• Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Auto Trends Magazine

Car reviews, industry news, & advice.

2017 Continental

Black Label: 2017 Lincoln Continental

June 7, 2017 by admin 10 Comments

A new flagship sedan for Lincoln.


2017 Lincoln Continental
2017 Lincoln Continental Black Label AWD.

One of the most storied model names in autodom is back, as in Continental by Lincoln. The all-new model and flagship sedan provides a much-needed boost for a marque that once claimed top-selling status amongst luxury brands. In more recent years Lincoln has languished in eighth place, trailing all three German and three Japanese luxury brands as well as its American adversary, Cadillac.

The 2017 Lincoln Continental replaces the forgettable MKS, supplying a longer wheelbase for upholding what’s nothing less than a dignified canvas. The Continental advances a new design language, also evident on the smaller MKZ and soon to appear on the 2018 Navigator. A new one-piece grille, with a signature Lincoln logo honeycomb mesh, amplifies the current expression.

The 2017 Continental offers few surprises as it maintains the silhouette of the concept Continental introduced at the 2015 New York International Auto Show. That concept was the most discussed Lincoln products showcased in at least a generation. The one design change made since then was a significant one — the elimination of suicide doors (front-hinged first-row doors; rear-hinged second-row doors). Figure that safety regulations and/or insurance considerations influenced that change.

Bringing the Continental name back was a stroke of marketing genius and timed perfectly. Continental is a name familiar to mature Americans — its reappearance comes as Lincoln celebrates its centennial this summer. Last found on a Lincoln product in 2002, the name is synonymous with full-size luxury, although the Town Car was the brand’s de facto flagship until its 2011 demise.


2017 Lincoln Continental


Through the intervening years, much of Lincoln’s product line offered a series of models with a three-letter designation, with the first two M and K. That was Lincoln’s way of aligning its naming convention with what other luxury brands were doing —deemphasizing individual models, while drawing full attention to the make.

But Lincoln’s methodology has always been confusing, especially to Lincoln loyalists who never understood the change. Resurrecting Continental suggests that the three-letter naming convention will gradually disappear. In any case, at least Lincoln now has Continental and Navigator to lead the way down a trusted and established path, with MKC, MKT, MKX and MKZ models following.

A stretched version of the platform underpinning the Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ powers the Continental. Here, Lincoln added about six inches between the wheels to provide excellent legroom front and back. Thus, the Lincoln offers a slightly longer wheelbase than an Audi A6, but is shorter than the Audi A8L. Other models to compare, include the BMW 5 Series, Genesis G80, Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Volvo S90, Lexus GS, and the Cadillac XTS.

2017 Lincoln Continental

The 2017 Lincoln Continental is available in four grades: Premiere ($44,720), Select ($47,675), Reserve ($54,075) and Black Label ($63,075). Add $925 for the destination charge. Front-wheel drive is standard; all-wheel drive is available as a $2,000 option. My test model was a 2017 Continental Black Label all-wheel drive carrying a near-$80,000 price tag.

Three V6 engine choices are available, beginning with a 3.7-liter naturally aspirated V6, which is standard on the Premiere and Select. A twin-turbo 2.7-liter V6 is available on the Select and is the standard engine on the Reserve and Black Label. Further, both the Reserve and Black Label offer a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 exclusively to Lincoln. Unlike the other two engines, no Ford product will see this 400-horsepower dynamo as it represents one of the more significant examples of brand separation between the two.


2017 Lincoln Continental


Polished, Elegant Exterior

Beyond the stately grille, the 2017 Continental offers a sleek silhouette with several notable touches. The door handles are one such feature as they’re integrated within the beltline. Simply slip a finger inside the handle and pull — the door opens with ease. And as you approach the Lincoln the mirrors unfold and front and rear approach lights activate.

The wheels make a statement and are the same design showcased on the concept — at least with the Black Label model. Specifically, they’re 20-inch wheels comprised of polished aluminum with a black label center cap. I won’t say the wheels make the sedan, but they certainly make a statement. Other choices include 18-, 19- and 20-inch aluminum wheels — painted or with chrome inserts.

Additional features of note include adaptive HID headlamps and LED daytime running lights, backlit door handles (terrific for low lighting conditions), and dual integrated bright exhaust tips.


2017 Lincoln Continental
2017 Lincoln Continental


In the Cabin

Inside, you’ll find a cabin that’s roomy, upscale and covered in high-end materials. My Black Label model offered one of three color themes, exclusive to the line — Chalet, Rhapsody in Blue, and Thoroughbred. Mine was a Thoroughbred — a light brown color scheme with thick leather dressing the dashboard, door inlays, and the covered storage compartment. Further, a wood and leather-wrapped steering wheel, Alcantara headliner, and Venetian leather-trimmed seats bring this model up another notch.

