UTILITY VEHICLES

Lincoln Axes the Continental

July 2, 2020 by admin 2 Comments

Ford’s luxury brand goes all-in on utility vehicles.

The last Lincoln sedan goes away this December.

The Lincoln Continental is one of the most storied models for Ford’s luxury marque, a big sedan with outsized styling, generous amenities, and class-leading comfort. In 2016, Lincoln resurrected the Continental to critical acclaim. Alas, its revival came as consumers eschewed sedans for utility vehicles, effectively ensuring that the latest Continental would serve only the smallest audience.

Production Ends in December

North American consumers will not see a Continental for the 2021 model year as Lincoln announced on Wednesday that production would cease by end of the year. Those models built this fall will be allocated exclusively for China where large sedans have a stronger following. Nevertheless, Ford’s Flat Rock, Michigan, assembly plant will finish producing Continentals in December.

Lincoln revived the Continental nameplate by unveiling a concept with center-hinged doors at the 2015 New York International Auto Show. Just over a year later, the all-new Continental rolled out for the 2017 model year. It replaced the previous and comparatively anonymous MKS, sitting on a stretched and modified version of the platform underpinning the Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ.

An Outlier Among Luxury Sedans

With standard front-wheel drive and available all-wheel drive, the current Continental competed in a segment dominated by rear-wheel-drive models. That said, customers could upgrade from the standard front-wheel-drive model with a naturally aspirated V6 engine and go with one of two turbocharged V6 engines with all-wheel drive.

We reviewed a Black Label model in 2017 outfitted with the larger of the two turbo engines and lauded its performance. Although we couldn’t call it a “Hot-Rod Lincoln,” its performance credentials were certainly noteworthy.

Sedans Give Way to SUVs

With the Continental following the MKZ to the defunct model playground, Lincoln will rely on its quartet of utility vehicles to advance the brand. These models are the full-size and traditional SUV Lincoln Navigator, a pair of midsize models – the three-row Aviator and two-row Nautilus, and the compact Corsair. We may yet see additional models although the planned all-electric SUV built with upstart Rivian will not happen.

Lincoln may point to the decline of sedans as a good reason to cancel the Continental, but its competitors aren’t giving up on them. Indeed Cadillac, its arch-rival domestic competitor, currently offers a trio of sedans although the largest of three, the CT6, is slated for cancellation. The CT6 is a near competitor to the Continental and rides on a rear-wheel-drive platform as do the smaller XT4 and XT5 models.

Hyundai’s Genesis luxury brand has effectively demonstrated that building quality sedans still finds a ready audience. It, too, has a trio of sedans for the offing (we’re currently reviewing the G70) and will soon at its first SUV this fall. Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Audi are also deeply invested in sedans even as demand for SUVs soars.

Ultimately, it comes down to investing priorities – Ford has cast its lot exclusively with SUVs, following the pattern that has made Land Rover the respected brand that it is.

4 Lincoln Utility Vehicles: Corsair, Nautilus, Aviator & Navigator

February 12, 2020 by admin 3 Comments

2018 Lincoln Navigator Black Label
Lincoln interiors reach a special level in Black Label garb.

Lincoln lost its footing as the best-selling luxury brand more than 20 years ago. These days, it ranks around eighth or ninth in a highly competitive environment. You can blame Lincoln’s inability to keep up with the changing market for one reason. Ford’s luxury marque has also failed to deliver the models customers want, but that’s changing.

Like most other brands, Lincoln is emphasizing utility vehicles over sedans, and that’s helping sales. But it isn’t just having SUVs in the company’s portfolio that has helped: Lincoln has carefully overhauled its offerings to deliver more modern and elegant vehicles or what customers are demanding. As a result, Lincoln’s demand is on the way up as customers consider their choices.

For 2020, Lincoln offers four utility vehicles: the full-size Navigator, the three-row midsize Aviator, the two-row midsize Nautilus, and the compact Corsair. Gone is the brand’s confusing naming convention in exchange for nautical/aviation terminology. Also excised from the lineup is the company’s wagon-like crossover, the MKT, which offered a point of differentiation, but never sold in big numbers.

