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New! 2018 Lincoln Navigator Black Label

March 9, 2018 by admin 13 Comments

Lincoln Black Label in the land of the $100K SUV.

2018 Lincoln Navigator Black Label
2018 Lincoln Navigator Black Label.

The Lincoln brand is one in transition, a luxury marque that once outsold the likes of Cadillac, BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Lexus. But that was 1998 and the segment was far different from what it is today, with more brands competing than ever and seven of those now outselling Lincoln year after year.

Lincoln may never again regain its segment leadership, but that’s probably not a priority for the Ford Motor Company. Instead, the “Lincoln Motor Company” is in the midst of a makeover, one that seeks greater differentiation between mainstream Ford and upscale Lincoln products. The hope here is for a new generation of Lincoln buyers, customers who like an unabashedly American brand and naming convention, and aren’t hung up on an alphanumeric nomenclature.

Enter the 2018 Lincoln Navigator, the latest example of what this now century-old marque has to offer. Yes, it is built on Ford’s F-Series truck architecture and shares its platform with the Ford Expedition. But the differentiation is apparent on the outside and even more so once you open the doors and take a look around inside.

2018 Lincoln Navigator Black Label

2018 Lincoln Navigator: Overview

Lincoln offers the 2018 Navigator with standard and extended wheelbases, along with rear-wheel drive (2WD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) models. It begins with the Premiere trim ($72,055), followed by Select ($76,055), Reserve ($81,025) and Black Label ($93,705).

Lincoln offers the Premiere in the standard wheelbase guise only. Add $2,655 for four-wheel drive and $4,675 for the extended wheelbase. Select and Reserve models offer the most configuration choices, i.e. standard or extended wheelbases, two- or four-wheel drive. The Black Label edition is four-wheel drive only, but you still have a choice between standard and extended wheelbases.

I was considering presenting a breakdown of the various packages offered, but then I realized it would only complicate matters. Luxury manufacturers, including Lincoln, routinely offer several packages as well as individual updates to the paint, wheels and so on. Quite frankly, the list is too involved to cover here.

Here’s the thing: you’ll probably pay at least $80,000 to acquire the 2018 Navigator once your layout and package options are considered. Right off, you’re considering a model that’s in the same league as the Cadillac Escalade, Lexus LX570, Land Rover Range Rover and Mercedes GLS. If your budget can’t sustain this high cost, then consider the Ford Expedition.

Lincoln Black Label With Concierge Services

My test model was the 2018 Lincoln Navigator Black Label edition. That said, Black Label isn’t just a trim, rather it also encompasses concierge and other special services.

What this means is when you choose a Black Label model, a whole host of services are included. For instance, if you live within 30 miles of a Lincoln showroom in most states, participating dealers will bring your new Navigator to you.

Further, this suite includes unlimited car washes at the dealership, annual detailing, maintenance pickup and delivery, as well as travel and culinary advantages. The idea here is not just to provide an elevated level of elegance with the SUV, but the services to go with it.

All this comes at a cost, of course. Interestingly, Lincoln shoppers are proving that they’re willing to pay for it. Indeed, as I researched this model I discovered that 85 percent of Navigator buyers are opting for the two top trims. Further, demand is so strong that dealer supply isn’t keeping up with demand. As a result, Ford has increased production of both the Navigator and the Expedition.

2018 Lincoln Navigator Black Label

Exterior Highlights

How do you take an otherwise slab-sided SUV and imbue it with elegance? In the case of the 2018 Navigator you carefully rework the sheet metal to supply just the right among of ornamentation and pizzazz without appearing overwrought.

Lincoln succeeded in this endeavor by imbuing the front fascia with a large honeycomb grille and distinctive lights. On closer inspection the grille pattern matches the Lincoln emblem for an altogether handsome look. Notably, when this key fob is in your hand, this SUV offers a series of approach features, including deploying running boards and numerous lights, including the door handles, mirror puddle lamps, front and back LED lights and the emblem itself. This makes for a stunning show, while also delivering an extra measure of safety.

