Hello Mr. Lincoln

Lincoln, meet the new Lincoln

While 2012 was a big year for Lincoln (the former President managed to land two movies – “Lincoln: Vampire Hunter” and the more prestigious “Lincoln” from Steven Spielberg), Lincoln is hoping for another good return in 2013. Of course, I am talking about the folks over at Ford who will begin rolling out their newly designed Lincolns after newly two years of work.

Some of the changes on the 2013 Lincoln MKZ include all-new sheet metal, a choice of gasoline or hybrid power trains, a raft of cutting-edge technologies, and will offer features like adaptive headlamps, a retractable panoramic glass roof and active noise control, as well as the latest version of Ford's Sync infotainment system with ”MyLincoln Touch”. You have a choice in your engine as well. There is a 240-horsepower 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder and a 300-hp 3.7-liter V6, both coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and a new push-button gear selector that replaces the conventional gearshift lever. Either engine can be ordered with front- or all-wheel drive.

The MKZ Hybrid combines an electric motor with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder gas engine and is coupled with a continuously variable automatic transmission.

2013 Lincoln MKZ

Of course, the Lincoln MKZ will have the latest in safety features. Standard and available systems include Lane Keeping Aid, Lane Keeping Alert, Driver Assist, Active Park Assist, a Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert, Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision Warning with Brake Support. Another exclusive option is inflatable rear seatbelts. I had not heard of the “Lane Keeping” technology before, but it is very innovative (some of that technology that makes you scratch your head, but in the end you just accept that it works and that’s all that matters).

Ford introduced this technology in 2012 with the Ford Explorers. The Lane Keeping Systems can help detect drowsy drivers and help them stay alert and in their lane. The technology’s Driver Alert System monitors the vehicle’s lane position and can notify a driver of signs of inattentiveness with a coffee cup warning light that appears on the dashboard. Too bad it doesn’t dispense a nice, not cup of Dunkins coffee too…perhaps one day. Regardless, this type of technology is quite innovative and has great potential. Beyond technology, there has been a extensive redesign of the cabin which now includes premium-grade leather with wood trim, a new instrument panel, a multilevel console, a pair of LCD screens, air filtration and a choice of entertainment systems, including a 700-watt THX II audio system with 14 speakers. Only time will tell if the new design will take off, but I imagine everyone will be interested in a look and a test drive. Reedman Toll Lincoln Dealer would be the best place to go and check out the new MKZ as well as the other updated designs in the Lincoln lineup.

Here is a look at the "Lane Keeping Technology" as well: