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The all-new Lincoln MKZ makes its debut at the New York International Auto Show, marking a key milestone in Lincoln’s reinvention.

“The new Lincoln MKZ represents the future of Lincoln in both style and substance,” said Jim Farley, Group Vice President, Global Marketing, Sales and Service. “It is proof of our commitment to deliver a new breed of Lincolns for a new generation of Lincoln clients – motor cars that are distinctive, elegant, full of technology and a delight to own.”

The 2013 Lincoln MKZ enters the midsize luxury segment later this year.

It is the first Lincoln created by a dedicated team in its new Lincoln Design Studio

With a sweeping profile, MKZ incorporates one of the world’s widest-opening retractable glass roofs

Lincoln Drive Control is an intelligent system that delivers a refined ride and engaging driving dynamics. Standard Lincoln Drive Control intuitively integrates multiple systems (engine, transmission, body and chassis) to deliver totally new Lincoln driving quality

MKZ innovations include a distinct Push Button Shift gear selector that enables flowing and architectural center console design

A quiet, well-appointed interior is enhanced by standard Active Noise Control, genuine wood trim, full LCD instrumentation, heated front seats and SYNC® with MyLincoln Touch™

MKZ is offered with a choice of three powerful, efficient powertrains, including a next-generation hybrid expected to ensure the MKZ remains America’s most fuel-efficient premium sedan

Class-exclusive available inflatable rear safety belts supplement eight standard airbags

DRIVER TECH

Camera- and Radar-Based Driving Aids

The new Lincoln MKZ offers the Lane Keeping System, a suite of advanced driving aids that helps drivers avoid drifting from their lane due to distraction or fatigue. Consisting of Lane Keeping Aid, Lane Keeping Alert and Driver Assist, the Lane Keeping System utilizes a mono-vision camera integrated into the rearview mirror to read the lane markers ahead. For a more complete description of the Lane Keeping System, click here.

Available radar-based (ultrasonic) driving aids further enhance the driving experience. Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision Warning with Brake Support each use a long-range radar system that scans in front of the vehicle, automatically adjusting to traffic speed and providing a visual and audible alert when a potential front-end collision is detected.

Active park assist and Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with cross-traffic alert use multiple short-range wide-angle radar sensors. Each function provides a distinct benefit, ranging from making parallel parking easier to warning of oncoming vehicles while backing out of a parking space.

SYNC with MyLincoln Touch

SYNC with MyLincoln Touch is standard in the new MKZ. The combined system makes it easier to use the entertainment, climate and available navigation features as well as devices brought into the car (e.g., phones, PDA, MP3 players). Twin five-way controls on the steering wheel manage essential systems, and many functions can be voice-activated via SYNC.

Standard SYNC Services make turn-by-turn directions available via one button push and simple voice commands. Continually improving voice recognition software learns user voices, improving the efficiency of voice commands.

ENGINEERING

MKZ Dynamic Driving Technologies

The new MKZ offers Lincoln Drive Control as standard. Lincoln Drive Control is an automatic system that delivers an ideal balance of a smooth ride with confident handling as it intuitively responds to driver commands and the road, making the 2013 model the most refined and engaging MKZ ever.

Always on, Lincoln Drive Control orchestrates the performance of the Continuously Controlled Damping (CCD) adjustable suspension, electric power-assisted steering (EPAS), engine, transmission, Active Noise Control (ANC), traction control and stability control systems.

The result is an unsurpassed combination of refined ride and engaging driving dynamics. CCD offers three modes (Sport/Normal/Comfort) that are accessible using MyLincoln Touch. Selecting “Sport” on the Push Button Shift gear selector enables a decidedly more sporty driving experience.

CCD contributes to Lincoln Drive Control’s transparent action by monitoring the car’s suspension settings up to 500 times per second. The real-time system adjusts the suspension up to 50 times per second to deliver more controlled handling with a smoother ride. CCD augments a highly developed chassis that includes a refined strut front suspension and an all new integral link rear suspension.

