Lincoln isn’t inspiring many purchase decisions these days, as the luxury make sits in dead last in sales. That could change with the introduction of a few key products, starting with the 2013 Lincoln MKZ.

Ford marketing boss Jim Farley introduced the MKZ Concept at the Detroit Auto Show, and we very much like what we see. The concept, which should look a whole lot like the production model that goes on sale later this year, really pops on the elevated turn table. The rakish, full-length glass roof retracts so all four passengers can enjoy open air. We heard the word “bespoke” a few too many times during the presentation, but Lincoln promises a more individualized purchase and ownership experience.

Lead designer Max Wolff poured over the details of the luxurious interior, including unique stitching, individualized seating for four, push-button gear selector and a floating center stack that was inspired by modern suspension bridges. Wolff also pointed out that future Lincoln models will be designed at the automaker’s new design studio in Dearborn, which employs 180 dedicated designers and engineers.

We don’t have any information on powertrains, but we’re expecting the production car to be released with all the info at the New York Auto Show. Hit the jump to read over the Lincoln press release, and feel free to peruse the high-resolution images from the Detroit Auto Show.

Continue reading Lincoln MKZ Concept looks to kickstart brand renaissance

Lincoln MKZ Concept looks to kickstart brand renaissance originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 09:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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SsangYong has had a hard time of it of late, and its production vehicles tend to be more indifferent than inspired, but it can still rock a cool concept when it wishes. While the XIV-1 concept certainly isn’t the final word in madcap crossovers, to our eyes, it features a nice combination of lines and forms in two boxes.

The concept-car necessities of leather-lined clamshells for seats, intricate headlights derived from Korean masks and an “advanced user interface” make their appearances, certain to be bland-ified for production. But this design is the template for the rest of SsangYong’s coming lineup, so the wraparound glass, clean bodysides and wheels spread-eagled at the corners might have a fighting chance. Official press release details (which sadly lack any information on powertrain) are after the jump.

Continue reading SsangYong XIV-1 Concept shows brand still has a CUV pulse

SsangYong XIV-1 Concept shows brand still has a CUV pulse originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Sep 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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