Lincoln’s choice of colors was carefully thought out, although depending on your choice, you’ll pay extra for it. For example, the Chrome Crystal Blue metallic paint on my test model and the Chroma Molten Gold also available are a $1,750 upgrade. That’s one of the few extras on the Black Label that may ultimately push your final price above $100,000.

One of the significant touches on the 2018 Navigator are its 22-inch, 21-spoke ultra-bright machined wheels with ebony black painted pockets. The design was first applied to the Continental and is now found on the Black Label. On this big SUV, the look executes quite well.

Other Black Label exterior features include automatic headlamps, bright belt molding, a luggage rack, panoramic vista roof and dual exhaust tips. Tow hooks are included with the four-wheel drive models.

2018 Lincoln Navigator Black Label

Interior Highlights

Where the Navigator’s exterior serves as the bait, the interior is this SUV’s hook. Here, Lincoln supplies a seven-seat layout with not an uncomfortable seat to be found. This SUV seems like a rolling living room and serves in that capacity too with its reclining second-row captains chairs, numerous drink holders, ambient light, reading lights and local climate control switches.

The dashboard is nothing like a Ford truck nor is it like anything else Lincoln has applied to an SUV previously. The full force of Black Label elegance is released here with three design theme choices available: Chalet, Destination and Yacht Club. My test model had the last one, which incorporated beautiful blue leather surfaces, beige lacquered wood and aluminum trim. Lincoln paid special attention to each surface, nook and cranny to deliver an incomparable level of luxury or at least not comparable to anything the company has produced previously.

The front seats are wide, supportive and amazingly comfortable. The requisite seat extender is there as well as heating, cooling and available massaging features. That last category is actually a $1,250 upgrade that brings in upgraded seats with 30-way adjustment and massaging from your shoulders down to the back of your knees.

Navigator bigness is accompanied by an equally large instrument panel and color displays. The finer details of the cabin give this SUV its styling points, from the look and layout of the center console to the feel of the door handles and to every switch, knob and button.

As before, Lincoln places the transmission controls on the dashboard. This time, you’ll find a horizontal layout with switches, replacing the previous vertical design with buttons. I’m not sure why I think the new arrangement is better, but it seems natural. It also allows for a floating console design with ample storage room and hidden recesses underneath.

Lincoln wasted nothing with the 2018 Navigator, ensuring each touchpoint has its own design. Generations ago, cabin speakers were ugly, intrusive and seemingly out of place. Even in recent years, they often seemed like an odd match in some cabins. But not in the new Lincoln Navigator as each speaker is artistically designed and enhances the overall look.

2018 Lincoln Navigator Black Label

Safety & Technology

The Lincoln’s bigness is one of this model’s strongest safety points. If you’re in an accident, you have three tons of mass to ease the blow.

Lincoln also includes a full suite of safety equipment, including a head-up display, adaptive cruise control with full stop, a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, blind spot warning, lane keep assist and a 360-degree camera. It doesn’t include autonomous driving features yet, but it does provide active park assist.

The Lincoln SYNC 3 telematics interface is a much-needed improvement on the previous model. Here, Lincoln supplies a 10-inch color display that seems bolted on to the center console. I like the look, especially its sturdy feel. The system provides numerous features, including Siri Eyes Free, smartphone integration, voice-activated navigation and WiFi.

You can connect up to 10 devices at a time and surf the web to your heart’s content. The 20-speaker Revel II audio package delivers concert-hall sound throughout the cabin. Other tech features include six USB ports, including two in the second row, a 110-volt outlet and a wireless device charging pad.

Lincoln Navigator Performance

We haven’t seen a V8 engine in the Lincoln Navigator in several years as a twin-turbo V6 moves this big SUV. For 2018, the 3.5-liter V6 engine is updated, outfitted with new aluminum heads, a composite oil sump, BorgWarner turbos and a new port fuel injection systems, among other improvements.

The result is a much more powerful engine delivering an astounding 450 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. That’s easily the most powerful engine Ford offers, outstripping the power from its naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V8 engine. The transmission is new too, a 10-speed automatic that syncs well with the new engine.

The 2018 Navigator delivers more than sufficient power with very good off-the-mark acceleration along with explosive performance when you need it, such as when entering a highway or passing traffic on that same road. Steering is weighty and handling is exactly what you expect with a three-ton, 18.5-foot-long SUV.