The new MKZ is the only sedan in its class to include Continuously Controlled Damping and Active Noise Control as standard equipment.

MKZ Engines, Transmissions and Drive Systems

The 2013 Lincoln MKZ offers three distinct powertrains. The standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost® delivers the performance of a traditional V6 along with expected segment-leading fuel economy that is at least 3 mpg better than the closest competitor. This engine delivers a projected 20-percent increase in highway fuel economy versus the 2012 MKZ.

Emphasizing performance and efficiency, the optional 3.7-liter V6 produces significantly more power (37 horsepower and 28 lb.-ft. of torque) than the previous MKZ V6 while improving fuel economy approximately 5 percent.

Maximizing fuel efficiency, the optional 2.0-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain is expected to enable the 2013 MKZ Hybrid to remain North America’s most fuel-efficient premium sedan. The 2012 MKZ Hybrid is rated at 41 city mpg, 36 highway mpg.

Non-hybrid models utilize a six-speed automatic transmission. Standard paddle shifters mounted behind the steering wheel add to the performance driving experience of the MKZ.

Engine

Horsepower

Torque

Projected

Fuel Economy

2.0-liter I4 FWD/AWD

240 premium fuel

270 lb.-ft.

FWD: 22 mpg city
33 mpg highway

3.7-liter V6 FWD/AWD

300

277 lb.-ft.

AWD: 18 mpg city
26 mpg highway

2.0-liter I4/Electric
Hybrid FWD

188 (combined
engine and motor)

141 (engine only)

129 lb.-ft. (engine only)

FWD: Not yet
available

2.0- and 3.7-liter gasoline engines are equipped with six-speed automatic transmission;
2.0-liter Hybrid is equipped with a continuously variable transmission. Horsepower,
torque and fuel economy figures all are projected, not certified.

Improving grip on slippery roads, the available all-wheel-drive (AWD) system anticipates and adjusts the power delivery to the front and rear axles in as little as 16 milliseconds, faster than the blink of an eye.

OPEN-ROOF MOTORING

Retractable Panoramic Roof

The Retractable Panoramic Roof is a new signature feature for Lincoln. The 15.2-square-foot glass panel offers one of the largest openings available on any current sedan. The design maintains the structural strength of a steel-roof vehicle. Click here to view a video on the feature.

DESIGN

Nearly identical to the MKZ Concept shown at the North American International Auto Show in January, the production 2013 Lincoln MKZ embodies a design language that is subtly distinctive.

“We call it elegant simplicity,” said Max Wolff, Lincoln Design director. “We wanted the new MKZ to be inviting and approachable. We moved away from traditional luxury cues and complex designs. We came up with something warm that is rich, yet still intentionally restrained.”

MKZ Exterior

A sweeping roofline defines the new luxury sedan’s profile. The steeply raked windshield and lengthened backlight make for a sleeker and more flowing appearance that is 10 percent more aerodynamic than the model it replaces. “The MKZ shape is a vision completed with just a few strokes,” said Wolff. Click here for gallery.

Although strikingly modern, the design retains classic Lincoln design elements including a more refined interpretation of the split-wing grille, first seen on the 1938 Lincoln-Zephyr. Click here for image.

Rearview mirrors stand on door-mounted, sculpted pedestals. This fitment enables the front door glass to extend farther forward to improve visibility and to allow even more light into the interior.

The crafted headlamp assemblies include bright, energy-efficient LED lighting. The front headlights turn in sync with the steering wheel, providing enhanced visibility. At the rear, LED technology enabled a thin, distinctive full-width taillamp graphic.

MKZ Interior

Design teams created an inviting interior featuring bold architectural elements, rich natural materials and fine details. Click here for gallery.

“The exterior’s front graphic is repeated in the dramatic sweep of the new instrument panel, helping tie the interior to the exterior in a harmonious manner. These flowing forms – along with the open center console – create a comfortable and functional interior that particularly appeals to younger, more diverse drivers we believe will now consider Lincoln,” said Wolff.

