Lincoln Continental Concept: New Era Of American Luxury Sedan? [NYC Preview]

2016 lincoln continental concept front unveiled ahead of the 2015 New York Auto Show
Lincoln Continental Concept

You may have noticed a recent trend related to the full-size and ultra-luxurious sedans. Buick unveiled the Avenir Concept in Detroit just a couple of months ago. And Cadillac is bringing the production version of the CT6 flagship this week. Lincoln will not be outdone, hence the Continental Concept you see here. It’s coming to the 2015 New York Auto Show.

LincolnContinentalConcept_03_Rear

The exterior style is a clear departure from the current Lincoln lineup. It’s a fresh take on the large American luxury sedan, but it somehow retains the traits that identify it as a Lincoln. A new grille opening adorns the front and is flanked by styling LED headlights. The rear features full-width “light-through-chrome” tail lights. Yes, the light fixtures have a chrome appearance and let the light shine through.

LincolnContinentalConcept_08_Interior

 

The storied Continental nameplate comes with responsibility of carrying the brand forward. This concept pays homage to the brand with a classically styled interior that has all the comforts and technology. No, the doors do not open “suicide” style. However, there is a new “E-Latch” system that allows the door handles to be mounted higher and create a smooth “shaved” appearance.

LincolnContinentalConcept_06_Rear

Lincoln has a surprise under the hood. Not many details are yet released, but there is a unique 3.0L EcoBoost V6 hiding under the sheet metal. You were probably expecting to find the 3.5L EcoBoost under there… Power numbers were not disclosed. Lincoln says that the configuration is “smooth and powerful”.

LincolnContinentalConcept_07_Interior

Is this concept a simple auto show exercise in showmanship or a production-ready vehicle. We think and hope it’s the latter.

Check out the rival to the Lincoln Continental Concept – the Buick Avenir Concept that was unveiled in Detroit.