There was one surprise with the Navigator I hadn’t expected. Although the ride is comfortable, I noticed a slight amount of residual bounce over the rear axle when passing over uneven surfaces such as my neighborhood’s speed bumps. Just one week earlier, I had the Chevrolet Suburban and that bouncing sensation was absent when traveling down the same road. The Navigator features an independent rear suspension, while GM’s big SUVs utilize a live rear axle suspension.

2018 Lincoln Navigator Black Label

Parting Thoughts: Lincoln Navigator Black Label

The 2018 Navigator is a much more dramatic change for the Lincoln moniker than the new Continental was. Not simply because people are more apt buy a large SUV than a big sedan, but for the design upgrade the Navigator represents.

Buyers will likely begin their search with the Select trim and go from there. What’s hard to avoid are the amenities found with the two top trims, especially with the Black Label itself. Clearly, the new Navigator out-pimps the current Cadillac Escalade, matches well with Range Rover and I’ve been told that it makes a run for the Bentley Bentayga costing twice as much, although I haven’t seen it.

All in all, the 2018 Lincoln Navigator offers a clean departure from the previous model, while bringing the brand into new territory. While the Black Label trim itself executes well, the concierge services may be a determining factor whether the Lincoln marque has everything luxury shoppers expect.


2018 Lincoln Navigator Black Label

  • Sticker price from $93,705, $96,905 (plus $1,195 destination)
  • Price as tested: $100,000 (estimated)
  • Seats 7 or 8 occupants
  • Engine: 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 gas
  • 450 horsepower @ 5,500 RPM
  • 510 foot-pounds of torque @ 3,000 RPM
  • 10-speed automatic transmission
  • Wheelbase: 122.5/131.6 inches
  • Length: 210/221.9 inches
  • Width: 78.8 inches
  • Height: 76.1 inches
  • Passenger volume: 172/165.3 cubic feet
  • Storage volume: 19.3,34.3/57.5,73.3/103.3,120.2 cubic feet
  • Towing capacity: 8,700/8,400 (2WD); 8,300/8,100 (4WD) pounds
  • EPA: 16/21 mpg
  • Regular grade gasoline
  • Fuel tank: 23 gallons
  • Curb weight: From 5,855/6,056 pounds
  • IIHS safety rating: NR
  • Limited vehicle warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles
  • Powertrain warranty: 6 years/70,000 miles
  • Corrosion warranty: 5 years/unlimited miles
  • Vehicle assembly: Louisville, Kentucky USA

Lincoln Navigator Black Label photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. All rights reserved.

Filed Under: New Car Reviews Tagged With: 2018 SUVs, BLACK LABEL, CONCIERGE SERVICES, EcoBoost, Ford Expedition, four-wheel drive, LINCOLN NAVIGATOR, rear-wheel drive, SUV, SYNC

At a Glance: 2019 Ford Edge ST

January 25, 2018 by admin 9 Comments

Ford Performance serves up an Edge ST model.

2019 Ford Edge ST
2019 Ford Edge ST.

Ford Performance has done it again. This time, Ford’s performance division sets its eyes on the company’s midsize, two-row SUV, the Ford Edge. As they’ve done with more than a dozen models in recent years, the engineers and designers transformed a not-so-ordinary model into something extraordinary — the 2019 Ford Edge ST.

Highlights of the 2019 Ford Edge ST

What’s so special about the 2019 Ford Edge ST? A number of things, including the following:

1. Turbocharged V6 engine. Ford has offered a turbocharged 2.7-liter V6 engine with the Edge since 2015. The Edge ST gets that same engine, but it is specially tuned to deliver 335 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque (up from 315 hp/350 lb.-ft.) Consider it an extra kick to get you moving and staying ahead of similar SUVs while on the road. All-wheel drive ensures that this burly SUV stays planted as you carve corners.

