Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Lincoln MKZ gets Executive Package, Ron Burgundy approves of rich walnut trim]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/25/lincoln-mkz-gets-executive-package-ron-burgundy-approves-of-ric/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/25/lincoln-mkz-gets-executive-package-ron-burgundy-approves-of-ric/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/25/lincoln-mkz-gets-executive-package-ron-burgundy-approves-of-ric/#commentsFiled under:


2010 Lincoln MKZ - Click above for a high-res image gallery

If you have many leather-bound books and your apartment smells of rich mahogany, then you might be interested in the new Executive Appearance Package option for the 2010 Lincoln MKZ. Available in late summer, the new trim package offers "more traditional luxury appointments" for Lincoln's base sedan, a result of early sales showing buyers preferring well-equipped models. The package comes in Dark Charcoal or Cashmere colors and includes unique stitching on the door trim, an insert on the console armrest, a genuine Swirl Walnut wood console and instrument panel accents, along with premium floor mats with the Lincoln star. Full details are available in the press release after the jump.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Lincoln MKZ

Continue reading Lincoln MKZ gets Executive Package, Ron Burgundy approves of rich walnut trim

Lincoln MKZ gets Executive Package, Ron Burgundy approves of rich walnut trim originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 25 Jun 2009 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Lincoln MKZ2010 MKZ2010LincolnMkz2010MkzLincolnLincoln MKZLincoln MKZ Executive PackageLincolnMkzLincolnMkzExecutivePackageMKZThu, 25 Jun 2009 19:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: 2010 Lincoln MKZ makes a name for itself in the middle]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/17/review-2010-lincoln-mkz-makes-a-name-for-itself-in-middle/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/17/review-2010-lincoln-mkz-makes-a-name-for-itself-in-middle/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/17/review-2010-lincoln-mkz-makes-a-name-for-itself-in-middle/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2010 Lincoln MKZ - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Lincoln MKZ began life as the Zephyr. It was bland-looking and far too underpowered to compete in the increasingly competitive entry-level luxury class. Ford updated the mid-size sedan back in 2007 with a more powerful engine, some cosmetic updates, and a new alphanumeric moniker. Despite the alterations, the least expensive Lincoln still didn't stack up with the competition in many areas, let alone in terms of image or "wow" factor.

Understandably, Lincoln is looking to reverse the fortunes of its MKZ for the 2010 model year, with a thorough makeover on the inside and some major cosmetic tweaks on the outside. Has Lincoln improved its volume sedan entry enough to make the MKZ a consideration for car shoppers? Hit the jump to find out how the 2010 Lincoln MKZ fared in our Autoblog review.


Gallery: Review: 2010 Lincoln MKZ


Photos copyright (C)2009 Chris Shunk / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Review: 2010 Lincoln MKZ makes a name for itself in the middle

Review: 2010 Lincoln MKZ makes a name for itself in the middle originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 lincoln mkz2010LincolnMkzfeaturedlincolnlincoln mkzLincolnMkzmkzreviewreviewsWed, 17 Jun 2009 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[First Drive: 2010 Lincoln MKZ, a solid performer gets a makeover]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/17/first-drive-2010-lincoln-mkz-a-solid-performer-gets-a-makeover/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/17/first-drive-2010-lincoln-mkz-a-solid-performer-gets-a-makeover/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/17/first-drive-2010-lincoln-mkz-a-solid-performer-gets-a-makeover/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2010 Lincoln MKZ - Click above for high-res image gallery

Launched in 2006 as the Zephyr, Lincoln's entry-level luxury sedan has undergone quite a few changes over the last three years. Graced with a new name - the MKZ - in 2007, as well as a 3.5-liter V6 and available all-wheel drive, the feature list continued to grow when SYNC and reverse park-assist were added to the MKZ in 2008. Like its Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan brothers, the 2010 MKZ benefits from a significant mid-cycle refresh that Lincoln hopes will make it more competitive in its segment. We recently spent a day with the new MKZ, scrutinizing its revamped exterior design, inspecting its all-new interior and testing out the re-tuned engine and suspension. Read on to see if the sum of the 2010 Lincoln MKZ's parts add up to an improved car.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Lincoln MKZ