Innovation and technology abound inside the new MKZ. Replacing the traditional mechanical transmission shift lever is a contemporary five-button interface. The individual buttons of Push Button Shift engage Park, Neutral, Reverse, and forward gears in two modes, Drive and Sport.

Push Button Shift gave designers freedom to create a sculptural multi-level center console with more functional storage areas.

Positioned ahead of the driver, the full-color 10.1-inch LCD instrument cluster operates with the latest version of SYNC with MyLincoln Touch. The all-new design combines dimensional indicator rings framing a brilliant and reconfigurable Thin Film Transistor (TFT) LCD. An equally critical component of MyLincoln Touch is the nearly flush-mounted center 8-inch LCD touch screen that displays information clearly in easy-to-reference color-keyed quadrants.

Premium-grade, supple leather covers all seating surfaces. Responsibly harvested wood and metal-toned surfaces create a luxurious and comfortable interior space.

Standard luxury amenities include an 11-speaker audiophile entertainment system and cabin air filtration, plus heated front seats (with the driver’s featuring 10-way power controls), remote start capabilities and Active Noise Control.

To make the MKZ exceptionally quiet, ANC electronically targets frequencies and reduces their intensity. To improve the refinement of the driving experience, other frequencies are subtly enhanced.

The available THX® II Certified Car Audio System is a Lincoln-exclusive that features 700 watts, 14 channels and 14 speakers. THX audio engineers spent more than 200 hours custom tuning the THX-certified equipment to the new MKZ’s interior. The result delivers home-theater surround sound to the road.

The new MKZ is the only sedan in its class to offer inflatable second-row outboard seat belts. Rear-seat passengers – often children or mature passengers – can be more vulnerable to head, chest and neck injuries. The available inflatable second-row, outboard seat belts spread impact forces across more than five times the area of conventional belts, reducing pressure on the chest while helping to control head and neck motion and helping reduce the risk of injuries.

Lincoln’s new MKZ Hybrid – the most fuel-efficient luxury car in America – will be a standout in the marketplace for another unique distinction when it goes on sale this fall: It will be priced the same as its conventional gas sibling.

“Lincoln is about delivering luxury standard,” said John Felice, general manager, Ford and Lincoln Marketing. “Whether it’s our new MKX with standard MyLincoln Touch technology or the no-cost choice of a gas or hybrid powertrain with the Lincoln MKZ, we want to give customers premium amenities with unexpected value.”

When the 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid goes on sale this fall, it will have an MSRP starting at $35,180, including destination and delivery. The pricing is identical to the 2011 Lincoln MKZ gas model and below the 2010 Lexus HS 250h, the MKZ Hybrid’s nearest competitor.

Lincoln is the first automaker to offer luxury customers a premium hybrid vehicle with an MSRP that matches its conventional gas sibling.

The decision to offer the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid and gas models at the same price point is another example of the Lincoln brand’s philosophy of bringing luxury standard to customers. From standout product design, and class-leading technology and powertrains that deliver top performance and fuel efficiency, Lincoln is changing the game in the luxury market.

2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid redefines future of American luxury

The new 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid is a game-changing vehicle that offers modern car buyers all the indulgence of a premium midsize sedan and all the environmental benefits of a hybrid vehicle at an amazing price.

Building on Ford’s reputation as a world leader in electrified technology, the 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid uses the company’s second-generation hybrid technology – the 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle

I-4 hybrid engine – named one of Ward’s 2010 “10 Best Engines.” The system combines the best attributes of the gasoline engine and electric battery-driven motors to deliver optimal performance and fuel economy.

The Lincoln MKZ Hybrid delivers a 41 mpg fuel economy rating in the city, topping its only near competitor – the 2010 Lexus HS 250h – by 6 mpg. It also trumps the Lexus with more passenger space, more standard luxury and segment-exclusive safety features.

