D'oh! Lincoln MKZ Concept up in Smoke at the Detroit Auto Show

There's a reason why the crowds aren't allowed to touch most concepts and prototypes, let alone take them for a spin. With a few exceptions, these models are created purely for show and lack the painstaking attention to detail under the skin found on production vehicles.

But while a mishap is understandable and perhaps even excusable, it's also hugely embarrassing -no matter how small it is- when it happens to a vehicle like the Lincoln MKZ Concept with which Ford itself says it's not only introducing a new car but "essentially a new brand". Even more so when the incident occurs at the largest auto show in North America…

To make matters worse, Detroit's Free Press was on hand to film the smoke coming from the MKZ (or at least that's what it looks like in the video). Hop over the break to watch the clip.

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New Lincoln MKZ Concept Previews Production Model and New Design Language [Updated]

The problematic luxury child of the Ford Motor group is trying to recuperate from years of neglect with a fresh concept model that not only previews the next MKZ mid-size sedan due in dealerships later this year but also serves as a vision of Lincoln's next-generation vehicles.

Of course, those of you that have been following the automotive industry will know that this is not the first time that Ford has attempted to rejuvenate its luxury brand. All the same, the Blue Oval claims that the MKZ Concept, which debuts at the 2012 Detroit Motor Show, marks a new era for Lincoln.

“With the Lincoln MKZ Concept, we are not introducing a new car. We are essentially introducing a new brand,” said Derrick Kuzak, Ford's vice president for global product development. “The MKZ Concept is the next step in the reinvention of Lincoln, something we’ve been quietly but aggressively pursuing.”

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2012 NAIAS: Early Reveal for Lincoln MKZ Concept

The same people that brought us an early glimpse of the 2013 Ford Fusion sedan over the weekend are further testing the Blue Oval's patience by dropping pictures of the Lincoln MKZ concept model ahead of its planned world premiere in Detroit on Tuesday morning.

The conceptual MKZ appears to be a little bit more study than what we were expecting given that its role is to preview the production model that will be unveiled withing the next year or so.

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Lincoln Teases its MKZ Concept Ahead of the Detroit Motor Show

Whereas Ford will be revealing the production version of the 2013 Fusion sedan at the Detroit Auto Show on Monday, its premium brand Lincoln will debut a concept of the next generation MKZ sedan.

The current model is heavily based on the soon-to-be replaced Ford Fusion and that won't change with the new MKZ. What Lincolns promises, however, is that its lowest priced sedan will have a more unique design inside and out.

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Lincoln to Reinvent itself with New MKZ Sedan Concept at the Detroit Auto Show

Another auto show another promise from Ford to reignite interest in its underperforming Lincoln brand. This time the place is the upcoming 2012 Detroit Motor Show and the product is a concept model that will preview the next generation of Lincoln's MKZ mid-size sedan.

Along with the new study, Ford says it plans to highlight the relaunch of its struggling luxury brand with a new display area at the Cobo Center in Detroit, which will be 50 percent larger than last year and feature an art gallery with art and decor by artist Chuck Hoberman.

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Lincoln Touts All-Wheel Drive Sales in the USA

Not to be outdone by GM and its Cadillac brand, which had recently published some fresh statistics about its all-wheel drive model sales in the States, Ford’s Lincoln division came out with a similar announcement to increase awareness and do some show off. Ford’s premium brand offers all-wheel drive as an option on all five models of its range, including the MKT, MKS, MKZ, MKX and the Navigator. Read more »

2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid Priced the Same as V6 at $35,180

Lincoln won't be subjecting buyers to a premium price for fuel-efficiency when its 2011 MKZ Hybrid hits showrooms this fall as the hybrid sedan will be offered at the same base price as its conventional V6 gasoline sibling, with an MSRP starting at $35,180 including destination and delivery.

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Lincoln Concept Models Including MK9 and Mark X Going up for Auction

If you're looking to add a Lincoln concept model to your collection, here's your chance as a total of five design studies from the past decade will be offered for sale by Ford Motor Company at the RM's Sports & Classics of Monterey auction on August 12th. The proceeds raised through the sale will benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and The Children's Center, an organization that is based in Michigan, USA.

The five Lincoln concept models up for sale are the 2001 MK9 coupe; 2004 Aviator SUV; 2005 MKS sedan; 2003 Navicross coupe crossover and last but not least, the Mark X which was a hardtop-convertible proposal for Lincoln's version of the Ford Thunderbird.

Bear in mind that even though all cars except the Navicross have are drivable, none can be registered for highway use in the States. Follow the break for a short description (from RM) and pricing estimates for each concept model.