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc

Continue reading First Drive: 2010 Lincoln MKZ, a solid performer gets a makeover

First Drive: 2010 Lincoln MKZ, a solid performer gets a makeover originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 Apr 2009 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Lincoln MKZ2010 Lincoln MKZ review2010 Lincoln MKZ test drive2010LincolnMkz2010LincolnMkzReview2010LincolnMkzTestDrivefeaturedfeaturesfirst driveFirstDriveLincolnLincoln MKZLincoln MKZ reviewLincolnMkzLincolnMkzReviewMKZFri, 17 Apr 2009 11:58:00 EST<![CDATA[2010 Lincoln MKZ will start at $34,995]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/18/2010-lincoln-mkz-will-start-at-34-995/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/18/2010-lincoln-mkz-will-start-at-34-995/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/18/2010-lincoln-mkz-will-start-at-34-995/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2010 Lincoln MKZ - Click above for high-res image gallery

Perhaps a Ford Fusion just isn't upscale enough for you, and even a Mercury Milan is too plebeian to be seen in. Fortunately there's a third option called the Lincoln MKZ that, like its less expensive brethren, was redesigned for the 2010 model year. Along with its new, more in-your-face nose bearing Lincoln's flying wing grille, the MKZ also gets a new price that starts at $34,995 including destination charges. If you demand the sure footedness of all-wheel-drive, your MKZ will begin a little higher at $36,855. For comparison's sake, a 2008 MKZ starts at $32,695 not including destination charges.

Besides your choice of how many wheels are driven, there aren't any trim levels for the MKZ, just lots of options to tack on your order sheet like a power moonroof ($1,200), THX II certified stereo with surround sound ($995) and special White Platinum Tri-Coat pain ($495). New for 2010, however, is a Sport Appearance Package, which includes stiffer springs and larger stabilizer bars, 18-inch Euroflange polished wheels (17-inch wheels are standard), a unique grille, body-color door handles, darker headlamps and a gussied up interior. Click here to view the complete pricing PDF and check out Lincoln's official press release after the jump.


Gallery: 2010 Lincoln MKZ


[Source: Ford]

Continue reading 2010 Lincoln MKZ will start at $34,995

2010 Lincoln MKZ will start at $34,995 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Mar 2009 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 lincoln mkz2010LincolnMkzlincolnlincoln mkzlincoln mkz priceLincolnMkzLincolnMkzPricemkzWed, 18 Mar 2009 12:59:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2008: 2010 Lincoln MKZ unveiled]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/19/la-2008-2010-lincoln-mkz-unveiled/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/19/la-2008-2010-lincoln-mkz-unveiled/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/19/la-2008-2010-lincoln-mkz-unveiled/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for high-res image gallery of the 2010 Lincoln MKZ

Lincoln's foray into the entry level luxury sedan market has gone through several changes over the past few years, starting with the introduction of the Zephyr in 2006 and evolving into the MKZ in 2007. In addition to the name change, Lincoln replaced the 3.0L V6 with a 3.5L unit, added a 6-speed automatic and provided the option of AWD. Now for 2010, Lincoln has given the MKZ a substantial refresh to keep pace in one of the most competitive segments. Follow the jump to see what's new for the MKZ, and check out our high-res image galleries below of official and live shots taken when we had a chance to preview the car in person last week.

Gallery: 2010 Lincoln MKZ


Gallery: 2010 Lincoln MKZ - LIVE


Live photos copyright (C)2008 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading LA 2008: 2010 Lincoln MKZ unveiled

LA 2008: 2010 Lincoln MKZ unveiled originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Nov 2008 15:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Lincoln MKZ2010 MKZ2010LincolnMkz2010MkzLA 2008La2008LincolnLincoln MKZLincolnMkzMKZWed, 19 Nov 2008 15:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Lincoln MKT headed to Detroit, facelifted MKZ to LA]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/12/lincoln-mkt-coming-to-detroit-facelifted-mkz-to-l-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/12/lincoln-mkt-coming-to-detroit-facelifted-mkz-to-l-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/12/lincoln-mkt-coming-to-detroit-facelifted-mkz-to-l-a/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Lincoln MKT concept

Mark Fields, Ford's president of the Americas, has confirmed that the Lincoln MKT crossover is due to be reveal this January at the Detroit Auto Show, while a refreshed MKZ will be unveiled at the Los Angeles Show in November.

