PEBBLE BEACH, California — Lincoln said on Friday that it has decided to build a production version of its MKT concept. The production Lincoln MKT, a sexier sibling to the boxy Ford Flex, will compete against such foreign stalwarts as the Acura MDX and the Audi Q7.
In a statement, Lincoln said that the seven-passenger MKT will arrive in showrooms sometime in 2009, along with an upgraded Lincoln MKZ midsize sedan, plus an additional version of the Lincoln MKS powered by an EcoBoost engine. The MKT will be offered with the EcoBoost engine and a six-speed transmission.
EcoBoost, a family of four-cylinder and six-cylinder engines, is Ford's answer to hybrids and diesel-powered vehicles. It uses gasoline turbocharged direct-injection technology for up to 20 percent better fuel efficiency and lower emissions. EcoBoost is set to make its debut in the Lincoln MKS in 2009. Lincoln did not spell out powertrain specifications for its production MKT, however.
The production MKT doesn't stray too far from its concept counterpart in the design department. Lincoln pointed out that the MKT will feature the bow-wave, double-wing grille, beefy D-pillar and striking roof rail.
Lincoln has not yet announced pricing on the MKT, but Ford insiders say it should be competitive against the Acura MDX, which starts at $41,550, including a $760 destination charge.
What this means to you: Lincoln continues to round out its product portfolio, making a major move into the crossover arena with the MKT. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent
In a statement, Lincoln said that the seven-passenger MKT will arrive in showrooms sometime in 2009, along with an upgraded Lincoln MKZ midsize sedan, plus an additional version of the Lincoln MKS powered by an EcoBoost engine. The MKT will be offered with the EcoBoost engine and a six-speed transmission.
EcoBoost, a family of four-cylinder and six-cylinder engines, is Ford's answer to hybrids and diesel-powered vehicles. It uses gasoline turbocharged direct-injection technology for up to 20 percent better fuel efficiency and lower emissions. EcoBoost is set to make its debut in the Lincoln MKS in 2009. Lincoln did not spell out powertrain specifications for its production MKT, however.
The production MKT doesn't stray too far from its concept counterpart in the design department. Lincoln pointed out that the MKT will feature the bow-wave, double-wing grille, beefy D-pillar and striking roof rail.
Lincoln has not yet announced pricing on the MKT, but Ford insiders say it should be competitive against the Acura MDX, which starts at $41,550, including a $760 destination charge.
What this means to you: Lincoln continues to round out its product portfolio, making a major move into the crossover arena with the MKT. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent
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