We’re not presenting reviews of Lincoln’s quartet of utility vehicles here. Instead, we’re charting the changes and looking at the highlights of each. We’ll also mention each model’s competitive set, to make it easier to compare like models.

Lincoln Navigator

Lincoln’s large Navigator is the granddaddy of this brand’s SUVs. It’s been credited with launching the segment of big American luxury SUVs, although its archrival, the Cadillac Escalade, easily outsells it.

The current-generation Navigator rolled out in 2018 and has seen light updates since. For 2020 you’ll find new color choices and combinations, additional standard equipment, and now standard Lincoln360 driver-assist technology.

Every 2020 Navigator comes with a twin-turbocharged V6 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. It’s available in rear-and four-wheel-drive configurations, and comes in standard and stretched wheelbase layouts.

Besides the Cadillac Escalade, the Lincoln Navigator competes with the BMW X7, Infiniti QX80, Lexus LX, Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class, the Audi Q7, and others.

Lincoln Aviator

New for 2020, the Lincoln Aviator replaces the previous MKT. Like the Ford Explorer, the Aviator offers standard rear-wheel drive and available all-wheel drive. The previous model featured a front-wheel-drive platform. This move brings the Aviator in line with many of its competitors.

Since it is all-new from the ground up, the 2020 Aviator offers little connection to the previous model. Indeed, the departure is so strong that the Aviator seems like a scaled-down Navigator and that’s a good thing.

All models come with a twin-turbocharged V6 engine. The two top trims are plug-in hybrids, therefore they get an extra boost of power and all-electric range. It makes for an unusual combination and there is also a price premium to pay.

Among the Aviator’s chief competitors are the Cadillac XT6, Volvo XC90, Acura MDX, Infiniti QX60, and the upcoming Genesis GV80.

Lincoln Nautilus

Previously called the MKX, the Nautilus name took over in 2019 as the line was updated. For 2020, the Select trim has been dropped. The rest of the updates include minor shuffling between trims.

Like the other three Lincoln models, this one has a Ford counterpart, the Edge. There are some important design and engine differences to help set this model apart. For instance, the standard engine is a turbocharged four-cylinder that’s available with front- or all-wheel drive. There is also a twin-turbo V6 that’s paired with all-wheel drive. Like other Lincoln models, a 10-speed automatic transmission routes power to the wheels.

The Nautilus faces stiff competition, including the Cadillac XT5, Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class, Lexus RX, Audi Q5, BMW X5, Infiniti QX50, and the Acura RDX.

Lincoln Corsair

The Corsair is one of two all-new models for Lincoln. Notably, all four Lincoln SUVs have been replaced or updated since 2018. That gives Lincoln one of the freshest SUV segments in the market.

As the replacement for the MKC, the Corsair comes with a pair of turbocharged four-cylinder engine choices. The Corsair is related to the Ford Escape, but it has much unique design, technology, and powertrain differences.
Competition in this segment is fierce with each manufacturer offering at least one model.

Compare the Corsair to the Cadillac XT4, Infiniti QX30, Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class, Lexus NX, BMW X3, Audi Q3, Volvo XC40, and a host of other small, luxury models.

2020 Lincoln Navigator Specifications

Lincoln	2020 Navigator
Segment	Full-size luxury SUV
Price Range	$75,825 to $96,770
Destination Charge	$1,295
Standard Engine	3.5-liter, turbo V6
Horsepower	450 @ 5,500
Torque (lb.-ft.)	510 @ 3,000
Transmission	10-speed automatic
Seating	8
Curb Weight (pounds)	5,685 to 6,056
Wheelbase (inches)	122.5, 131.6
Length (inches)	210.0, 221.9
Width (inches)	93.8
Height (inches)	76.4, 76.3; 76.2, 76.1(L)
Headroom (f,r…inches)	41.8, 40.0, 37.3; 39.5, 37.9, 37.4 (L)
Legroom (f,r…inches)	43.9, 41.1, 42.3
Shoulder room (f,r…inches)	65.2, 65.1, 64.2
Hip room (f,r…inches)	61.9, 61.6, 51.4
Storage (cubic feet)	19.3, 57.5, 103.3 ; 34.3, 73.3, 120.2 (L)
Gross vehicle weight (pounds)	NR
Towing (pounds)	8,100 to 8,700
Payload (pounds)	NR
Fuel	Regular
Fuel Tank (gallons)	23
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway/combined)	16/23/19 (4×2); 16/21/18 (4×4)
Manufacturing Plant	Louisville, Kentucky

Data compiled by Tom Keegan. Specifications supplied by the manufacturer.

