAS system that delivers improved fuel economy and better handling over conventional steering systems, Active Park Assist employs an ultrasonic-based sensing system, as opposed to video camera-reliant competitive offerings. The result is simple, reliable hands-free parallel parking every time.
Active Park Assist activates at the touch of a button, reducing the risk of selecting an inappropriately sized parking space, detects the edges of adjacent objects to calculate optimized trajectory and steers the Lincoln MKT while coaching the driver through conventional throttle and braking inputs.
Active Park Assist also works in uphill parking situations, unlike competitive systems on the market, and parks the Lincoln MKT nearly three times faster – and four to eight inches closer to the curb – than the system found on the Lexus LS460L.
Inside, Lincoln SYNC® is standard on all Lincoln MKT models, providing occupants with voice-activated communications and infotainment, including 911 Assist and Vehicle Health Reports. SYNC is an advanced software platform that provides consumers the convenience and flexibility to bring digital media players and Bluetooth®-enabled mobile phones into their vehicles and operate the devices via voice commands or with the steering wheel’s redundant radio controls.
Along with the convenience of SYNC voice control, drivers can operate the climate control and audio system via voice or touch using the standard center-stack touch screen display. The audio system includes a CD/DVD/MP3 player with 10 speakers, SIRIUS satellite radio with a six-month subscription, audio input jack and 10GB hard drive. The system can also store and display up to 32 photos, sized 1.5MB or less, and the home screen can be personalized.
The available Elite Package includes voice-activated navigation and a THX II® Certified 5.1 Surround Audio System with 14 strategically aimed Premium Audio speakers. New this year, the navigation system can also receive HD Radio broadcasts, giving listeners access to additional free programming in areas where it is offered.
A SIRIUS Travel Link™ prepaid subscription is included with the Elite Package, providing coast-to-coast weather data, forecasts, fuel prices, sports scores, movie listings and more.
Technology under the skin
The Lincoln MKT features an advanced structural safety system that combines octagonal front frame rails, tunnel rails, and support members that are designed to absorb and redirect crash forces away from the passenger compartment.
Lincoln MKT also features Side Protection And Cabin Enhancement Architecture (SPACE®) incorporated to optimize side-impact occupant protection.
The SPACE system integrates a hydroformed high strength steel tube embedded in the floor that runs the width of the vehicle from B-pillar to B-pillar and along the rocker panels to form a safety cage to help protect passengers in side impact incidents.
Lincoln MKT also features Ford’s enhanced Personal Safety System™, combining multiple technologies to tailor the air bag package and safety belt functions to the individual passenger and the accident circumstances. The system can identify variables, such as severity of the crash, weight of the individual passenger and safety belt usage to adjust air bag deployment force.
Balancing power and efficiency
Fuel efficiency also comes standard on the Lincoln MKT – and customers have a choice of two powerful yet practical V-6 engines.
A 3.7-liter, 24-valve variation of the award-winning Duratec engine family is standard. Delivering 268 horsepower at 6,500 RPM and 267 ft.-lb. of torque at 4,250 RPM, this engine has been tuned to provide brisk acceleration and smooth power delivery.
A two-speed fuel pump and Aggressive Deceleration Fuel Shut-Off (ADFSO), combined with optimized transmission and final-drive gearing, allow this engine to deliver fuel economy of 17 city, 23 highway for Lincoln MKT with the 3.7-liter engine and front-wheel drive.
For even more performance-driving feel, Lincoln MKT also offers a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 offering the power of a normally aspirated V-8 with V-6 fuel economy, even with standard all-wheel drive. The EcoBoost V-6 delivers a class-leading 355 horsepower at 5,700 rpm, while generating 350 ft.-lb. of torque from 1,500 through 5,250 rpm.
EcoBoost is a global Ford strategy to deliver the power that customers want, combined with the fuel economy that they need. Combining gasoline direct injection with twin turbochargers and a smaller-displacement engine, EcoBoost can match the power output of larger, naturally aspirated engines while yielding torque and fuel economy gains.