The following features come standard on the 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid. They are either not offered at all on the Lexus HS 250h, or are available at an extra cost:

-SmartGauge with EcoGuide – Ford’s highly successful interactive technology provides real-time information to help drivers maximize fuel efficiency, and coaches drivers on how to optimize hybrid performance. Lincoln takes SmartGauge to the next level of engagement by giving drivers enhanced positive feedback on long-term fuel efficiency and driving performance through the “growth” of virtual small flowers on the system’s right-most screen. Lincoln’s white flowers, inspired by apple blossoms, remain permanently unless long-term fuel economy is reset.
-Genuine wood trim – In addition to their exquisite appearance, the Swirl Walnut and Olive Ash wood trims offered in the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid are eco-friendly as well. The veneers come from well-managed forests, as defined by strict environmental, social and economic standards, and from other rigorously controlled sources.
-Bridge of Weir leather-trimmed seats – The world-renowned luxury leather from Scotland is unembossed, allowing the natural beauty and character of the grain to shine through. The leather is milled for up to 12 hours to ensure a buttery, soft hand, and Bridge of Weir uses a chromium-free tanning process, which makes it easier to recycle.
-Lincoln SYNC – The Lincoln-exclusive voice-activated communications and entertainment system provides an omnipresent link to contacts and information. In addition to Bluetooth phone, audible text and MP3 player capabilities, Lincoln customers also can access Vehicle Health Report and 911 Assist.
-10-way power passenger seat – The seat is designed to accommodate a diverse group of passengers. Memory functions enable passengers to fine-tune and recall positions.
-Power driver memory seat settings – The driver seat memory feature helps ensure personal seating preferences anytime, with the touch of a button.
-Heated and cooled front seats – This uniquely engineered system delivers exceptional heating and cooling comfort.
-Reverse sensing system – This system senses what drivers might not see behind them and relays an audible alert if objects are near, which increases in frequency the closer a driver gets.
-Keyless entry keypad – This Lincoln-exclusive feature provides secure entry at a driver’s fingertips. A personal combination holds a memory for driver preferences. So if an owner is out for a run and doesn’t want to take the keys along, the vehicle can be opened with the touch of a few buttons.
-Easy Fuel (capless fuel filler) – This Lincoln-exclusive feature uses an integrated spring-loaded flapper door to eliminate the need for a fuel tank screw cap. That means no more fumbling to remove and tighten the cap and less fuel odor on a driver’s hands.
-Personal Safety System – This Lincoln-exclusive suite of seven protection technologies work together as a system to help protect vehicle occupants. The system includes dual-stage front airbags and an occupant classification system to sense whether the passenger seat is occupied. It tailors – or suppresses – airbag deployment to help provide an appropriate level of protection. It also features the Ford Belt-Minder system to remind front seat occupants to buckle up.
-MyKey – This Lincoln-exclusive feature allows parents to program a key to limit speed and audio volume to encourage teens to drive safer and improve fuel efficiency. It also encourages seat belt use, provides earlier low-fuel warnings, and can be programmed to sound chimes at 45, 55 and 65 mph.
-Integrated spotter mirrors – The traditional sideview mirrors are designed with a secondary convex spotter mirror in the top outer corner, which provides a view of the driver’s blind spot. When traffic enters the driver’s blind spot on either side of the vehicle, it is visible in the secondary convex mirror, alerting the driver of obstacles.
-Acoustic laminated windshield – This windshield features a layer of sound-absorbent vinyl sandwiched between two sheets of glass, which enhances interior quietness.

“Customers are very enthusiastic about the MKZ Hybrid and we think they will be even more excited to learn they sacrifice nothing to be able to go green in style,” said Felice. “We’re launching a world-class hybrid that beats all competitors, and at an introductory price that is sure to draw the interest of new customers to Lincoln.”

Lincoln Navigator combines classic Lincoln design and amenities with the functionality full-size SUV customers demand. For 2010, Navigator’s exclusive AdvanceTrac with RSC is joined by standard Trailer Sway Control.

Trailer Sway Control works in conjunction with AdvanceTrac with RSC to determine from the yaw motion of the vehicle if the trailer is swaying and takes measures – such as applying precise braking or reduced engine torque – to help bring both vehicle and trailer under control.