See Also — About the 2015 Lincoln Navigator

2020 Lincoln Aviator Specifications

Lincoln	2020 Aviator
Segment	Midsize crossover
Price Range	$51,100 to $77,695
Destination Charge	$1,095
Engine No. 1	3.0-liter, turbocharged V6
Horsepower	400 @ 5,000 rpm
Torque (lb.-ft.)	415 @ 3,000 rpm
Transmission	10-speed automatic
Engine No.2	3.0-liter, V6
Horsepower	494 @ 5,500 rpm
Torque (lb.-ft.)	630 @ 2,250 rpm
Transmission	10-speed automatic
Seating	6 or 7
Curb Weight (pounds)	4,774 to 5,673
Wheelbase (inches)	119.1
Length (inches)	199.3
Width (inches)	79.6
Height (inches)	69.6
Headroom (f,r…inches)	41.5, 39.7, 36.9
Legroom (f,r…inches)	43.0, 40.1, 29.2
Shoulder room (f,r…inches)	61.5, 61.3, 54.0
Hip room (f,r…inches)	58.5, 58.3, 40.9
Storage (cubic feet)	18.3, 41.8, 77.7
Gross vehicle weight (pounds)	NR
Towing (pounds)	5,600 to 6,700
Payload (pounds)	NR
Fuel	Regular
Fuel Tank (gallons)	20.2; 18(Grand Touring)
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway/combined)	18/26/21 (RWD); 17/24/20 (AWD)
Manufacturing Plant	Chicago, Illinois

Data compiled by Tom Keegan. Specifications supplied by the manufacturer.

See Also — About the 2020 Lincoln Aviator

2020 Lincoln Nautilus Specifications

Lincoln	2020 Nautilus
Segment	Midsize SUV
Price Range	From $42,000
Destination Charge	$995
Engine No. 1	2.0-liter, turbo I4
Horsepower	250 @ 5,500 rpm
Torque (lb.-ft.)	280 @ 3,000 rpm
Transmission	8-speed automatic
Engine No. 2	2.7-liter, turbo V6
Horsepower	335 @ 5,500
Torque (lb.-ft.)	380 @ 3,250 rpm
Transmission	8-speed automatic
Seating	5
Curb Weight (pounds)	4,142 to 4,305
Wheelbase (inches)	112.2
Length (inches)	190.0
Width (inches)	78.7
Height (inches)	66.2
Headroom (f,r…inches)	39.9, 39.2
Legroom (f,r…inches)	42.8, 39.6
Shoulder room (f,r…inches)	58.9, 59.0
Hip room (f,r…inches)	56.4, 55.6
Storage (cubic feet)	37.2, 68.8
Gross vehicle weight (pounds)	NR
Towing (pounds)	3,500
Payload (pounds)	NR
Fuel	Regular
Fuel Tank (gallons)	18
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway/combined)	21/26/23 (2.0L) 19/26/21 (2.7L)
Manufacturing Plant

Data compiled by Tom Keegan. Specifications supplied by the manufacturer.

2020 Lincoln Corsair Specifications

Lincoln	2020 Corsair
Segment	Compact SUV
Price Range	$35,945 to $42,630
Destination Charge	$995
Engine No. 1	2.0-liter, turbo I4
Horsepower	245 @ 5,500 rpm
Torque (lb.-ft.)	275 @ 3,000 rpm
Transmission	8-speed automatic
Engine No. 2	2.3-liter, turbo I4
Horsepower	285 @ 5,500
Torque (lb.-ft.)	305 @ 2,750 rpm
Transmission	8-speed automatic
Seating	5
Curb Weight (pounds)	3,702 to 3,848
Wheelbase (inches)	106.7
Length (inches)	180.6
Width (inches)	76.2
Height (inches)	64.1
Headroom (f,r…inches)	39.5, 38.7
Legroom (f,r…inches)	43.2, 38.6
Shoulder room (f,r…inches)	57.1, 56.3
Hip room (f,r…inches)	55.6, 50.8
Storage (cubic feet)	27.6, 57.6
Gross vehicle weight (pounds)	NR
Towing (pounds)	3,000
Payload (pounds)	NR
Fuel	Regular
Fuel Tank (gallons)	16.2
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway/combined)	22/29/25(FWD); 21/28/24(AWD)
Manufacturing Plant	Louisville, Kentucky

Data compiled by Tom Keegan. Specifications supplied by the manufacturer.

