Continental is arguably Lincoln's best-known nameplate and one of the most recognizable in the auto industry, so it's a wonder this upscale brand took as long as it did to bring that badge back to its lineup.
That happened last year with the introduction of this sleek flagship sedan, which carries over unchanged into 2018.
Like last year, power comes from a choice of two turbocharged V6 engines, displacing 2.7 and 3.0 litres and boasting power outputs of 335 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque and 400 hp and 400 lb-ft respectively. Those are fitting figures for a full-size luxury sedan, but we're less impressed by the car's six-speed transmission, which looks old fashioned next to the eight- and nine-speeds found in competitive models from European manufacturers. A better fit is the Continental's standard AWD.
If you're looking for a more basic big car for a livery business, Lincoln offers a 3.7L V6 engine making a more modest 305 hp and 280 lb-ft.
Riding on a stretched version of the mid-size MKZ's chassis, the Continental comes standard with the electronically-controlled damping system and active noise cancellation to create a smooth and serene driving experience for those in the cabin.
Inside, there's leather and chrome trim, plus Lincoln’s signature push-button transmission. The Continental comes with Sync3, and includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Also included is a power tilt and telescoping steering column, front and rear parking sensors with reverse camera, and proximity key with push-button start.
Lincoln registered 50 patents for this car's optional 30-way adjustable front buckets, which boast multi-function massage and power adjustable front and left under-thigh supports. Rear-seat passengers are treated to heating, ventilation, massage and power adjustments, as well as an optional arm rest with integrated LCD display.
The Continental is also available with blind-spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert, collision warning with auto-braking, pedestrian detection, a 360-degree parking camera, adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.
This is a nice big car, but it came along just as Volvo rolled out its styling S90 and Hyundai launched its Genesis luxury brand with the impressive G80 and a unique sales model, and finds itself competing with high-end crossovers and SUVs are finding more sales traction these days that traditional sedans.
So while the Continental is just the kind of car Lincoln needed to raise its profile in the busy luxury segment, the timing could have been better: Parent company Ford might have better spent its money developing a more styling replacement for the big MKT seven-seat crossover.
Fuel consumption estimates are 14.0/9.4 L/100 km (city/highway) with the 2.7L engine and 14.5/9.8 for 3.0L models.
This vehicle has not yet been reviewed
