Is that really a Continental?
I heard that question frequently during my week behind the wheel of the Lincoln Motor Company’s all-new, flagship model.
That’s because – at first glance – it looks more like a full-size German sedan.
Continental embodies a timeless definition of beauty, balancing strength, elegance, power and control. The design is thoroughly modern, with Lincoln’s new distinctive grille and athletic profile that is both dynamic and progressive.
As Mary Lowry always used to say, “you can’t even pretend to be objective about Larry cars!”
“The Continental name has long been associated with the best Lincoln has to offer, and this car delivers on that promise,” said Kumar Galhotra, president, The Lincoln Motor Company. “With this all-new model, we’ve focused on creating more human, personally tailored experiences for our clients – providing what we call quiet luxury.”
What catches your eye first are the door handles – of all things.
The graceful lines of the Continental flow seamlessly over the door handles, designed to offer elegant entry with a new door latch system that opens the door effortlessly. The handle is subtly integrated within the belt-line, creating a clean profile. At the touch of a button, the doors smoothly open, then use available power-cinching technology to gently close and secure.
An all-new Lincoln-exclusive 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine produces up to 400 horsepower and 400 lb.-ft. of torque. My all-wheel drive tester was paired with “Dynamic Torque Vectoring,” which transfers torque on demand to the appropriate rear wheel through corners – offering confident handling.
Continental’s TV commercials focus on the front and rear seats – and for good reason.
Perfect Position Seats – inspired by private jets and high-end office furniture – can be adjusted up to 30 ways. The patented design allows the seat to adjust to individual body shapes and weights for optimal stretch and comfort. Thigh cushions extend and adjust independently, allowing one leg to remain at rest while the other engages the pedals. Optional heating and cooling settings optimize comfort in any climate, while available massage functionality helps reduce muscle fatigue in the upper legs and lower back.
Rear passengers enjoy first-class travel amenities with available features that include audio and climate control, adjustable sunshades and reclining, heated and cooled massaging seats. The streamlined interior provides generous legroom.
There are other creature comforts galore – too numerous to mention. But the Revel Ultima Audio system with 19 speakers, adaptive cruise control, leather seating surfaces and tri-zone electronic climate control are all worthy of note.
And to take the stress out of parallel and perpendicular parking, Lincoln uses ultrasonic sensors on the front and rear of Continental to help locate an appropriate parking space, then automatically steer the car in.
There’s plenty more to gush over, but you’ll either have to take my word for it, or test drive this American masterpiece and be tempted to empty your bank account to park the Continental in your garage.
Base Price: $56,075
Price As Driven: $71,540
Vehicles are provided by the manufacturer. List price may vary at local dealerships.
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