Unlike competitive systems, AdvanceTrac with RSC utilizes a second gyroscopic roll rate sensor to determine the vehicle’s body roll angle and roll rate. If the unique roll rate sensor detects a significant roll angle, the system applies additional countermeasures – such as applying brakes to one or more wheels or reducing engine power – to enhance vehicle rollover resistance.

In the event of an accident, Navigator is equipped with the SOS Post-Crash Alert System™, where the horn and emergency flashers are activated in an airbag deployment event. Other safety features include Safety Canopy® side-curtain air bags with rollover detection and dual-stage front air bags that deploy with varying power based on crash severity, the driver’s seat position and safety-belt usage. Front seat-mounted side air bags provide enhanced protection in the event of a side impact, while SYNC with 911 Assist can call for help.

Refinements in Technology and Comfort

For 2010, the luxurious Lincoln Navigator and Navigator L come with the convenience of standard SYNC voice-activated communications and entertainment. More than just hands-free calling, SYNC brings 911 Assist, Vehicle Health Reports, and Traffic, Directions & Information services to the Navigator, all with a pre-paid three-year subscription included for the original vehicle owner (SYNC: Traffic, Directions & Information not available with the optional navigation system).

Also available is a voice-activated navigation system with SIRIUS Travel Link that lets customers access to up-to-the-minute information and entertainment content through the vehicle’s navigation system. The information includes current gas prices from an estimated 120,000 filling stations, up-to-the-minute traffic information for 78 markets, weather conditions, sports scores and movie listings.

To help encourage safer teen driving, Lincoln Navigator for 2010 features the MyKey system. Parents simply program the key through the vehicle message center to incorporate features such as:

•Limited top speed of 80 mph
•AdvanceTrac with RSC cannot be deactivated
•Audio system volume limited to 44 percent of maximum volume
•A speed alert chime at 45, 55 and 65 mph

Navigator now features standard power-deployable running boards permitting easy ingress and egress. Premium leather-trimmed seats with an inset Lincoln star on the front headrests complement either the standard exterior or the monochrome exterior package.

Other standard features include the Easy Fuel™ capless fuel-filler system, anti-theft perimeter alarm system, second-row heated seats and rain sensing wipers that use an advanced optical sensing system to detect how hard rain or snow is falling, then determine when to activate windshield wipers and how fast to run the wiper motor.

As Powerful as it is Luxurious

Navigator is powered by a 5.4-liter V-8 engine featuring Flex Fuel (FFV) capability to give owners more options at the pump. With three valves per cylinder and variable cam timing, the 5.4-liter engine delivers a balance of refinement and muscle. Rated at 300 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque, Navigator can tow up to 9,200 pounds when properly equipped.

Navigator’s powerful engine is paired with a standard six-speed automatic transmission. With a wide 6.02:1 gear ratio and two overdrive gears (fifth and sixth), the six-speed transmission has smaller steps between gears than a typical four-speed automatic and offers improved shift quality, faster acceleration and improved fuel economy.

Navigator Safety Technologies

Standard and available 2010 Lincoln Navigator safety features include:

•AdvanceTrac with RSC
•Safety Canopy and Side Impact air bags
•LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system
•Personal Safety System™ (safety belt pretensioners, load limiting retractors, dual stage front air bags, driver seat position sensor and crash severity sensor)
•SOS Post-Crash Alert System™

Navigator Technology and Connectivity Features

Standard and available 2010 Lincoln Navigator technology features include:

•AM/FM single CD/MP3 player with audio input jack
•Premium AM/FM in-dash, six-CD/MP3 player with subwoofer and audio input jack
•SYNC voice-activated communications and entertainment system
•Voice-activated navigation system with SIRIUS Travel Link
•Rear-seat DVD system
•Illuminated Entry with Approach Lamps
•Perimeter Alarm
•Security – SecuriLock® Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS)
•Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
•Power Code™ remote start
•Adjustable pedals

New, industry-exclusive technologies and engaging design featuring world-class craftsmanship and materials further elevate the 2011 Lincoln MKX midsize luxury crossover.