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2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid EPA Rated at 41mpg City and 36mpg Highway, Beats Lexus' HS 250h

The updated 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid sedan has received an EPA-certified 41 mpg rating in city driving and 36 mpg on the highway making it, according to FoMoCo, the most fuel efficient "luxury sedan" in the U.S, topping the Lexus HS 250h that returns 35mpg in the city and 34mpg on the highway.

Not surprisingly, the MKZ Hybrid's fuel economy figures are identical to its sister-model, the Ford Fusion Hybrid, which we assume is "America's most fuel-efficient mainstream sedan"[...].

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NY Show: 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid Returns 41mpg in the City

Following in the footsteps of its Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan siblings, the Lincoln MKZ will be offered with FoMoCo's new hybrid powertrain that comprises of a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine and an electric motor that churn out a combined output of 191HP.

Lincoln's first-ever hybrid model is expected to deliver at least 41mpg (5.7 lt/100km) in the city and reach speeds of up to 47 mph (75 km/h) in pure electric mode.

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Lincoln to Reveal MKZ Hybrid at this Week's New York Auto Show

The Detroit News reports that FoMoCo will be revealing the MKZ Hybrid in New York, the Blue Oval's "first luxury hybrid".What you can expect is a Ford Fusion (or Mercury Milan), but with whatever passes for upscale Lincoln trim.

Chris Lemley, owner of dealerships in the Boston metro area, says, "I thought they should have done it before." Obviously, but as for getting people out of Lexus dealerships and onto Lincoln lots, "It depends on how fast they can get it to us...I'm also hoping that it will be priced competitively."

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Lincoln to Bring Custom MKS, MKT and MKZ to 2009 SEMA Show

In an attempt to show a sportier and more unconventional side of its Lincoln branded cars, parent company Ford will be displaying a trio of customized versions of its MKS flagship sedan, MKT crossover and MKZ saloon at next month's 2009 SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) Show in Las Vegas. The three bespoke project cars were developed in cooperation with Raceskinz, Rick Bottom Designs and 3dCarbon respectively.

"Lincoln as a brand is continuing to attract younger customers to the showroom with products like the MKS, MKZ and the new MKT luxury crossover," said Amy Marentic, Ford North American Car and Crossovers group marketing manager. "These customers place huge importance on style, design and technology, and these are areas where Lincoln plays well. SEMA gives customizers the opportunity to push the boundaries of design, while still focusing on the core strengths of the Lincoln brand."

Lincoln's Project Car at this year's SEMA Show [From Press Release]

2009 Lincoln MKS by Raceskinz

The Lincoln MKS Elite is a perfect example of what happens when you merge beauty and technology. Raceskinz is generous with the use of carbon fiber inside and out.

And with its high-powered LIIV entertainment system, Raceskinz makes sure its occupants stay connected to the world in style.

2010 Lincoln MKT "Panache" by Rick Bottom Designs

Luxury and high style abound in this flamboyant custom vehicle by Rick Bottom. The exterior has been shaved of its door handles, antenna and rear reflectors. A custom-made beltline molding in chrome further accents the body line.

Art and science combine for the striking paint treatment. Interior ambience is enhanced with two-toned leather and matching floating armrests. The audio system is powerful and tuned for ultimate sound quality, and the navigation system directs your travels.

2010 Lincoln MKZ by 3dCarbon

The refinement and elegance of the 2010 Lincoln MKZ inspired this look by 3dCarbon, which adds a unique touch to Lincoln's American style.

It's a realistic and beautiful take on a new classic Lincoln car.

2010 Lincoln MKZ Prices Announced, Starts Under $35k

The redesigned 2010 Lincoln MKZ sedan will be arriving in FoMoCo's dealer showrooms with a starting price of $34,965 for the front-wheel drive model and $36,855 for the all-wheel drive version. Pricing on both models includes destination and delivery. The stylistically refreshed MKZ is powered by the same 3.5-liter Duratec V6 with 263 horsepower and 249 pounds-feet of torque as the 2008MY, however in addition to the 6-speed autobox, it can now also be combined with a six-speed SelectShift automatic transmission.

Standard luxury features include "Bridge of Weir" leather seats, genuine wood trim, heated and cooled front seats, the SYNC entertainment and connectivity system, a reverse sensing system and driver multi-adjustable power seat.

Buyers who want sportier looks and ride can opt for the Sport Appearance Package, which is new for the 2010 model year. The package includes a sport suspension tuning with stiffer springs and larger stabilizer bars; 18-inch polished alloy wheels; unique grille, body-color door handles and darkened headlamps; and an interior with tuxedo seam seat patterns, contrasting piping, upgraded floor mats and aluminum 'appliqués'.