New for 2017
The Continental is an all-new model.
A Legend Returns
The Continental name is probably the most hallowed in Lincoln’s history, and it’s coming back for 2017. The revitalized Continental aims to help restore Lincoln’s credibility as a luxury brand, rather than just an outlet for upscale Ford-based models. It debuts Lincoln’s new design language, and brings a bevy of powerful engines and impressive luxury features to the party.
Performance
In order to make the 2017 Continental worthy of the name, Lincoln needed to give it powertrains capable of propelling the car across continents, and a chassis that would give occupants a comfortable ride along the way. Lincoln offers three engine options, all with six-speed automatic transmissions and either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
The base engine is a 3.7-liter V6 that produces 305 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. It returns an EPA-rated 20 mpg combined (17 mg city, 26 mpg highway)* with front-wheel drive, and 19 mpg combined (16 mpg city, 24 mpg highway)* with all-wheel drive.
Lincoln also offers a pair of twin-turbocharged V6 engines. The 2.7-liter version musters 335 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque. It gets 21 mpg combined (18 mpg city, 27 mpg highway)* with front-wheel drive, and 20 mpg combined (17 mpg city, 25 mpg highway)* with all-wheel drive. The 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 produces a mighty 400 hp and 400 lb-ft. Available only with all-wheel drive, it also gets an EPA-rated 19 mpg combined (16 mpg city, 24 mpg highway).*
The Continental’s all-wheel drive system uses Dynamic Torque Vectoring, which shifts power between the rear wheels to improve responsiveness during cornering. Lincoln Drive Control includes three settings—comfort, normal, and sport—that adjust steering and suspension settings for different conditions. Lincoln also offers adaptive steering, which can change the rate of assistance to suit different situations.
Features
The 2017 Lincoln Continental is a four-door, five-seat luxury sedan. It’s available in three trim levels, priced starting at $44,560.**
Standard equipment on the Premiere model includes adaptive bi-functional HID headlights with LED daytime running lights, LED taillights, 10-way heated power front seats with lumbar support, SYNC® 3 infotainment system with 8.0-inch touchscreen, 10-speaker audio system, ambient lighting, 18-inch aluminum wheels, power tilt/telescoping steering column, and more.
The Continental Select model builds on the Premiere, adding features like Bridge of Weir leather seats, hands-free power trunk lid, two rear USB ports, and 19-inch wheels. The Reserve model adds even more standard equipment, including 24-way heated and cooled front seats with power thigh extender and headrest, navigation, tri-zone automatic climate control, and more.
In addition to the standard equipment, Lincoln offers a wide array of options. The list includes everything from 20-inch wheels and LED headlights, to a 19-speaker Revel Ultima® audio system and reclining power rear seats. The Continental is also available with Lincoln’s Black Label trim, with three design themes that each feature unique style and a higher level of interior materials.
Design
As Lincoln’s new flagship sedan, the Continental debuts a new design language for the Ford luxury brand. The production-ready design is almost unchanged from the Continental concept that made waves at the 2015 New York Auto Show, and its handsome elements have already been adapted to the Lincoln MKZ sedan.
The Continental’s fresh look starts up front, with a new grille and headlights that feature a repeating graphic based on Lincoln’s badge. The large rectangular grille and emphasis on horizontal lines give the Continental a refined look, while subtle side sculpting adds a bit of muscle. The door handles are integrated with the beltline for a cleaner appearance that’s also very distinctive.
As for the interior, Lincoln promises that the Continental is as nice to ride in as it is to drive. Available Perfect Position front seats provide ample support and can be adjusted up to 30 ways. Active Noise Cancellation keeps the cabin nice and serene by canceling out unwanted noises with opposing sound waves. A rear center console with audio and climate controls and reclining seats are a great option for people getting chauffeured.
Lincoln pays attention to the details. The optional 19-speaker Revel Ultima® audio system features beautiful speaker grilles, and the available interior trim includes the same Bridge of Weir leather Lincoln has used since the 1950s. The Continental is also available with three Black Label design themes—Chalet, Thoroughbred, and Rhapsody—that bring unique style to the cabin.
Safety
Standard safety equipment on the 2017 Lincoln Continental includes anti-lock brakes, stability and traction controls, rearview camera, SOS Post-Crash Alert System, and a full array of airbags. Optional features include a 360-degree camera system, active park assist, lane keep assist, driver alert monitor, adaptive cruise control, pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, and blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.
Verdict
The 2017 Continental is an exquisitely-designed, feature-rich sedan that emphasizes Lincoln’s position as a top luxury brand.
Be sure to contact us online or visit 3Birds Template at 505 W. Franklin St., Chapel Hill, NC 27516 to schedule a test drive.
*EPA-estimated city/hwy mpg. See fueleconomy.gov for fuel economy of other engine/transmission combinations. Actual mileage will vary.
**Base MSRP and base plus package price exclude destination/delivery charge, taxes, title and registration. Optional equipment not included. A, Z and X Plan prices are for qualified customers and exclude document fee, destination/delivery charge taxes, title and registration. Not all vehicles qualify for A, Z or X Plan.
Image: Lincoln
