Lincoln MKR Concept, Unleashed

This week’s North American International Auto Show in Detroit has something exquisite to offer – all-new Lincoln MKR, a four-door four-seater coupe concept. Said vehicle hold the key to the future of automaker’s design. The automaker likened the model to “a train of an elegant gown.”

According to Peter Horbury, Ford's head of design for the Americas, Lincoln designers will choose from these seven defining Lincoln characteristics to create a family resemblance among the brand's vehicles. Sometimes, designers will use three of the magic seven elements. Sometimes they will use five. Or more. Or less. The 415-horsepower, rear-drive Lincoln MKR show car uses all seven of 'em.

Lincoln MKR shares the D2C platform with Ford Mustang. TwinForce engine family is introduced in the car. The engine is a 3.5L engine twin-turbo, direct-injection gasoline V6, which is also capable of running on bioethanol. It produces 415 horsepower and 400 pound-feet if torque.

"The Lincoln MKR Concept is sophisticated and modern, resembling an athlete — extremely strong and fit but looks elegant in a tuxedo," said Horbury. "This concept is the ultimate expression of elegant simplicity consistent with the world's best Lincolns, and this new design language will lead us forward in the growing premium segment."

The 7 magnificent design features of MKR are: 1. clean and uncluttered body surfaces; 2. dynamic beltline; 3. surface running parallel to the beltline; 4. a twin-port "bow-wave" front grille inspired by the 1941 Continental Cabriolet; 5. stunning headlamps; 6. a substantial C-pillar that smoothly transitions into the roof; and 7. a pronounced roof rail.

The concept car is also equipped with Lincoln independent rear suspension mated to MacPherson struts. With regards, the interior of the car, the concept made use of environmentally-friendly and renewable materials that include cashmere leather, mohair carpet, oak instrument panel and seat cushion. THX-II is also featured in the car. Said feature is the trade name for hi-fi sound system reproduction that is recommended for theaters, car audio systems, gaming consoles, and more.

The next flagship sedan of Lincoln is the production version of MKS, which uses upgraded Lincoln LS 2002 parts. It will make its debut in 2008. The flagship sedan is greatly influenced by the MKR concept.

Pamela Hewitt is marketing consultant of a successful auto body shop in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This 39 year old is also a prolific writer, contributing automotive related articles to various publications. She is also an offroad enthusiast.