Photos copyright Lincoln Motor Company.

Highlights of the 2021 GMC Yukon/Yukon XL

January 15, 2020 by admin 1 Comment

GMC took the wraps off of its next-generation full-size pickup trucks this month, introducing all-new 2021 Yukon and Yukon XL models. These flagship SUVs represent standard and stretched wheelbase versions of its largest utility vehicles and feature many changes, including an upgraded Denali line. The new models will be built in Texas and go on sale this summer.

Here are the highlights of GMC’s dynamic SUV duo:

1. Bigger than before. GMC’s big SUVs get even bigger for 2021. Both models enjoy at least a four-inch extension in their respective wheelbases and are up to half-foot longer than before. Cargo space in the Yukon is up at least 10 percent along with big gains in third-row legroom.

2. Three engine choices. GMC’s familiar gas engines return, although both are updated. This year, the two engines once again feature Dynamic Fuel Management, enabling the big SUVs to operate on as few as two cylinders. The third engine is a 3.0-liter turbocharged diesel V6, which is currently utilized in other GMC models. All three engines work with a 10-speed automatic transmission with push-button control.

3. Air suspension and a limited-slip differential. The 2021 Yukons will offer a new air suspension system as well as four-wheel drive with an electronic limited-slip differential. The differential continuously monitors road conditions and reacts by improving traction, handling, and control.

4. New AT4 line. Just as Denali has taken hold as a GMC sub-brand, the AT4 line is doing likewise. For 2021, the Yukon gets the AT4, one that includes several significant features. These include a two-speed transfer case, 20-inch all-terrain tires, hill descent control, a traction select system with off-road mode, skid plates, special AT4 leather-trimmed seats, a unique black interior, a heated steering wheel, heated and ventilated front seats, and heated outboard second-row seats.

5. Upgraded Denali trim. The Denali sub-brand brings a premium look and features to the Yukon line. In service since 1999, Denali is available across the GMC model line, but remains a favorite with the Yukon. Indeed, GMC says some 60 percent of Yukon models are Denalis. This year, the Denali has gained a bolder exterior and an all-new and exquisite interior. The cabin features a new instrument panel, unique seats, and four interior color choices. A larger chrome grille, upgraded exterior lighting, and a special lighting design amplify the outside. Other standout features include the latest magnetic control system, a 15-inch head-up display, rear pedestrian alert, and a high-definition surround-view camera.

6. Robust technologies. We already mentioned the available head-up display. Other improvements include a standard 10-inch diagonal center stack or an available 12.6-inch display. GMC also says that the Yukons’ processing power is five times as robust as before, allowing for future upgrades, including Super Cruise. Super Cruise is a semi-autonomous driving feature currently offered on Cadillac models and may eventually come to GMC.

7. Expanded technologies. Staying with the technology theme, the new Yukons will also benefit from a “broader availability of active safety features.” For instance, automatic emergency braking becomes standard across the Yukon line. The previously mentioned safety features including the HD surround vision camera, rear pedestrian alert, and a rear camera mirror are also noteworthy.

8. Improved trailering features. New trailering features designed to help improve hitching and imbue driving confidence when towing a trailer roll out. These include trailer profiles, trailer tire, pressure/temperature monitoring. and trailer side blind zone alert.

Looking Ahead

The one unknown about the 2021 Yukon has to do with price. Currently, a base Yukon model costs about $50,000, while the XL starts around $53,000. The top-trim models cost about $20,000 more, but with various package selections and individual upgrades, the cost can easily top $80,000. We think the high-end will now approach $90,000, but that’s still far less than the Cadillac Escalade, which can easily top six figures.

