2017 Lincoln Continental exudes luxury in Detroit

After a 13-year hiatus, Lincoln is back with a new Continental, which now enters its tenth generation. As the Lincoln MKS will cease production later this year, the all-new Continental will step in as the brand’s flagship model.

The Continental nameplate has always been associated with luxury, and according to Kumar Galhotra, president of Lincoln, “with the all-new model, we are focusing on creating more human, personally tailored experiences for our clients – providing what we call quiet luxury.”

If you’re experiencing a bout of déjà vu, we won’t fault you. The exterior design seen here is remarkably similar to the Lincoln Continental Concept that made its debut at last year’s New York International Auto Show (NYIAS).

Up front, the fascia follows the current design language that can now be found on other Lincoln models. On the Continental, the imposing aluminium grille features a pattern that resembles that of the marque’s logo, which itself takes centre stage on it. LEDs are employed for both the front and rear lighting modules as well, with puddle lights fitted in the pedestal-style side mirrors.

Another unique design element can be found as you move towards the sides of the car. Discreetly integrated within the car’s beltline are the Continental’s new E-latch electronic door handles. Lincoln say that the system uses a microprocessor to electronically assist in door opening and closing with the simple press of a button, without any mechanical linkages.

Once you’ve grasped how to operate the doors and enter the cabin, you’ll be greeted by a generous application of Bridge of Weir leather and natural woods. There is plenty of tech to go along with the affluence as well. This includes Lincoln’s “Perfect Position” front seats that can be adjusted up to not eight, not 12, not even 20, but 30 ways! Ford’s latest Sync 3 system comes as standard, with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and MirrorLink capability.

Heating, cooling and massage features are available for both the front and rear passengers’ seats as well, but adjustable recline is reserved for rear occupants. Additionally, those that are being chauffeured will also have access to a rear centre console that allows them to operate the air-con and 19-speaker Revel Ultima sound system. Lincoln is also offering three Black Label designer themes for the interior – Chalet, Thoroughbred and Rhapsody for the selective individual.

To ensure that noise from the outside world is minimised within the cabin, there is an Active Noise Control system that uses microphones throughout the cabin to listen for unwanted noises and cancels them by producing opposing sound waves. The focus on ensuring low NVH also includes available 20-inch tyres that are lined with foam to reduce road noise and acoustic-laminated side glass.

As for the parts you can’t see, the Continental rides on a heavily modified version of the ford CD4 platform, which also underpins the Ford Explorer, Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKT. Power comes from a 3.0 litre twin-turbo V6 petrol engine, which Lincoln claims produces 400 hp and 542 Nm. A six-speed automatic transmission handles power delivery to all four wheels.

Alternative engine options include a 3.7 litre naturally-aspirated V6 and a smaller turbocharged 2.7 litre V6. Both engines are paired to a six-speed automatic, and can be had in either front- or all-wheel drive configurations. Selectable drive modes through the Lincoln Drive Control system —Normal, Sport, and Comfort — adjust suspension firmness, shift mapping, and steering effort.

Safety and driver assistance system include Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection, Dynamic Torque Vectoring, Lane-Keeping System, adaptive cruise control, 360-degree camera and auto brake hold. Lincoln say that its new flagship has what it takes to woo buyers in US and China away from the likes of the Audi A6, BMW 5 Series, Lexus GS and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Do you think it is capable of doing so?