We already knew the Ford Flex-based CUV was headed to Detroit, with power provided by either a 3.7-liter or a 3.5-liter Ecoboost V6. Both six- and seven-passenger seating arrangements will be offered, along with Blind Spot Monitoring and a Cross Traffic Alert system which utilizes two sonar modules to notify drivers that a vehicle has moved into their blind spot by shining a light on the corresponding outside mirror. Sales are expected to begin later in 2009 and Ford is insistent that the MKT won't share any body panels with its platform sibling.

The facelifted MKZ sedan will sport the new split-wing grille originally found on the MKR concept. New taillights are also rumored to be part of the package and sales should begin later this year or early in 2009.

Gallery: Lincoln MKT Concept


[Source: MotorTrend]

Lincoln MKT headed to Detroit, facelifted MKZ to LA originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 12 Sep 2008 19:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>detroit 2009detroit auto showDetroit2009DetroitAutoShowfordla 2008La2008lincolnlincoln mktlincoln mkzLincolnMktLincolnMkzlos angeles auto showLosAngelesAutoShowmktmkzFri, 12 Sep 2008 19:02:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Meet the new face of Lincoln: Harry Connick Jr. baby]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/17/video-meet-the-new-face-of-lincoln-harry-connick-jr-baby/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/17/video-meet-the-new-face-of-lincoln-harry-connick-jr-baby/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/17/video-meet-the-new-face-of-lincoln-harry-connick-jr-baby/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Lincoln has seen a bit of a resurgence lately, with sales up 11% over last year. To keep the good times rolling, Ford has tabbed the world's best Frank Sinatra impersonator; Harry Connick Jr. The jazz scion will make his debut on Sunday Night Football sporting MKX duds on a trip through his hometown New Orleans. The spot will run during the Saints game, and the theme is about dreams.

The Lincoln brand also picked up amputee triathlete Sarah Reinertsen to help sell the MKZ. Reinertsen was the first female amputee to finish the Ford Ironman Triathlon Kona. While charitable contributions and inspirational athletes make for great stories, we question how much it helps to move product off dealer lots. Lincoln needs to focus more on highlighting its products, as the MKX and MKZ are newer offerings that many luxury buyers don't even know exist. The MKX commercial is playing during a pricey primetime NFL slot, and the MKX interior is largely unseen and the exterior appears all too briefly. Check out the Harry Connick Jr. MKX commercial after the jump.

[Source: BRANDWEEK]

Gallery: 2007 Lincoln MKX

Continue reading VIDEO: Meet the new face of Lincoln: Harry Connick Jr. baby

VIDEO: Meet the new face of Lincoln: Harry Connick Jr. baby originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Oct 2007 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Harry Connick Jr.HarryConnickJr.lincoln advertisingLincolnAdvertisingMKXMKZSarah ReinerstenSarahReinerstenWed, 17 Oct 2007 11:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford trucks and SUVs giving way to CUV sales]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/26/ford-trucks-and-suvs-giving-way-to-cuv-sales/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/26/ford-trucks-and-suvs-giving-way-to-cuv-sales/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/26/ford-trucks-and-suvs-giving-way-to-cuv-sales/#commentsFiled under: , ,

In 2000, more than 500,000 CUVs were sold in the U.S. In 2006, nearly 2,500,000 CUVs were sold, nearly a 400% increase in just six years. In fact, CUVs and midsized cars now account for 50% of the industry's sales, having claimed 20% from the sales of trucks and SUVs.