Pressurized direct injection enables a higher compression ratio, while twin turbochargers work in tandem to reduce lag associated with earlier turbocharged engines. Even with additional horsepower, fuel economy is optimized by an increased compression ratio – enabled by charge-cooling air – and sophisticated knock controls.
Lincoln MKT is equipped with a six-speed SelectShift Automatic™ transmission. This advanced gearbox offers the driver a choice between fully automatic operation and manual control. Paddle shifters are integrated into the steering wheel spokes. Intuitive to operate, a squeeze back on either paddle will deliver an upshift, while a gentle push forward on either paddle will induce a “matched-rev” downshift.
This capability makes the Lincoln MKT driving experience sporty, yet smooth. Unlike other competitive transmissions, SelectShift won’t “second guess” the driver with an override shift. With SelectShift, manual control is truly manually controlled.
All-wheel drive is optional in the Lincoln MKT with the standard 3.7-liter V-6. The AWD option enhances the vehicle’s capability in a variety of weather conditions. The sophisticated AWD system is fully automatic, using an advanced array of internal electro-mechanical clutches to efficiently distribute torque between front and rear wheels as needed. AWD is standard in the Lincoln MKT with EcoBoost.
11-17-2011, 09:56 AM
#27
Safety Car
2013
Lincoln’s full-size MKT crossover hasn’t sold in the quantities the automaker would like to see, so the model gets a fairly substantial refresh for the 2013 model year. Most apparent, even to casual onlookers, is the refined exterior styling, starting with a less-pronounced waterfall grille.
The new front end gets more grille slats and smoother lines, too, and the restyle goes a long way in making the MKT more visually appealing. It’s the changes underneath the skin, however, that Lincoln believes will draw buyers back into showrooms.
A more powerful and more fuel-efficient 3.7-liter V-6 becomes the base engine for 2013, and it’s good for both 300 horsepower and 25 mpg in highway fuel economy. Buyers wanting more scoot from their MKT can opt for a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6, which produces 355 horsepower and returns 22 mpg in highway fuel economy.
Both engines get mated to 6-speed automatic transmissions, which include paddle shifters with full manual control and rev-matching downshifts. Select MKT models also come with Lincoln Drive Control, which allows the driver to select between Normal, Sport and Comfort modes, depending upon conditions, road and passenger feedback.
Lincoln Drive Control automatically adjusts suspension settings, throttle response, steering effort, transmission upshifts and traction control based on the mode selected.
Buyers opting for the EcoBoost engine will also get a new Continuously Controlled Damping (CCD) suspension, which Lincoln claims will strike the optimum balance between handling and ride comfort. Measuring changes in road surface and vehicle dynamics some 500 times per second, the CCD system can vary suspension settings in as little as 11 milliseconds.
Base MKT models remain front wheel drive, but all wheel drive is standard on EcoBoost variants. To increase fuel economy, the AWD system routes power to the front wheels only during normal driving conditions. When conditions indicate that wheel slip may occur, power is re-routed in as little as 16 milliseconds.
Inside, Lincoln has refreshed the interior styling for 2013, but the emphasis remains on passenger comfort. Leather for the front and 2nd row seats is sourced from Bridge of Weir, who provides material to automakers such as Aston Martin and Mercedes-Benz.
More sound deadening has been added for 2013, too, and side-view mirrors were redesigned to reduce wind noise. As a result, the 2013 Lincoln MKT is noticeably quieter inside than the 2012 model it replaces.
Ford’s SYNC system has been improved for 2013, and the Lincoln MKT benefits from an all-new MyLincoln Touch system, which the automaker claims is its most advanced driver / automobile interface. Given the criticism Ford has faced over earlier versions, we’re sure this has been redesigned to be more intuitive.
If safety is a concern, the MKT comes with inflatable rear seatbelts, Roll Stability Control, Curve Control, a lane keeping system, a collision warning system, adaptive cruise control and a blind spot information system. MyKey, which lets parents set limits for new drivers, is also a standard feature.
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