2019 Ford Edge ST2. Quick shifting transmission. You’ll find one transmission choice with the Edge ST: an 8-speed automatic. What we know about this unit is that it is quick shifting. You can let it shift itself or move up and down the gear range by means of the steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

3. Sport-tuned suspension. All-wheel drive is, of course, only one part of the handling equation for the Edge ST. An enhanced suspension system with improved handling and braking are other factors. You’ll also find a sport mode, allowing for more aggressive throttle response and shifting patterns. Here, gears are held near redline while performing cornering maneuvering, along with sharper engine braking and a more vibrant exhaust note.

4. New and unique styling. The 2019 Edge is a refresh, but the Edge ST has its own design cues, including a wide mesh grille to optimize cooling, deep side skirts and dual-exhaust outlets. It also has available 21-inch wheels unique to this model. Inside, you’ll find a unique design cues on the steering wheel, seat back and scuff plates. Ford Performance left little doubt that this model is special.

5. Expanded driver-assist features. If you’re looking for driver-assist features with the Edge ST (or any Edge model for that matter), you won’t be disappointed. Standard equipment includes forward collision warning with dynamic brake support, pre-collision assist with pedestrian detection; blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, lane keeping alert and assist, automatic high beams and hill start assist. Also available are adaptive cruise control with full stop and resume, lane centering, evasive steering assist and post-collision braking.

2019 Ford Edge ST

6. Cutting-edge technologies. As expected, you’ll find a long list of technologies with the Edge ST, including FordPass Connect tied in with the SYNC telematics system. Available for five years from the time of purchase, the system supplies smartphone-controlled connectivity, including vehicle status, lock and unlock doors, remote start and vehicle locator. Bundled with this is a Wi-Fi hotspot for connecting upwards of 10 devices. Other available features include a wireless charging station, a premium 12-speaker audio system and an 8-inch touchscreen.

Ford Performance Models

The 2019 Ford Edge ST extends Ford Performance’s influence to its first SUV. That makes sense, given the popularity of utility vehicles. It puts the Edge up against some of the higher performing Jeep Grand Cherokee models, with room to go higher. Imagine a Ford that takes on the likes of the Grand Cherokee Trailhawk.

As for pricing, that information should roll out closer to the 2019 Edge’s release this summer. In the meantime, there are plenty of 2018s to consider as well as the current stock of Ford Performance models.

2019 Ford Edge ST


See Also — Ford Performance: 12 New Vehicles Due Through 2020

Photos copyright the Ford Motor Company. All rights reserved.

Filed Under: Auto Shows, New Models Tagged With: 2019 SUV, all-wheel drive, Ford Edge ST, Ford Pass, FORD PERFORMANCE, NAIAS2018, SUV, SYNC, turbo

About the 2015 Lincoln Navigator

September 11, 2014 by admin 3 Comments

Now that the Ford Motor Company has turned its attention to Lincoln, new and updated products are debuting with more on the way. In 2013, the latest generation MKZ sedan made its appearance. This summer, the all-new MKC crossover utility vehicle rolled out. And this fall we have the latest iteration of the Lincoln Navigator, a full-bodied, traditional sport utility vehicle that is itself new.

2015 Lincoln Navigator

Perhaps the most significant change for the Lincoln Navigator is that it no longer offers a V-8 engine. A 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 is the sole power choice, a 380-horsepower beast with an output of 460 foot-pounds of twist. The engine is a familiar one with its dual overhead camshaft and twin variable independent variable camshaft timing, promoted as “EcoBoost” technology by the Ford Motor Company. The direct injection engine is paired with a select shift six-speed automatic transmission.

Despite its smaller footprint, the new Lincoln Navigator engine is more powerful than the 5.4-liter V-8 engine it replaces (310 horsepower, 365 foot-pounds of torque). It is also more efficient as fuel economy rises from 14 to 16 mpg city and from 20 mpg to 22 mpg highway, for best in class fuel efficiency.

The 2015 Navigator’s dimensions are nearly identical with the new vehicle as it sits on a 119-inch wheelbase and measures 207.4 inches long by 78.8 inches wide and 78.1 inches tall. It comes with 8.4 inches of ground clearance and a front track measuring 67 inches and a rear track measuring 67.2 inches.