In all, the GMC duo will do what is expected, enabling GM to continue to dominate the segment. Indeed, about two-thirds of all large SUV sales are under a GM brand, with Chevrolet, GMC, and Cadillac easily outselling Ford and Lincoln, its closest competitors.

Photos and news details courtesy of GMC.

Are Cars Doomed? Not So Fast!

July 28, 2017 by admin 1 Comment

Consumer sentiment for high-profile vehicles continues.

2015 Hyundai Azera — This large Hyundai Azera sedan won’t see the 2018 model year.

A quick scan of the automotive landscape, especially in the United States, reveals that consumers are snapping up SUVs and pickup trucks to the detriment of coupes, sedans, and wagons. Some brands, such as Buick, are selling as many as three SUVs to one car, underscoring the wholesale shift away from traditional transportation choices.

Some analysts see a permanent shift away from cars to high-profile vehicles and are essentially calling the segment dead. Indeed, just this past week we’ve heard rumors that GM may cancel two large sedans — the Chevrolet Impala and Cadillac XTS, with even a few smaller models such as the Chevrolet Sonic possibly on the chopping block. Also, it is unlikely we’ll see a new Ford Taurus and similar rumors that next-generation Fiesta won’t arrive stateside continues. Further, Fiat Chrysler has already canceled the midsize Chrysler 200 and compact Dodge Dart sedans, while Hyundai has similar plans for the large Azera sedan.

2017 GMC Canyon Denali — Small pickup trucks such as this
GMC Canyon are fueling demand.

Are cars doomed? Or are we seeing a temporary shift that may someday swing back or at least strike a balance between cars and utility vehicles/trucks? Here’s how I see things shaping up over the next several years:

1. Several car models will go away. It seems likely most of the previously mentioned models will, indeed, go away. Some have questioned the Taurus’ demise, given that it is used by police departments across the country. On closer inspection, other Ford models such as the Explorer are in greater demand, taking sales from the Taurus. Moreover, this past April, Ford announced it was bringing the Ford Police Responder Hybrid Sedan to the market, based on the Fusion Hybrid. It’ll be used mostly in urban settings, but it should fill the void once Taurus production ends.

2. A shrinking pie, with fewer players. Not every automaker is abandoning shrinking segments, at least not yet. The large sedan segment has seen the most significant pullback of any, with sales falling by more than one half over the past five years. Toyota is planning to bring the next generation of its large Avalon to the market next year, even as Hyundai, Chevrolet, and Ford abandon the market. This makes sense because the 2019 Avalon is based on the same platform underpinning the Toyota Camry and also shares its wheelbase with the Lexus ES Series. Avalon sales may be falling, but Toyota is poised to fill the void left with its own model. Livery owners everywhere rejoice!

Ford Fiesta ST — Rumors of the Ford Fiesta’s demise may be exaggerated.

3. Shrinking, but not dying. Not all car segments are going away. One reason large sedan sales are falling is because midsize sedans are taking up the slack. Today’s midsize models are nearly as large as the big sedans sold 15 years ago. They’re also better made, well equipped, and affordable. Doubtlessly, the D-segment pie will continue to shrink, but there is an opportunity for those who are patient. Indeed, both the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord are all new for 2018, while a refreshed Hyundai Sonata rolls out. Sales of such remaining models as the Ford Fusion, Nissan Altima, Chevrolet Malibu, and Kia Optima remain strong. It is doubtful the Subaru Legacy will go away, although models such as the Mazda 6 and Volkswagen Passat may not receive an update anytime soon.

2016 Honda HR-V — Small SUVs such as this Honda HR-V
are siphoning sales from cars.

4. Gas prices are a driving factor. Low fuel prices have people running away from fuel-efficient models. That said, today’s utility vehicles are more efficient than ever. Still, if gas prices begin to rise, consumers may suddenly shift demand to vehicles currently in low demand. No utility vehicle delivers anywhere near the 40 mpg of a Ford Fiesta or even a Toyota Camry. Prius sales may be down, but when gas prices top $4 per gallon in some places, demand could suddenly rise. Fuel demand worldwide has eased over the past few years, but war or some sort of environmental calamity (e.g. earthquake, oil spill, meteor impact) could quickly shift demand. Those automakers with the right mix of models in place will be the winners here.

