If you liked the Lincoln Continental Concept, you’re gonna love the redesigned 2017 Lincoln MKZ that made its debut at the LA Auto Show. The redesigned Lincoln mid-size sedan, brings with it the same controversial styling which is the new face of Lincoln.
Getting its first major restyle in four years, the Lincoln MKZ receives a number of comprehensive updates for 2017, starting with the new signature Lincoln grille design and LED headlamps that are virtually identical to those seen on the Continental Concept.
New 19-inch wheel designs and other small detail changes can be seen around the sides and rear flanks of the car as well, but the new face is the big news here. And we’re told to look for this theme on all future Lincolns going forward.
The cabin also gets its share of new touches. Though mostly details and refinements they’re good ones. For instance, the aggravating slide-bar center stack controls have been replaced by new buttons and knobs which will make life a lot easier behind the wheel.
Lincoln’s new Revel Audio system will be available too, which requires a unique door panel design to house the new top-level speakers. These are made my Harman-Kardon, and are the brand’s top line equipment.
You’ll also notice some new patterns and finishes here, shown in the Black Label trim grade. For 2017, three themes will be available; the Chalet you see here, Vineyard and Thoroughbred. The trim level gets not only equipment upgrades but service too, like in-home consultation when purchasing.
The other major news for the 2017 Lincoln MKZ is what’s under the hood. The new top engine will be a Lincoln exclusive 3.0 liter GTDI, or twin-turbo direct-injection V6. Notice that the Ford term EcoBoost has been replaced by GTDI? I did.
The engine is good for a pretty impressive 400 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque when paired with all-wheel drive. The engine is rated lower at 350 horsepower for front-wheel drive models, but still has 400 pound-feet of torque.
Dynamic Torque Vectoring comes by way of a new Driver’s Package for the 3.0-liter V6 which amps up cornering ability under power. And the available Lincoln Drive Control with adjustable suspension damping will be good to firm things up when desired.
Other engines include a base 2.0 liter GTDI four-cylinder engine with 245 horsepower and the hybrid powertrain which is essentially carried over from the current Lincoln MKZ.
And lastly, a raft of the latest technology in the way of driver-assistance and crash prevention systems will be available including adaptive cruise control with auto stop. And there’s a new auto hold feature that will keep the car stopped in traffic without having to hold the pedal down.
The new Lincoln MKZ goes on sale in summer 2016 with pricing to be announced closer to that time, along with EPA estimates for its new powertrains.