Extended Wheelbase Edition

As before, an extended wheelbase Navigator L model returns, what adds a foot between the wheels and 15 inches overall. Both models offer three rows of seating with the biggest gains coming in third row shoulder room and cargo space. All models seat eight.

The 2015 Lincoln Navigator is priced from $62,745, including destination and delivery charges. The most noticeable exterior change is the split-wing grille, an adaptation of the brand’s current design language. That face is flanked by high-definition headlamps and jewel-like daytime running lights.

Standard 20-inch ultra-bright machined aluminum wheels give way to 22-inch wheels with the Reserve package. The package also brings in stainless steel or Tuxedo Black running boards.

Lincoln says that the 2015 Navigator is its best handling one yet. The electric-power assisted steering adjusts vehicle speed to provide improved control. An available Lincoln Drive Control option brings in continuously controlled damping, what adjusts the suspension system automatically. You can also choose from three driving modes: normal, comfort and sport.

Nivomat Load-Leveling System

Choose the 44 package and your Navigator is outfitted with hill descent control and hill start assist. The Select package brings in a load-leveling system called “Nivomat,” what raises the rear end of the SUV for improved handling. Lincoln says the system also improves aerodynamics while reducing tire wear.

Inside, the interior has been redone and features a Wollsdorf leather-wrapped, wood-trimmed steering wheel with a better grip. Choose the Reserve package and the cabin receives upgraded leather seating across all three rows, a hand-wrapped leather instrument panel and premium Ziricote wood trim — found in many yachts.

Speaking of maritime pursuits, this SUV can pull up to 9,000 pounds when properly equipped. Its standard 42 system can be upgraded to 44, the latter offering a near-perfect 50-50 weight distribution.

Infotainment and Safety Systems

Other Lincoln Navigator features include: Illuminated welcome mats, a passive entry system, keyless engine ignition and SYNC with MyLincoln Touch. Lincoln’s infotainment system permits the driver to use voice-activated or touch screen controls to make phone calls, play music, manage the navigation system or set cabin temperature. The system includes an 8-inch touch screen in the center stack and a 4.2-inch LCD screen in the instrument cluster. You will also find traditional knob controls to bypass the screen.

Several safety features are standard with the new Navigator, including a Blind Spot Information System. BLIS automatically signals when another vehicle is detected in an adjacent lane behind either rear wheel. A rearview camera is also standard as are six airbags, roll stability control and a post-crash alert system that automatically calls for help following an accident when you are not able to do so.

The Competition

“The new Lincoln Navigator has more of what our customers want delivering both power and beauty,” said Elaine Bannon, chief engineer. “It’s got the new Lincoln design DNA on the exterior, a redesigned instrument panel and a new Reserve option with 22-inch wheels along with the 3.5L EcoBoost engine. Once we were able to include all of those elements, I knew we had a vehicle people will love.”

Those attributes keep Lincoln competitive in a segment with only a handful of large-scale luxury SUVs available. You can name the Cadillac Escalade, Mercedes-Benz GL Class, Lexus LX, Infiniti QX80 and the Range Rover Land Rover among the Navigator’s top competing models.

Photos courtesy of the Lincoln Motor Company.

See Also — Chicago Auto Show Debut: 2015 Lincoln Navigator

Filed Under: Special Tagged With: 2015 MODELS, 4x4, EcoBoost, LINCOLN DRIVE CONTROL, LINCOLN NAVIGATOR, NIVOMAT, sport utility vehicle, SUV, SYNC

American Luxury Sedan: 2014 Lincoln MKZ

July 22, 2014 by admin 7 Comments

The Ford Motor Company has turned its attention to reviving Lincoln, once a leading luxury brand. In the past decade Lincoln has been overtaken by three German makes, three Japanese makes as well as Cadillac, its domestic competitor.

2014 Lincoln MKZ

2014 Lincoln MKZ

Two new models — the MKZ and MKC crossover — are among a group of new or updated products Ford has promised for Lincoln, vehicles that should help begin to turn the tide for the flagging brand. A 2014 Lincoln MKZ AWD edition was a recent weekly driver, an all-new second generation midsize sedan model.