With crossovers in general being the fastest growing segment in autos, the Edge and Lincoln MKZ are leading the way for Ford. The Edge -- with a conquest rate of 41% -- is reportedly outselling the Fusion, with both models still showing month-on-month gains, though Ford's own numbers up through the month of March don't agree with that claim. The MKZ MKX is no slouch either, selling more than the RDX and both of Infiniti's FX models.

We don't know how often this kind of thing happens, however: Bob King, a dealer in Cincinnati, said that a couple traded a 2004 BMW Z3 and a 2004 Corvette for two new Edges. And that was after they tested a BMW X5 and Lexus RX 330. Even if that's not happening every day, the sales trend is very good news for the Blue Oval. By the end of 2008, Ford will have six CUV's on the market, and predicts CUV sales in the industry to reach 3 million by 2010.

[Source: Blue Oval News]

UPDATE: Post corrected to more accurately reflect source article. Sorry!

Ford trucks and SUVs giving way to CUV sales originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Apr 2007 09:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crossovercuvedgemkzsalesThu, 26 Apr 2007 09:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Autoblog week in photos: Week of March 12, 2007]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/18/autoblog-week-in-photos-week-of-march-12-2007/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/18/autoblog-week-in-photos-week-of-march-12-2007/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/18/autoblog-week-in-photos-week-of-march-12-2007/#commentsFiled under:

With another week officially in to books, it's time to take a look at back at it in pictures. This week on Autoblog we had reviews of the Chevy Aveo and the Lincoln MKZ and more vehicles from the Geneva Motor Show were shown. We've captured some of the best photos and placed them in this video. Some of the many galleries from last week are below for your enjoyment.

Music for this piece comes from Johnny Rawls and the Rays with "Long Black Car" and from The Cartoon Factory with "The King of the City". Enjoy!

Gallery: Autoblog Garage - 2007 Lincoln MKZ AWD

Gallery: Autorama

Gallery: 2009 Ford Taurus SHO Concept

Gallery: GM Heritage Center: Concepts

Gallery: Transformers Movie Pics

Autoblog week in photos: Week of March 12, 2007 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 18 Mar 2007 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autoblogAutoramaAveogalleriesgenevaMKZSun, 18 Mar 2007 15:59:00 EST<![CDATA[In the Autoblog Garage: 2007 Lincoln MKZ AWD]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/12/in-the-autoblog-garage-2007-lincoln-mkz-awd/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/12/in-the-autoblog-garage-2007-lincoln-mkz-awd/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/12/in-the-autoblog-garage-2007-lincoln-mkz-awd/#commentsFiled under: , ,


click above image to view high-res pics of the 2007 Lincoln MKZ AWD

This review won't be as long as most since we had the opportunity to test the 2006 Lincoln Zephyr just last year. For 2007, the Zephyr becomes the MKZ (pronounced Em Kay Zee) and gains improvements that should have been present last year when the car debuted. Items like a more powerful 3.5L V6 and all-wheel drive have been added, along with the most mild of tweaks to the front end. So the question that arrived along with our Lincoln MKZ AWD tester is whether or not what's been added for 2007 has improved the car's appeal.

Gallery: Autoblog Garage - 2007 Lincoln MKZ AWD

Continue reading In the Autoblog Garage: 2007 Lincoln MKZ AWD

In the Autoblog Garage: 2007 Lincoln MKZ AWD originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Mar 2007 13:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2007 Lincoln MKZ2007LincolnMkzawdlincolnLincoln MKZ AWDLincolnMkzAwdmkzreviewtestMon, 12 Mar 2007 13:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit Auto Show: Lincoln MKR rolls into the spotlight]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/07/detroit-auto-show-lincoln-mkr-rolls-into-the-spotlight/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/07/detroit-auto-show-lincoln-mkr-rolls-into-the-spotlight/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/07/detroit-auto-show-lincoln-mkr-rolls-into-the-spotlight/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



After the Lincoln MKR found its way to center stage inside the Cobo Arena here in Detroit, Peter Horbury (Ford's North American design chief) stepped out of the Lincoln with the gait of a proud man. Now, that could be just because he avoided the task of explaining Ford's Airstream concept (J Mays must have lost that game of rock-paper-scissors), or perhaps it's because Lincoln has some design cues it can call its own after so many years of wandering the styling wilderness.