The rear compartment seats three, but is ideal for two. Indeed, when you move into the upper echelon of the Continental range, you’ll find the back seat most desirable. That is, if you opt for the Rear-Seat Package ($4,300), what transforms the compartment into something wholly elegant.

2017 Lincoln ContinentalIn exchange for a hefty cash outlay option, you’ll receive a center armrest console with a digital display, sun blinds, partially reclining heated and cooled seats, and four-way adjustable lumbar support. Moreover, Lincoln went one step further by adding front passenger seat control — this means you can move that seat forward for cross-your-legs comfort.

A couple of points about the interior need further examination. First, headroom is not as generous as you’d find in Lincoln models of yore. Specifically, there is not much space between the top of the heads and the headliner in the rear compartment. Tall passengers may find the space tight — measuring 6-feet, I barely avoided scraping the roof.

Second, and entirely related to the top of your head — rear compartment access and egress means carefully ducking your head. Lincoln Town Car owners will notice the difference and may come away disappointed. You may end up with a bump if you’re not careful.

As for technology, the Continental pulls out all the stops. The base audio system offers 10 speakers; my test model had the 19-speaker Revel audio system — one step up from the available 13-speaker Revel system.

The current version of the SYNC telematics system is a huge improvement over the previous generation, something that should please the owners.


2017 Lincoln Continental

2017 Lincoln Continental


On the Road

If you’re looking for a quiet, comfortable and large luxury sedan, the Lincoln Continental should be on your list. That said, which Continental you choose depends largely on whether you’re okay with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, as well as just how much power you want from your engine.

I cannot comment on the first two engines or front-wheel drive, but I will surmise that customers who place an emphasis on handling will want power sent to all four wheels, as needed. And that’s exactly what this all-wheel drive Lincoln does when you step on the accelerator — power distribution goes to each wheel. Even with torque mitigation technology, the front-wheel-drive models must have at least some torque steer — namely, understeer — the sensation where the front wheels shift when tapping full power.


2017 Lincoln Continental


Off the mark acceleration is quite good with the 3.0L V6, but when needing a quick burst of passing power, the Continental executes flawlessly. The ride is somewhat firm, yet comfortable, although the Lincoln doesn’t manage bumps as well as some cars, with a jarring sensation felt whenever I crossed a pothole. On curvilinear roads the big sedan remains poised, the electric steering responding immediately, even with the slightest movement.

The one demerit with the 2017 Continental is pairing each engine with a six-speed automatic transmission. Although the transmission shifts smoothly up and down the band curve, more gears would help. Likely, the 10-speed automatic Ford co-developed with GM wasn’t available when the new Lincoln was ready.

That said, most competitors have long offered at least seven or eight gears. The new baseline is now nine or 10 gears for improved fuel economy. Incidentally, my test model makes an EPA-estimated 16 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.


2017 Lincoln Continental


Parting Thoughts

That the Continental is a wonderful departure from the MKS is a given. Lincoln needed a new model to reset the brand and the Continental answered.

There are a few things shoppers should keep in mind when considering the Continental:

1), The price differences are dramatic. With a base price in the mid-$40,000 range and a fully-equipped Black Label model costing more than $82,000, there’s a huge separation between models. My recommendation for shoppers is to familiarize themselves on the four grades offered, the package options, and well as the drive and engine choices.

2), All-wheel drive is best. Front-wheel drive is standard across the Continental range, but that may not satisfy your needs. All-wheel drive is a $2,000 option, what provides improved handling for a more satisfactory driving experience. I hesitate to endorse front-wheel drive products on large sedans, especially for luxury models, and for the reasons outlined here.

To sum up, the 2017 Lincoln Continental should attract its share of traditional American luxury car buyers. It is doubtful that it’ll pull many away from the German marques, Lexus or Infiniti. Acura, Volvo and Genesis owners might take a look as well as Cadillac owners.