-The 2011 Lincoln MKX luxury crossover features the first application of industry-exclusive MyLincoln TouchTM driver connect technology, which creates a whole new way for customers to interact with digital and vehicle technology

-Powertrain enhancements include a new 3.7-liter Duratec® V-6 engine, delivering best-in-class 305 horsepower and 280 ft.-lb. of torque versus all V-6 competitors – plus unsurpassed fuel economy
Leading the wide-ranging innovations is the all-new MyLincoln Touch driver connect technology, which delivers a smarter, safer, simpler way to connect drivers with in-car technologies and their digital lives. MyLincoln comes standard on the 2011 Lincoln MKX, providing drivers a whole new experience behind the wheel.

“With its combination of style, performance and uncompromising luxury, the Lincoln MKX has brought new customers into the Lincoln showroom in a way that very few products have before,” said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Global Product Development. “Lincoln customers tell us they care most about style and technology, and the new Lincoln MKX meets these needs perfectly. The new MyLincoln Touch technology will change the way customers interact with their vehicles while its new design language gives the vehicle a distinctive and stylish silhouette we know customers will love.”

The dramatic freshening of the 2011 Lincoln MKX extends to all areas of the vehicle: new features and technologies not available anywhere else, new exterior design, new interior design with increased use of genuine materials, new powertrain with unsurpassed fuel economy, improved driving dynamics and new tires and wheels all combine to deliver an unparalleled luxury experience.

“The 2011 Lincoln MKX represents no-compromise luxury,” said Elaine Bannon, chief engineer. “Every attribute – technology, ergonomics, material selection, power, fuel economy, driving experience – is a standout. Plus, it’s wrapped in a beautiful package.”

MyLincoln just the start for technology-packed 2011 Lincoln MKX
The industry-first MyLincoln Touch experience, powered by Lincoln SYNC®, replaces traditional vehicle buttons, knobs and gauges with clear, crisp LCD screens and five-way buttons like those found on cell phones and MP3 players. The screens can be personalized to display information relevant to each individual driver using a simple button click, voice command or touch screen tap.

The electronic finish panel on the 2011 Lincoln MKX demonstrates all the advantages of this touch-sensitive technology in a beautiful, engaging package. Activated features display amber light. When turned off, signature Lincoln White lighting is displayed.

In addition to the usual audio and climate control features, the touch-sensitive technology also operates the volume and fan controls, which is exclusive to Lincoln. Customers can swipe their fingers along the slider to adjust the volume. The slider features 10 distinct touchpoints; three full swipes bring the system to maximum volume. Customers also can touch anywhere along the slider to get a corresponding increase or decrease in volume.

The fan control is operated in a similar fashion. On both the volume control and the fan control, the distinctive Lincoln White lighting acts as a chaser.

Like the song? You can tag it
Also new on the 2011 Lincoln MKX is the world’s first use of iTunes® Tagging in an available factory-installed HD RadioTM receiver. Enabled by the available Voice-Activated Navigation System through SYNC, iTunes Tagging provides customers with the ability to “capture” a song they hear on the HD Radio receiver for later purchase from iTunes. With a simple push of a “TAG” button on the radio display, the song information will be stored in the radio’s memory.

Once a song is tagged and customers dock their iPod to the SYNC system, the “tagged” song information will transfer to that iPod. When the iPod is then synced to iTunes, a playlist of tagged songs will appear. Up to 100 tags on SYNC can be stored until the iPod is connected. When an iPod is connected, the tags are transferred from SYNC to the iPod. Customers then can preview, purchase and download tagged songs from the iTunes Store, if they so choose.

One significant benefit of HD Radio technology is that the sound quality of the broadcast is dramatically better because of the digital transmission – FM sounds like a CD and AM sounds like today’s FM broadcasts. Plus, unlike analog broadcasts, digital broadcasts aren’t susceptible to interference, fadeout and other issues.