In the flesh, the MKR's proportions the include severe inward curvature of the rocker panels and short overhangs make it appear smaller than it actually is, and lend an athletic stance - something we probably haven't said of contemporary Lincoln products. The grille stands out - perhaps too much so - from the other subtle styling cues, but it would at least be unmistakable when headed down the road.

The TwinForce twin-turbo V6 is mated to a six-speed gearbox of unknown type (a twin-layshaft would make sense, given the engine nomenclature), which is shifted via pushbuttons on the T-shaped center console and paddles on the steering wheel. The recycled black oak that runs throughout the interior has just the right finish and looks antique without looking old, and contrasts nicely with the white leather and chrome accents. We're betting that the bottom-swinging pedals and deep-dish steering wheel don't ever make it to production, though.

And so just when can we expect to see showrooms filled with this spiritual successor to the Mark VII and Mark VIII? Well, Ford made no mention of production, so for now everyone is left to guessing.

Check out Lincoln's complete press release after the jump, and the 19 additional high-resolution live shots we've added to the MKR Concept's gallery.

Continue reading Detroit Auto Show: Lincoln MKR rolls into the spotlight

Detroit Auto Show: Lincoln MKR rolls into the spotlight originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 07 Jan 2007 08:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fordlincolnmark VIImark VIIImkrmkxmkzSun, 07 Jan 2007 08:58:00 EST<![CDATA[30 Minutes with the 2007 Lincoln MKX]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/11/18/30-minutes-with-the-2007-lincoln-mkx/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/11/18/30-minutes-with-the-2007-lincoln-mkx/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/11/18/30-minutes-with-the-2007-lincoln-mkx/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Recently we had the opportunity to spend some time behind the wheel of the new 2007 Lincoln MKX crossover. This is a critical vehicle to the brand as it works to establish credibility and build brand equity in the luxury crossover market against competitors such as the Lexus RX and Infiniti FX.

Driving the heaviest model available -- laden with AWD, Vista Roof, etc. -- initial impressions with the powertrain are very positive. The 3.5-liter V6 is smooth until pressed into high rpm duty, where it gets a little raspy. The engine is complimented by an excellent six-speed automatic transmission that provides reasonable acceleration from a standstill, holding the lower gears to prevent premature up shifts. Without the constant up-and-down hunting sometimes experienced with an automatic, this gearbox feels almost intuitive in its ability to be in the right gear at the right time. A request for more acceleration is quickly addressed with a downshift from sixth to fourth or even third when necessary.

Follow the jump for the rest of our driving impressions and some official photos from the MKX press kit.

Continue reading 30 Minutes with the 2007 Lincoln MKX

30 Minutes with the 2007 Lincoln MKX originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 18 Nov 2006 16:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>30 minutes30MinutesLincolnMKXMKZtest driveTestDriveSat, 18 Nov 2006 16:38:00 EST<![CDATA[So you want to be a Special Agent?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/11/17/so-you-want-to-be-a-special-agent/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/11/17/so-you-want-to-be-a-special-agent/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/11/17/so-you-want-to-be-a-special-agent/#commentsFiled under: ,

Generally, manufacturer vehicle programs are held to show the vehicles and go for a short drive. They usually feed you a boring lunch and then send you on your way, loaded with all kinds of information to sift through and find the real story. Tying into the James Bond theme and Ford's affiliation with the new movie "Casino Royale", Lincoln took us all on a full-day adventure. The "My Dream is to be a Special Agent" program held in Detroit to showcase the new MKZ and MKX models as well as Lincoln's new "Dreams" (www.mydreams.tv) website, which goes live Monday, was anything but boring.

It started as a normal media event, with executives and engineers presenting information about the new products and features and walking us through the new website. From there it got interesting. In an effort to give us the true Bond driving experience, we were then invited to a couple of really cool driving events.

