2017 Lincoln Continental FIRST LOOK

2017 Lincoln Continental FIRST LOOK by Auto Critic Steve Hammes

As Lincoln continues to reinvent itself with an expanding luxury SUV lineup, it’s the return of their flagship full-size sedan that has everyone talking.

Starting this fall, the all-new 2017 Continental aims to bring “an elegant, effortlessly powerful, serene” car back to the storied brand “that delivers quiet luxury to the industry’s most discerning customers, bringing warm, human touches and a contemporary design.”

For instance, the Continental welcomes drivers with a brand-exclusive lighting sequence and a new E-latch door release accentuates the handshake, leaving the body side clean. An available panoramic sunroof covers nearly the entire roof, creating an open-air driving experience for up to 5 occupants.

Resuscitated this time as a front-drive-based car and built upon a stretched version of the Ford Fusion’s platform, power originates from an all-new engine exclusive to Lincoln; a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 targeted for 400 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque.  An available all-wheel drive system incorporates Dynamic Torque Vectoring which automatically adjusts power between the rear wheels to aid in cornering.  Lincoln Drive Control provides the driver 3 settings – comfort, normal and sport – adapting steering and suspension.

The interior has been crafted to rejuvenate, highlighted by the new Perfect Position Seats, inspired by private jets and adjustable up to 30 ways.  Lincoln’s Black Label treatment can be applied here too, with customization options and offering free remote vehicle pickup and drop-off for both the initial purchase and for subsequent service visits.

Pricing has yet to be announced but Lincoln says the Continental will start below $50,000.