2017 Lincoln Continental


2017 Lincoln Continental Black Label


Lincoln Continental
Segment large luxury sedan
Base Sticker Price $65,075 (all-wheel drive)
Price as Tested $78,920
Standard Engine 2.7-liter, twin-turbo V6
Horsepower 335 @ 5,700 RPM
Torque (lb.-ft.) 380 @ 3,500 RPM
Transmission Six-speed automatic
Available Engine 3.0-liter, twin-turbo V6
Horsepower 400 @ 5,750
Torque (lb.-ft.) 400 @ 2,750 RPM
Transmission Six-speed automatic
Seating 2+3
Curb Weight (pounds) 4,346 to 4,547 pounds
Wheelbase (inches) 117.9
Length (inches) 201.4
Width (inches) 82.3 (including mirrors)
Height (inches) 58.5
Head room (f;r — inches) 39.3; 37.7
Leg room (f;r — inches) 44.4; 41.3
Shoulder room (f;r — inches) 58.3; 55.9
Hip room (f;r — inches) 55.9; 54.8
Storage (cubic feet) 16.7
Gross vehicle weight (pounds) NR
Towing (pounds) NR
Payload (pounds) NR
Fuel regular
Fuel Tank (gallons) 19
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway) 18/27 (2.7L FWD); 16/24 (3.0L AWD)
Manufacturing Plant Flat Rock, Michigan

See Also — Lincoln-Bentley Squabble Makes for Good Theater


2017 Lincoln Continental


Photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. All rights reserved.

Filed Under: New Car Reviews Tagged With: 2017 cars, 2017 Continental, all-wheel drive, BLACK LABEL, Lincoln, Lincoln Continental, luxury, sedan, turbo

Primary Sidebar

Recent Posts

  • Peugeot May Not Return to the U.S. Market After All
  • Next-Generation Sedona Minivan Will Be Renamed the Kia Carnival
  • GM Launches BrightDrop, Its Commercial EV Brand
  • The Refreshed and Handsome
    Lexus IS 350 F Sport
  • What We Know About the All-New 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L

Recent Comments

  • Fiat Chrysler Peugeot: Now What? — Auto Trends Magazine on Peugeot May Not Return to the U.S. Market After All
  • Peugeot Prepares for its U.S. Return — Auto Trends Magazine on Peugeot May Not Return to the U.S. Market After All
  • Peugeot May Not Return to the U.S. Market After All — Auto Trends Magazine on Stellantis Logo Revealed by Peugeot, Fiat Chrysler Ahead of Spring Merger
  • Peugeot May Not Return to the U.S. Market After All — Auto Trends Magazine on What We Know About the All-New 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
  • Peugeot May Not Return to the U.S. Market After All — Auto Trends Magazine on Peugeot Prepares for its U.S. Return

Archives

  • January 2021
  • December 2020
  • November 2020
  • October 2020
  • September 2020
  • August 2020
  • July 2020
  • June 2020
  • May 2020
  • April 2020
  • March 2020
  • February 2020
  • January 2020
  • December 2019
  • November 2019
  • October 2019
  • September 2019
  • August 2019
  • July 2019
  • June 2019
  • May 2019
  • April 2019
  • March 2019
  • February 2019
  • January 2019
  • December 2018
  • November 2018
  • October 2018
  • September 2018
  • August 2018
  • July 2018
  • June 2018
  • May 2018
  • April 2018
  • March 2018
  • February 2018
  • January 2018
  • December 2017
  • November 2017
  • October 2017
  • September 2017
  • August 2017
  • July 2017
  • June 2017
  • May 2017
  • April 2017
  • March 2017
  • February 2017
  • January 2017
  • December 2016
  • November 2016
  • October 2016
  • September 2016
  • August 2016
  • July 2016
  • June 2016
  • May 2016
  • April 2016
  • March 2016
  • February 2016
  • January 2016
  • December 2015
  • November 2015
  • October 2015
  • September 2015
  • August 2015
  • July 2015
  • June 2015
  • May 2015
  • April 2015
  • March 2015
  • February 2015
  • January 2015
  • December 2014
  • November 2014
  • October 2014
  • September 2014
  • August 2014
  • July 2014
  • June 2014
  • May 2014
  • April 2014
  • March 2014
  • February 2014
  • January 2014
  • December 2013
  • November 2013
  • October 2013
  • September 2013
  • August 2013
  • July 2013
  • June 2013
  • May 2013
  • April 2013
  • March 2013
  • February 2013
  • January 2013
  • December 2012
  • November 2012
  • October 2012
  • September 2012
  • August 2012
  • July 2012
  • June 2012
  • May 2012
  • April 2012
  • March 2012
  • February 2012
  • January 2012
  • December 2011
  • November 2011
  • October 2011
  • September 2011
  • August 2011
  • July 2011
  • June 2011
  • May 2011
  • April 2011
  • March 2011
  • February 2011
  • January 2011
  • December 2010
  • November 2010
  • October 2010
  • September 2010
  • August 2010
  • July 2010
  • June 2010
  • May 2010
  • April 2010
  • March 2010
  • February 2010
  • January 2010
  • December 2009
  • November 2009
  • October 2009
  • September 2009
  • August 2009
  • July 2009
  • June 2009
  • May 2009
  • April 2009
  • March 2009
  • February 2009
  • January 2009
  • December 2008
  • November 2008
  • October 2008
  • September 2008
  • August 2008
  • July 2008
  • June 2008
  • May 2008
  • April 2008

