 2013 Lincoln MKS. Click image to enlarge |
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By Paul Williams; photos courtesy of Ford Motor Company of Canada
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2013 Lincoln MKS
Los Angeles, California – Over the past decade or so, the Lincoln brand has been something of a puzzle to auto journalists and consumers alike. There was a lot of hoopla around the turn of the century with the LS line, then not so much; then, a revised look with the introduction of the MKS sedan and MKX crossover, then again, not so much.
It’s like the brand can’t quite find its footing, and part of that has to do with not being able to settle on styling.
The “waterfall” grille, introduced in 2010 on the MKT full-size crossover seems to have some legs, though. Not only that, the look is evolving into a distinctive and appealing design across the Lincoln line.
  2013 Lincoln MKS. Click image to enlarge |
The full-size 2013 Lincoln MKS sedan is a case in point. Introduced at this year’s Los Angeles Auto Show, every exterior surface from the A-pillar forward is new. The grille is not quite so dominant, but still has presence, and the HID headlamp treatment, new hood, fenders and front fascia complete the revised “face” of this car. At the rear, there is likewise a new fascia, LED tail lamps, exhaust time and a new decklid. New 19-inch and 20-inch wheels complete the styling changes.
The revisions (and improvements) continue inside, with the former “linear and horizontal” look replaced with sweeping and more organic forms. Apparently this is a look that will be seen throughout the Lincoln line-up. It looks more luxurious and more successfully distinguishes a Lincoln from a Ford.
Under the sheetmetal, the range of improvements and enhancements continue. The MKS features Continuously Controlled Damping (CCD) as standard equipment, permitting drivers to select a “Comfort” or “Sport” setting, depending on preference. Handling and throttle response are also changed via the Lincoln Drive Control system.
Horsepower from the standard 3.7-litre V6 engine is up, from the 2012’s 274 hp to 300 for the 2013, and fuel economy is improved by nine per cent. The 3.5-litre “Ecoboost” V6 continues as an option, making 355 hp. All-wheel drive continues as a standard feature of the “Ecoboost” MKT, and optional with the 3.7-litre engine.
Complementing the additional power from the standard engine, the MKS braking system will be upgraded for 2013. New, larger, vented front discs measure 353 millimeters in diameter, and the rear discs, now also vented, increase to 345 mm.
Steering for the 2013 MKS receives a quicker ratio, from 17.1:1 down to 15.1:1, and the system will feature electric power-assist steering (EPAS) for improved fuel economy and better response. EPAS is the primary technology behind the optional Active Park Assist.
 2013 Lincoln MKS. Click image to enlarge |
The 2013 Lincoln MKS will feature the next generation of the SYNC communications system. The MKS provides “Operator Assist” as a standard SYNC feature, allowing users to connect with a live person free of charge. Additionally (and interestingly) SYNC enables the interior of the MKS to become a Wi-Fi hot spot when linked to a data-enabled cellular device. With active Wi-Fi, passengers can link to the Web on their tablets or laptops.
New for the 2013 MKS is a Lane Keeping System that works with its driver assist technologies. Coupled to the Lane Keeping System is an Alert and an Aid. The Lane Keeping Alert system subtly adds torque to the steering wheel if the driver begins to wander out of a lane (due to distraction, tiredness). The system is dormant when the turn signals are operated or when the driver is engaged in evasive manoeuvres.
Also new are a heated steering wheel option, new colours for the leather upholstery and new woods for the trim packages (Prussian Burl and Brown Swirl Walnut). These are natural woods, and while consistent from vehicle-to-vehicle, no two Lincoln interiors equipped with this option possess exactly the same grain pattern.
 2013 Lincoln MKS. Click image to enlarge |
An interesting option is the new multi-contour seat that incorporates seven computer-controlled air bladders for maximum adjustment. Four sections in the seat bottom and three in the seat back can be adjusted, with driver and passenger seats featuring static and massage settings.
The leather upholstery is supplied by the Bridge of Weir leather company, with hides sources from Scotland. This company also supplies leather to makers of luxury jets, yachts and furniture. The leathers are tanned using organic methods, producing a material free of chromium, and the seat cushions, head restraints and seat backs are made with soy-based materials, rather than petroleum-based. The interiors are therefore environmentally friendly and fully recyclable, while, according to Lincoln, remaining comfortable and durable.
The above changes definitely appear to elevate the model. Many of the changes for 2013 are obvious upon inspection, but driving impressions will have to wait until the vehicle is formally launched in 2012.