We were handed the reins of a new Mustang GT and invited to try our skills at drifting the Mustangs through a wet autocross course. Are they nuts? Asking journalists to drive like, well, journalists? As if that weren't enough, we were then escorted to the Michigan Stare Police "Alley Test" where we guided a P.I. Crown Vic through a narrow lane of cones first forward, then backward, only stopping briefly to back into a parking spot and accelerate out. Lots of fun, damaged cones, and bruised egos.

After my turn in the MKZ, we stopped at the Firing Line gun range and were allowed to shoot an array of pistols, learn close combat skills, and test our S.W.A.T. abilities on a laser simulator. If you haven't had the chance to fire a .44 Magnum, it's one of those things you should put on your list of stuff to do before you die.

Into the MKX and on to the MGM Grand Casino for a "shaken not stirred" martini class and game of baccarat on the house. Are you starting to see the 007 connection yet?

Last but not least we were shuttled to the Star Theatre to attend a pre-screening of the new James Bond 007 movie "Casino Royale" which featured the most automotive nirvana this side of "Gone in 60 Seconds". Of course, James eventually drives the Aston-Martin DBS, but only after piloting a new Ford Mondeo sedan as well as a '64 Aston-Martin DB7. Other notables included a Bentley Continental GT and GTC as well as a Flying Spur. One scene includes the Bentleys, the DBS, a Maserati Spyder, and a Rolls-Royce Phantom. Although the movie has tons of cool automotive iron, very little of the movie revolved around the cars. As a matter of fact, the DBS gets driven about 2 minutes before it is...I don't want to ruin it for you!

Between each of the events, we were able to drive an MKX and MKZ. The initial impressions will be posted soon, with full Autoblog Garage evaluations scheduled in the very near future.

So you want to be a Special Agent? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 Nov 2006 18:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>007Casino RoyaleCasinoRoyaleJames BondJamesBondLincolnMKXMKZFri, 17 Nov 2006 18:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford cutting production big time in 2007]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/30/ford-cutting-production-big-time-in-2007/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/30/ford-cutting-production-big-time-in-2007/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/30/ford-cutting-production-big-time-in-2007/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

A week ago, Ford posted a $5.8 billion loss due to sagging North American sales. To make things worse, CFO Don Leclair announced yesterday that Ford expects North American production for the first six months of 2007 to be down 8 to 12 percent from 2006 due to lower demand for its products and at least partially due to the demise of the Taurus. The second six months of '07 are expected to be up 5 to 10 percent compared with '06.

For the entire year of 2006, For expects production numbers to be down about 9 percent from 2005.

Can Ford pull out of this spiral with new products such as the Edge, MKX, and MKZ? Initial reviews have been good, but we will reserve judgment until we have had them through the Autoblog Garage. Watch for our reviews and comments on all three vehicles very soon.

Wall Street is keeping a close eye on Ford as well. Nervous stockholders saw Ford shares down 19 cents, or 2 percent, at $8.10 in morning trading Monday.

[Source: Detroit News via AP]

Ford cutting production big time in 2007 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 30 Oct 2006 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demandEdgeFordlincolnmercueyMKXMKZproduction cutsProductionCutssalesTaurusMon, 30 Oct 2006 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford brings the bling to SEMA]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/12/ford-brings-the-bling-to-sema/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/12/ford-brings-the-bling-to-sema/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/12/ford-brings-the-bling-to-sema/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



We've already reported on GM's plan to capitalize on the urban trend of throwing dubs on Grandma's Buick by crashing SEMA with 11 customized Lucernes. Ford intends on bringing their own brand of bling in the form of two custom Edges, a pair of worked-over Lincolns and one turbo'd Fusion.

The Ford Edge pictured above spent a considerable amount of time with the H&R crew and the resulting pimpage is far from subtle. The customized Edge is bathed in Tangerine Orange gloss and fitted with a custom front-fascia that serves as a home to a pair of Hella Celis fog lamps. The hood gets a dose of black paint to give it the boy-racer look, which sets the tone for the both the roof and the 22x10-inch Modern Society wheels. The aggressive stance is courtesy of H&R's very own Sport Spring kit, equipped with wheel spacers and camber adjustment bolts to bring the body down approximately two inches below stock. The only power mod is the addition of a MagnaFlow cat-back exhaust which gives the prerequisite burble when rolling up to the show stand.