The Lincoln MKZ made its debut in 2007 replacing the Zephyr name rolled out the year before. The name change was made to align the sedan with the brand’s new three-letter naming convention with all vehicles, except the Navigator, starting with an MK followed by a unique third letter. Initially, Lincoln referred to these models as “Mark” Z or “Mark” X, but customers and analysts simply say “em-kay” followed by the letter. Yes, Lincoln’s nomenclature is one of the least understood, one that this writer would love to see scrapped.

Naming convention aside, the Lincoln MKZ is a five-passenger front- or all-wheel drive midsize sedan. Audi and Acura take the same front/all-wheel drive approach while the other German makes, Lexus, Infiniti and Cadillac offer standard rear-wheel drive with all-wheel drive optional. Allow me to cut to the chase here: if you prefer superior handling, all-wheel drive is the way to go.

As before, the Lincoln MKZ shares its platform and most of its mechanical underpinnings with the Ford Fusion. The current MKZ has unique sheet metal and enough exterior differences to present a distinctly different model. Indeed, when I presented the MKZ to several friends, not one knew about the Ford Fusion similarity. After that, I figured that it was a point not mentioning — the MKZ’s designers did an admirable job of working with what they had to dress the Lincoln for success.

2014 Lincoln MKZ

Standard Turbo, Available V-6

Lincoln offers MKZ shoppers two engine options. Only the base engine, a 2.0-liter direct injection, turbocharged four cylinder can be found in the Ford Fusion. The base engine makes 240 horsepower and 270 foot-pounds of torque. The available 3.7-liter normally aspirated V-6 is rated at 300 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 277 foot-pounds of torque. Both engines are paired with a six-speed select shift automatic transmission and paddle shifters.

The 2014 Lincoln MKZ is priced from $34,190 and offers standard front-wheel drive and the base engine. For $36,080 you get all-wheel drive. The base V-6 retails from $35,420 or $37,310 when outfitted with all-wheel drive. Also available is a Lincoln MKZ hybrid, priced from $35,190.

Like some of its competitors — Infiniti comes to mind — the Lincoln MKZ is sold in one trim level. The base models are outfitted with a Premiere equipment group that also includes an 11-speaker sound system, continuously controlled damping suspension, electric-power assisted steering and active noise control.

Packages and Upgrades

The other three packages are: Select ($1,145), Reserve ($3,195) and Preferred ($5,375). The first package brings in a rear view camera, rear parking sensors and an HD radio. The second package features a voice recognition navigation system, a blind spot information system with cross-traffic alert and a power deck lid. The third package brings in 19-inch polished aluminum wheels, a heated steering wheel and heated rear seats and an excellent THX II premium audio system.

Beyond the packages there are additional upgrades you can select, including a single panel moonroof ($1,200) or a retractable panoramic roof ($2,995), the latter unique to this model and like nothing else you have seen before (more about that later). A technology package ($2,250) brings in multiple safety features including adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist as well as active park assist.

As for the test model at hand, the top packages plus smoke quartz tricoat paint ($495), multi contour seats ($595) and inflatable rear seat belts ($195) were added. Some $13,135 in options pushed the final price of this weekly driver to $52,110.


2014 Lincoln MKZ AWD

View manufacturer details and pricing


Exterior Embellishments

Of the sedan’s design language, Lincoln calls it “subtly distinctive” perhaps to send a message that the look is not radical, but has certain stand out features of note.

One of those features is the stylish split wing grill that defines the front fascia. It represents Lincoln’s current design language, offering a more elegant and contemporary persona than the previous layout. Other enhancements include: A steeply-raked windshield, profile characteristics and a taillight arrangement that spans the entire length of the rear deck.

Interior Amenities

Slip in behind the wheel and the Lincoln’s high-tech design is immediately evident. You may wonder where the transmission shifter is as it isn’t attached to the steering column nor is it found on the center console. Instead, Lincoln provides a five push button vertical control panel to the left of the center stack’s screen, an arrangement that frees up room where it is most needed.

Lincoln wraps the seats and steering wheel in leather with genuine wood trim found across the instrument panel, around the cluster and on the interior of the doors. The instrument cluster features a brightly lit and easy to change message center. Other interior amenities include: dual zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, power heated side mirrors and 10-way power operated front seats.