2011 Lincoln MKX brimming with standard and class-exclusive technologies

Standard MyLincoln Touch and remote start lead the list of features or technologies that are new for the 2011 Lincoln MKX, including:

Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision Warning with Brake Support allows the driver to set the vehicle’s speed and maintain it without using the accelerator pedal, and warns the driver of a potential collision risk. It also helps reduce speed and automatically pre-charges brakes and engages an electronic brake assist system to help drivers stop more quickly when the system detects a collision is imminent.
Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with Cross Traffic Alert is a feature that helps detect vehicles in blind spots during normal driving and traffic approaching from the sides when reversing out of parking spots.
MyKeyTM is designed to allow parents to encourage teenagers to drive safely and more fuel efficiently, and increase safety belt usage. The standard MyKey feature allows owners to designate keys that can limit the vehicle’s top speed and audio volume.
Easy Fuel® Capless Fuel-Filler System is a standard Ford-exclusive feature that uses an integrated spring-loaded flapper door to eliminate the need for a fuel tank screw cap.
The 2011 Lincoln MKX has eight class-exclusive features: MyLincoln Touch, Lincoln SYNC, Easy Fuel, SecuriCodeTM keyless entry, Blind Spot Mirrors, MyKey, Cross Traffic Alert and AdvanceTrac® with RSC (Roll Stability ControlTM).

Fun tuned in while noise is tuned out
A wealth of upgrades means the 2011 Lincoln MKX will provide a more connected feel between the driver and the road through responsive acceleration, engaging steering, spirited handling and confident braking.

The new 18-inch tires have increased grip and are mounted on larger wheels than the outgoing product, helping enable enhanced stopping and improved handling. Twenty-inch wheels are available as well.

The springs, shocks and stabilizer bars also have been retuned to give the Lincoln MKX a flatter response through turns and over hills while still providing the comfortable ride luxury buyers expect and demand.

The original Lincoln MKX set many benchmarks in overall quietness, and that tradition continues as Ford internal preliminary data show the 2011 MKX scores better in speech recognition, wind noise and sound package than competitors from Lexus and Audi.

Both road noise and wind noise are significantly decreased in the 2011 MKX because of improvements found throughout the interior and exterior, including powertrain. Additional actions include:

Sound pack and acoustic glass: A more-absorptive sound pack is found throughout the interior, which reduces high-frequency noise more effectively than material that acts merely as a barrier. The result is an improved articulation index, which measures how easy it is to hear and understand someone in the vehicle. The 2011 MKX also features an acoustic headliner, and the microphone for the SYNC system has been relocated so it is closer to the driver for improved voice recognition. The windshield also is thicker and acoustic-laminated for reduced wind noise. Acoustic glass in the front doors also is standard for the 2011 model. Finally, baked-on expandable foam baffles in the fenders and rear D-pillars help seal out unwanted road noise.
Powertrain NVH improvements: Three main actions contribute to a quieter 2011 Lincoln MKX from a powertrain NVH perspective. One is the more robust engine cover. Intake and exhaust systems also have been completely retuned for a crisper note corresponding to Lincoln powertrain DNA. Finally, a “tighter” torque converter reduces engine rpm on launch and tip-in events, reducing engine noise.
More stopping power, increased braking technology
New four-wheel disc brakes provide enhanced stopping power. Key brake system upgrades include steel pistons, larger rear rotors, revised brake friction materials, revised brake booster gain and revised pedal ratios, all of which enable more initial bite and a firmer, more confident feel when customers press on the brake pedal.

The 2011 Lincoln MKX also offers several new brake-related features: Hill Start Assist, which reduces rollback on hills; Trailer Sway Control, which provides greater towing stability when equipped with the available trailer tow package; Hydraulic Brake Assist, which provides greater braking force in emergency stops; and available Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision Warning with Brake Support.

Improved performance without sacrificing fuel economy
Power for the 2011 Lincoln MKX is supplied by the 3.7-liter Duratec V-6, which employs advanced technology and clever control strategies, such as Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT) to increase horsepower and torque without compromising fuel economy.