Categories

  • Auto Parts
  • Auto Shows
  • Automotive Career
  • Automotive News
  • Book Reviews
  • Car Tips
  • Classics & Discontinued Models
  • Commentary
  • Commercial Vehicles
  • Concept Vehicles
  • Dealers
  • Engineering & Technology
  • Fleet
  • Fun News
  • Maintenance & Repairs
  • Motorsport
  • New Car Reviews
  • New Models
  • Ownership Experience
  • Product Reviews
  • Special
  • Specifications
  • Uncategorized

Meta

  • Log in
  • Entries feed
  • Comments feed
  • WordPress.org

New!
Check out our Jobs Board!

via GIPHY

Subscribe to Auto Trends

Subscribe in a reader

Social Media

Visit our social media pages:
Facebook
Twitter
Google+
Pinterest

Where is Matt Currently Published?

The Carolinian (new car reviews)
NAPA Know How Blog
On the Road Again

Pages

  • About
  • Authors List
  • Automotive Brochures
  • Contact
  • Industry Jobs
  • Write
    • Style Guide

Categories

Recent Posts

  • Peugeot May Not Return to the U.S. Market After All
  • Next-Generation Sedona Minivan Will Be Renamed the Kia Carnival
  • GM Launches BrightDrop, Its Commercial EV Brand
  • The Refreshed and Handsome
    Lexus IS 350 F Sport
  • What We Know About the All-New 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
  • The All-New and Formidable 2021 Nissan Rogue Crossover
  • Fuel-Efficiency and AWD Champion: 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
  • Midsize Performance Master: 2021 Hyundai Sonata N-Line
  • Performance Hatchback: The All-New 2021 Mazda Mazda3 Turbo!
  • NACTOY Finalists For 2021 Offer Familiar and Futuristic Choices
  • Super Trooper: Nissan Titan Pickup
  • Behind the Wheel of the Popular 2021 Toyota Corolla Sedan
  • Lucid Motors Completes Arizona Factory
  • A Robust Turbodiesel Comes to the Chevrolet Silverado 1500
  • Mid-Engine Masterpiece: The Eighth-Generation Chevrolet Corvette Stingray
  • Compact Performance:
    2021 Cadillac CT4-V
  • All-Wheel Drive Supplies the Nissan Altima With a Competitive Edge
  • Return of the Toyota Venza!
  • Lexus Brings a Convertible to the Gorgeous LC 500 Line
  • Stellantis Logo Revealed by Peugeot, Fiat Chrysler Ahead of Spring Merger
  • Preview: 2021 Nissan Rogue Crossover
  • How to Fix a Broken Rivian Vehicle
  • Cadillac Gets Most Things Right
    With the XT6 Crossover
  • The High Potency Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye Widebody Coupe
  • The All-New Chevrolet Trailblazer Forges Urban Paths
  • The Small Infiniti QX50 is Big on Tech and Engineering Features
  • Toyota Brings the TRD Treatment to the Midsize Camry Sedan
  • The Kia K5 Outclasses Most Competitors, Including the Departing Optima
  • Can the Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road Handle Tough Terrain?
  • Subaru WRX Showcases Its Performance Chops
  • Infiniti Overhauls QX80 Trims and Makes This Important Safety Feature Standard
  • Ford F-250 Super Duty and a Trail-Stomping Tremor Package
  • A Cut Above: Mazda’s Mazda3
  • The Highly Efficient Hyundai Ioniq
  • Volkswagen Atlas Revels in its Strengths
  • General Motors Deepens Partnership With Honda, Takes Stake in Nikola
  • Smart Concept: Jeep Grand Wagoneer
  • More Than an Encore: Buick Encore GX
  • Got a Recall? There’s an App for That.
  • Refreshed Nissan Titan Makes Its Case
  • BMW M235i: Not Your Typical Coupe
  • Hot Stuff: Lexus RC F Sport Coupe
  • Will the Electric Vehicle Boom Create New-Found Dependencies for Foreign Minerals?
  • Rumors? We Got Them!
  • About Bollinger Motors, EV Startup
  • Raptor Fighter: Ram 1500 TRX!
  • White Space Wonder: 2020 Nissan Rogue Sport
  • About the 2021 Genesis GV80
  • The Toyota Supra Gets a Four-Cylinder Engine and We’re Simply Gobsmacked!
  • Jim Farley Appointed Ford President and CEO
January 2021
S M T W T F S
 12
3456789
10111213141516
17181920212223
24252627282930
31  
« Dec    

Copyright © 2021 · News Pro on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in