Of the other four vehicles to be debuted, three of which were created by 3dCarbon, with an emphasis on refinement and streetablity and the last, a Fusion, was 'tuned' by MRT. Along with the FoMoCo customs, Ford will also have a set of Mustang GT500s and will show their 2008 Ford Super-Duty pickup for the first time. Details on all the vehicles, along with photos are available after the jump.

[Source: Ford Motor Co.]

Continue reading Ford brings the bling to SEMA

Ford brings the bling to SEMA originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Oct 2006 06:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dcarbonedgef-seriesfordfusiongt500lincolnmkxmkzsemashelbyThu, 12 Oct 2006 06:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Zephyr, we hardly knew ya: Lincoln introduces 2007 MKZ under $30k]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/11/zephyr-we-hardly-knew-ya-lincoln-introduces-2007-mkz-under-30/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/11/zephyr-we-hardly-knew-ya-lincoln-introduces-2007-mkz-under-30/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/11/zephyr-we-hardly-knew-ya-lincoln-introduces-2007-mkz-under-30/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Lincoln has officially changed the name of its entry-level luxury sedan from Zephyr to MKZ, and is reintroducing it for 2007 with a new engine, styling tweaks and the availability of all-wheel drive for the first time ever on a Lincoln car.

The new engine is Ford's 3.5-liter V6 rated at 263 horsepower. The MKZ will be its first application in a car, though it will be used in the Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX CUVs, as well. The transmission is a six-speed automatic that, if our memory hasn't failed us, is the one developed in conjunction with GM rather than sourced from one of Ford's suppliers.

It's difficult to see the styling tweaks made to the MKZ, but supposedly they're there. The car's interior, perhaps its most polarizing feature (we liked it when we reviewed the Zephyr), remains in tact and can be had with genuine wood, leather and satin nickel trim.

Finally, the MKZ gets all-wheel drive for 2007. Combined with the potent powerplant and a ride tuned for "luxury performance", the new MKZ should be a much better athlete than its short-lived predecessor.

The 2007 Lincoln MKZ starts below the magic $30k mark with a base price of $29,890 for a front-wheel drive model (just $230 more than the base price of the Zephyr) and $31,765 for the all-wheel drive model. It'll hit showrooms in October with a six-year / 70,000-mile powertrain warranty.

Lots more pics and Lincoln's press release can be found after the jump.

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Zephyr, we hardly knew ya: Lincoln introduces 2007 MKZ under $30k

Zephyr, we hardly knew ya: Lincoln introduces 2007 MKZ under $30k originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 11 Sep 2006 11:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3.5LMKZZephyrMon, 11 Sep 2006 11:24:00 EST<![CDATA[R.I.P.: Lincoln V8]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/21/r-i-p-lincoln-v8/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/21/r-i-p-lincoln-v8/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/21/r-i-p-lincoln-v8/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Amidst a series of recent shake-ups in Ford's production, a new casualty has fallen prey to the "way forward." The Yamaha derived 4.8-liter V8, currently found in the Volvo XC90, sought a new home within the Lincoln MKS in 2008. That possibility has been squashed, mainly due to the low volume of vehicles that would suit the engine.

In doing so, Ford is putting all their power-producing eggs into one, 3.5-liter V6 engine. This stalwart of Ford's product line is currently available in everything from the Lincoln MKZ to the Ford 500, although the power output will be increased slightly for the MKS, due to it's competitors V8-advantage.

Although this lack of engine choice may prove to be a sticking point with consumers, the possibility of not offering a V8 may be in Ford's best interest if fuel economy concerns continue to mount.