Customers of the 2011 Lincoln MKX will enjoy a luxury crossover that has best-in-class power and torque versus all V-6 competitors with unsurpassed highway fuel economy of 25 mpg – all on regular fuel. Horsepower has been increased to 305 – a 15-percent increase compared with the outgoing product – while torque is up to 280 ft.-lbs., marking a 12-percent improvement.

The 3.7-liter Ti-VCT V-6 is mated to a six-speed SelectShift AutomaticTM transmission, which gives customers the option of a fun-to-shift manual experience.

In SelectShift mode, the transmission doesn’t second-guess the driver, giving him or her control over gear selection and performance feel. Upshifts, for instance, are not commanded at redline, and downshifts are allowed at the lowest gear possible as defined by the engine speed.

For instance, when a lower gear is selected while descending a long downhill grade, the 2011 Lincoln MKX in SelectShift mode will hold that gear until the driver manually upshifts or returns to the fully automatic setting. To help ensure safe shifting, the transmission will downshift to the lowest acceptable gear, based on a calculated maximum speed. That means if a vehicle is traveling at highway speeds, the driver cannot downshift to first gear in SelectShift mode.

Improvements to engine hardware and powertrain control strategies account for the gains in power and fuel economy. Other strategies in addition to Ti-VCT are aggressive deceleration fuel shutoff; torque-based deceleration control and battery management through “smart charging.”

New flowing exterior design perfectly wraps new Lincoln MKX technologies

The flowing exterior design of the 2011 Lincoln MKX provides the perfect complement to the luxury crossover’s industry-leading technology and class-exclusive features.

“The 2011 Lincoln MKX will be a real standout in the Lincoln showroom,” said Doyle Letson, chief designer. “The addition of the new split-wing grille, a key to Lincoln signature DNA, is just the start. The 2011 MKX has the best proportions of any Lincoln we have.

“The fender line, with the raised arch over the front wheel, as well as the lower rocker detail with beautifully tapered bright detail that runs the length of the vehicle, makes a dramatic difference in side view,” he added.

New for the 2011 model is an updated rear taillamp treatment. The lamps are now two distinct pieces that employ an indirect LED system that hides the light source while allowing the light intensity to shine through. The reverse sensors of the Blind Spot Information System are integrated into the reflectors while the Lincoln star sits proudly on a new appliqué. The 4-inch oval exhaust tips, significantly larger on the 2011 Lincoln MKX, also increase the unique luxury crossover’s presence.

The new 18- and 20-inch wheels are more dynamic and expressive. Instead of a familiar linear or blocky appearance, the wheels encompass a variety of undulating and complex shapes that help the 2011 Lincoln MKX appear always in motion. The vibrant wheel shapes again underscore the enhanced craftsmanship and attention to detail found throughout the 2011 Lincoln MKX.

All-new interior brimming with functionality and craftsmanship

The interior of the 2011 Lincoln MKX reflects an even greater emphasis on what defines Lincoln DNA: luxury, craftsmanship, genuine materials and sharper execution.

Gentle details that bring out Lincoln standards of quality and excellence include brightwork on the vents, genuine stitching on the doors and softer armrests with upgraded materials. The cupholders, with available ambient lighting, are found beneath the independent sliding leather-covered console lids, which feature decorative stitching. A power tilt/telescoping steering column and a heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel are available.

All-new leather-trimmed seats, comfort sections and standard tuxedo stripe embrace the new Lincoln DNA sew style. More genuine aluminum appliqués are standard, with aluminum accents on the door added to the spears on the instrument panel.

The two available wood accents – Olive Ash and Walnut Swirl – on the steering wheel, dashboard and doors add character and form; each selection has a livelier, natural appearance, adding even more character to the interior. Whether customers select aluminum or wood, the increased use of genuine materials in the 2011 Lincoln MKX ensures that each interior will be distinctive.

“Everything about the 2011 Lincoln MKX is vibrant and luxurious,” said Bannon. “Our MyLincoln Touch system will draw people in, helping them discover that the new Lincoln MKX delivers a total driving experience not found anywhere else.”

The 2011 Lincoln MKX will be built at Oakville Assembly Plant; Ontario, Canada.