Perhaps the main challenge for a Lincoln MKZ owner is getting used to the center stack. Not only does it feature transmission and navigation controls, but it also dispenses with the traditional switches and knobs for climate control and the audio system. Instead, a pair of horizontal bars control temperature and sound, simply by running a finger to the right to increase air circulation or sound, or back to left to decrease the same. It is a simple to use arrangement, but it does take getting used to.

The Lincoln MKZ offers comfortable, supportive and cushy seats up front and a very good bench seat to the rear. Three can ride in the back fairly comfortably, but room for two is the ideal. Fold down the center compartment for your drinks and arm rest or make use of the pass through to bring with you your gear, such as your skis.

The single most outstanding feature of the 2014 Lincoln MKZ is a $2,995 option worth considering. And that option is a panoramic, retractable roof that transforms rather ordinary premium sedan into an extraordinary and handsome motorcar. The unique roof is fetching in its closed position alone. When open, it offers convertible-like access to the great outdoors as its 15.2-square-foot panel slides partially own the rear window.

There is nothing else like it on the market, what gives this sedan an open air feel that no moonroof offers without the hassle of a drop down roof. I had it open only twice, but it was an enjoyable experience that makes all the difference for this car.

The Drive

I would have been disappointed had Lincoln offered a weak engine with this sedan. Happily, the base two-liter four is robust and the V-6 rivals the performance of motors found in competing models. With 300 horses at work, it was always more than enough power to deliver. The trade-off here is gas mileage, coming in at a combined 21 mpg. If excellent fuel mileage is important to you, then the MKZ hybrid delivering 37 mpg with its combined 188 horsepower might be worth a look. That model carries a $1,000 price premium over the base edition.

Electric-powered steering, continuously controlled damping (CCD) and all-wheel drive combine to deliver good steering and handling. The CCD system automatically adjusts the shocks as road conditions warrant to ensure a smooth ride and improved handling. Lincoln provides three driving modes: normal, comfort and sport to provide the desired measure of control you want.

Model Considerations

The 2014 Lincoln MKZ is a step in the right direction, offering many of the luxury touches that buyers want and expect in this class. While some of its competitors such as the BMW 3-Series and Cadillac ATS provide better handling and a more robust driving experience, this Lincoln matches up quite well in the technology and interior comfort departments. The on-dash transmission shifter, the THX II audio system and the state-of-the-art reclining roof are among the special features that help this luxury sedan get noticed.

2014 Lincoln MKZ AWD

  • Sticker price from $38,080
  • Price as tested: $52,110
  • Seats 5 occupants
  • 3.7-liter 24-valve V-6 engine
  • 300 horsepower @ 6,500 rpm
  • 277 foot-pounds of torque @ 4,000 rpm
  • 3.70 inches bore by 3.40 inches stroke
  • Engine compression ratio: 10:5-to-1
  • Six-speed automatic transmission
  • Wheelbase: 112.2 inches
  • Length: 194.1 inches
  • Width: 73.4 inches
  • Height: 58.2 inches
  • Passenger volume: 96.4 cubic feet
  • Storage volume: 15.4 cubic feet
  • Towing capacity: 1,000 pounds
  • EPA: 18 mpg city, 26 mpg highway
  • Regular grade gasoline
  • Fuel tank: 17.5 gallons
  • Curb weight: From 3,849 pounds
  • IIHS safety rating: Top Safety Pick+
  • Limited vehicle warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles
  • Powertrain warranty: 6 years/70,000 miles
  • Corrosion warranty: 5 years/Unlimited miles
  • Vehicle assembly: Hermosillo, Mexico

More Car Reviews

Driven: 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport 2.0T (FWD)

Performance Luxury Sedan: 2014 Lexus IS

Bargain Hatch: 2014 Nissan Versa Note SV

Peak This: 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit


2014 Lincoln MKZ AWD photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. All rights reserved.

Filed Under: New Car Reviews Tagged With: 2014 MODELS, Ford Fusion, LINCOLN MKZ, luxury, Midsize Sedan, RETRACTABLE ROOF, SYNC, THX, turbo, V6 engine

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