[Source: Automotive News]

R.I.P.: Lincoln V8 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Aug 2006 09:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>500fordlincolnmksmkzvolvoxc90yamahaMon, 21 Aug 2006 09:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Dwayne Wade, chef Rocco DeSpirito tapped for Lincoln ads]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/04/dwayne-wade-chef-rocco-despirito-tapped-for-lincoln-ads/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/04/dwayne-wade-chef-rocco-despirito-tapped-for-lincoln-ads/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/04/dwayne-wade-chef-rocco-despirito-tapped-for-lincoln-ads/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Dwayne Wade is still fresh from his first NBA title with the Miami Heat and a "King of Bling" award at GM's All-Car Showdown for custom Hummer H2 SUT. Lincoln has announced, however, that the NBA All-Star will appear in a TV spot for its new Navigator. Celebrity chef Rocco DeSpirito will also appear in ads for the luxury automaker, which will be part of the new "Advancing the American Dream" campaign.

The series of ads is said to be the largest push by Lincoln in over a decade, and is intended to "speak to people achieving success on their own terms". The first spots are said to show the Lincoln product itself (the Navigator, MKZ, and MKX), while the celebs will hit the screen later when the vehicles start arriving in showrooms. Expect the D-wade ad sometime in September. Does this mean the NBA All-Star has traded in his blinged-out Hummer H2 SUT for a new Navi? What would Shaq say?

[Source: Detroit News]

Dwayne Wade, chef Rocco DeSpirito tapped for Lincoln ads originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Aug 2006 12:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>d-wadedwayneflashfordlincolnmiami heatmkxmkznavigatorwadeFri, 04 Aug 2006 12:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Lincoln MKZ gets another name change]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/24/lincoln-mkz-gets-another-name-change/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/24/lincoln-mkz-gets-another-name-change/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/24/lincoln-mkz-gets-another-name-change/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Will a Lincoln by any other name sell as sweetly?


The Zephyr/MKZ has racked up a good number of sales for Lincoln despite the brand's best efforts to confuse buyers over its name. Originally dubbed the Zephyr for its inaugural year of sales, Lincoln decided to quickly change the car's moniker to MKZ, pronounced "Mark Z," so that it would better jive with upcoming models like the MKX luxury crossover utility vehicle. After an earful of complaints from dealers, however, Lincoln's entry-level luxury sedan will henceforth be known as the (drum roll, please...) MKZ, pronounced "em-kay-zee." Funny, that's how we've been pronouncing "em-kay-zee" this whole time. Talk about a solution looking for a problem... sheesh.

[Source: The Detroit News]

Lincoln MKZ gets another name change originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Jul 2006 12:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>car monikercar namesCarMonikerCarNamesMKZmodel nameModelNamenamingZephyrMon, 24 Jul 2006 12:04:00 EST<![CDATA[MKZ pricing gets premium over Lincoln Zephyr]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/04/26/mkz-pricing-gets-premium-over-lincoln-zephyr/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/04/26/mkz-pricing-gets-premium-over-lincoln-zephyr/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/04/26/mkz-pricing-gets-premium-over-lincoln-zephyr/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

When the MKZ replaces the Zephyr in Lincoln's lineup it will carry with it a higher price tag to offset the cost of additional features. Chief among the new hardware is Ford's new 3.5L V6 and six-speed tranny, both designed in-house. All-wheel drive and a nip-tuck up front also set the MKZ apart from the Zephyr.

The higher fee will likely help Lincoln move any remaining Zephyr's off the lot when the MKZ arrives, though we won't know the price difference between the two until closer to the MKZ's official launch. AutoWeek expects it to be around $2,000, which would raise the current car's sub-$30k price to around $32k.

The Zephyr has been doing very well for Lincoln, with sales on pace to reach 40,000 units in 2006. The MKZ addresses most of the Zephyr's flaws that were uncovered in our review of the sedan, so we would expect sales to hold steady or even increase despite the name change and price jump.

[Source: AutoWeek]

MKZ pricing gets premium over Lincoln Zephyr originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 26 Apr 2006 10:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AWDMKZprice hikePriceHikeV6ZephyrWed, 26 Apr 2006 10:34:00 EST