5. Consumer tastes change and without reason. Who can figure out the mind of the consumer? Focus groups, surveys, and polls may capture consumer sentiment at the moment, but they aren’t always accurate and can never gauge whims. Cars carry a certain mystique SUVs cannot match and remain the favorite of enthusiasts and collectors alike. Not so with SUVs.

2015 Chrysler 300 — The fate of such models as this Chrysler 300 is unknown.

Tapping the Market

Cars are not doomed, but some models are on life support. Certainly, SUVs are more profitable, so manufacturers go where the money easily flows. Manufacturers who hedge their bets are able to quickly pivot, especially when consumer sentiment changes — sometimes on a whim.

Auto Trends: Cadillac XT5 (SRX)

November 5, 2014 by admin 1 Comment

You heard that Cadillac’s naming convention is set to change again, right? Well, it will and the first model to sport the new nomenclature will be the 2016 Cadillac CT6, a large ultra-luxury sedan due out in late 2015.

Cadillac’s naming convention will begin with a CT for cars and XT for crossovers followed by a single digit. Thus, the SRX will be renamed the XT5 when the next generation model goes on sale soon after the CT6 arrives.

At some point the Escalade name may go away, maybe not entirely.

2017 Cadillac XT5

The Cadillac XT5 has been spotted in the wild, wearing the typical camouflaging that covers much of the body, but does a good job of showing its form. You’ll have to head over to Carscoops to get a look at its profile picture as well as the other photos shared there.

The SRX replacement will be a clean sheet work, placed on a new platform that will underpin the Chevrolet Equinox, GMC’s Terrain and a new and currently unnamed Buick model. Regular and long-wheelbase versions of this standard front-wheel drive and available all-wheel drive platform will be sold.

Auto Trends believes that the Cadillac XT5 will be offered on the longer wheelbase and with all-wheel drive dominating the take rate. Likely, a pair of gasoline engines will be provided along with a turbo diesel in the mix, perhaps the same 2.8-liter diesel inline-four cylinder Duramax engine soon to power select Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon pickup trucks. GM is also hard at work building a nine-speed automatic transmission that should be ready in time for the XT5’s release.

Four Utility Vehicles

Cadillac ELR

Where does the ELR fit in Cadillac’s future?

Expect that by the end of the decade Cadillac will sell four utility vehicles. Below the XT5 would be the XT3, making its debut in China in late 2017 before hitting the US market the following spring. This front-wheel-drive model will only be slightly larger than the current Buick Encore and may be powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine according to Automotive News.

Soon after the XT3’s arrival, the first large crossover utility vehicle for Cadillac will debut. That model will not be based on the same platform underpinning the Chevrolet Traverse, GMC’s Acadia and the Buick Enclave, but will offer dimensions similar to its GM rivals. GM could go with the Traverse/Acadia/Enclave platform for the Cadillac XT7, but that would run contrary to its new mission to offer further separation between its luxury marque and the other brands.

Escalade Lives On…Sort Of

It seems likely that Cadillac will maintain some sort of traditional sport utility vehicle along the lines of its current Escalade. The Escalade, like the GMC Yukon and Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban, are based on GM’s truck platform. The next generation of those trucks should arrive in 2019, with the utility vehicles following in 2020. Given the model’s rich name, eliminating it completely seems unlikely. However, by calling it the XT9 Escalade, Cadillac could keep its new naming convention in place while paying tribute to one of the brand’s best-known model names.

With four utility vehicles in the Cadillac line up, the brand will be better positioned to compete in a market where customer interest in utility vehicles continues to grow. Hugely popular as well as highly profitable, such vehicles are pushed by Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Lexus with Acura, Lincoln, Infiniti, Volvo and others getting in the mix too.

As far as other models go, Cadillac will offer a convertible, one likely based on the ATS or possibly the CTS. That model should bow in the next 12 to 18 months. Some sort of sports car has been rumored too, but has not been confirmed. Most likely it won’t be an XLR-type variant of the Corvette Stingray and it may have to wait until the 2020s — or after Cadillac’s current new model rush has ended and its new nomenclature is well established.