Lincoln has introduced the Continental concept ahead of its public debut at this week’s New York Motor Show. Finished in Rhapsody Blue, the Continental concept is one of the most striking Lincolns in recent memory. It breaks all ties with the company’s current design language and instead adopts a bold, upscale look that is characterized by an arch-shaped radiator grille with mesh inserts, a curved hood and swept-back headlights with laser-assisted high beams.
Out back, Lincoln’s latest concept features pronounced haunches, thin tail lamps connected by a light bar and quad exhaust pipes. 21-inch alloy wheels wrapped by Pirelli P-Zero tires add a finishing touch to the low-slung look and increase the sedan’s road presence.
The cockpit is accessed via E-latch door handles that are integrated into the belt line. While the exterior boasts a relatively understated look, the interior stands out with a wide center console fitted with acres of chrome trim, a sunroof that tints at the push of a button and plush 30-way adjustable front seats upholstered in a combination of Venetian leather and Alcantara. Occupants can enjoy a quiet ride provided by Lincoln’s Active Noise Control technology or play their favorite tunes through a 19-speaker Revel Ultima System stereo.
The passengers who ride in the back can relax thanks to aircraft-inspired tablet lap trays built into the center console and a champagne storage compartment. Alternatively, the rear seats can fully recline, letting the occupants sleep on long drives.
Power comes from a Lincoln-specific 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, but additional technical details were not published. Lincoln says that the concept offers three driving modes called normal, sport and comfort, respectively.
Far from a simple design study, the Continental concept is a hugely important car for Lincoln. A slightly toned-down version of it designed to replace the slow-selling MKS as the automaker’s flagship will be introduced next year, and the sedan will usher in the design language that will influence most – if not all – of the company’s cars over the next few years.