FORD CANADA - Lincoln's MKT full-size crossover offers a dramatically improved ride, sharper handling, better fuel economy and new safety technologies including rear inflatable seat belts for the 2013 model year, providing customers benefits and features that match or exceed more expensive competitors.
NEW CHASSIS TECHNOLOGY
CONTINUOUSLY CONTROLLED DAMPING
Making a full-size crossover ride smoothly but handle well can be a real challenge.
"The 2013 MKT with Continuously Controlled Damping delivers a surprisingly vibrant blend of ride and handling. It's more than you'd expect from a full-size, three-row luxury crossover," said Scott Tobin, Director, Lincoln Product Development.
Continuously Controlled Damping (CCD) is fitted to all new 2013 Lincoln MKTs built for the Canadian market. The adjustable suspension enables a more confident driving experience that defines the Lincoln DNA balance of ride comfort and handling. Regardless of road conditions, drivers will enjoy a markedly smoother, more controlled ride because CCD is always tuning and refining the ride quality.
The fully integrated system delivers its on-road benefit by significantly expanding the chassis's capabilities compared to a chassis with nonadjustable struts and shock absorbers, known as dampers by chassis engineers.
REAL-TIME DAMPING
Compared to the fixed-rate damper standard on the 2012 MKT, the CCD damper on the 2013 MKT offers dramatically expanded control range. CCD utilizes 46 inputs to feed data to a sophisticated control unit that continuously monitors more than 23,000 packets of information per second.
The CCD control module reacts to the data by calculating the optimal damping force every 2 milliseconds or 500 times per second. Mechanical adjustments typically occur 20 times per second, but can be as rapid as 50 times per second. On average, large damper force adjustments (such as firm to soft) occur in just 11 milliseconds. For engineers, mechanical actions that occur in less than 13 milliseconds are considered real-time actions.
CCD constantly reads the road surface and continuously adjusts the suspension in real time within the three selectable ranges – Sport, Normal and Comfort. CCD operates so quickly that it can react pre-emptively.
CCD recognizes, for example, when the MKT is about to encounter a typical pothole. The system instantly tightens damper control to prevent the wheel and tire from crashing down into the full depth of the pothole. Typically, the damping rate increases by more than 150 per cent vs. the system's softest setting, helping to smooth out an otherwise harsh and jarring event. The system is so quick that inputs received at the front wheels are used to prepare the rear wheels to deliver a better driving experience.
"CCD is always active, refining the ride of the new MKT," said Brian Naspinsky, Lincoln Vehicle Integration engineer. "CCD helps reduce body roll by up to 20 per cent, making the MKT feel tighter and more buttoned down. Understeer on the MKT has been reduced by approximately 25 per cent, so the car feels more eager and ready to respond. Simultaneously, CCD also makes it possible to provide a smoother, more confident ride over virtually any road surface."
LINCOLN DRIVE CONTROL
Three distinct driving modes – Sport, Normal and Comfort – are easy to select using the MKT's new Lincoln Drive Control and the shift lever.
"The new system coordinates the performance of multiple adjustable systems – suspension, steering, engine and transmission – so that it's easy to use and enjoy," Tobin said.
Lincoln Drive Control enables drivers to change the driving personality of the MKT:
> Normal mode – When the gear selector is in Drive, Lincoln Drive Control delivers the ideal Lincoln ride, balancing comfort with confident control and handling. Many drivers will find this setting perfect for commuting and everyday driving. This mode provides an engaging drive experience and a direct connection to the road without sacrificing the expected comfort and smoothness
> Sport mode – When the gear selector is in Sport, Lincoln Drive Control transforms this crossover's personality into a more performance-oriented machine. The following systems change settings in Sport mode:
> The CCD suspension switches from operating in its normal range to its firmest sport range (25 to 30 per cent more control than Normal), emphasizing handling
> The electric power-assisted steering recalibrates to provide more road feel and greater steering effort
> The engine responds more directly to the driver's inputs
> The transmission upshifts at higher rpm, downshifts become more aggressive, and the transmission will hold gears longer and while in corners. Additionally, sixth gear is locked out
> Traction control and electronic stability control settings are also modified to allow more spirited driving
In addition to Normal and Sport, Lincoln Drive Control offers the Comfort mode. When drivers want the most relaxed driving experience, the Settings menu in MyLincoln Touch offers easy access to the Comfort mode.
The Comfort mode instructs the CCD suspension to run in its smoothest range. The dampers exert 10 to 15 per cent less control compared with Normal. The electric power-assisted steering system also reduces the effort needed to turn the wheel at low speeds, for example, as when parking.
POWERTRAIN
ENGINES AND TRANSMISSIONS
Engine: 3.7-litre V6 FWD
Horsepower: 300
Torque: 275 lb.-ft.
Projected Fuel Economy: 17 U.S.mpg / 25 U.S mpg
Engine: 3.5-litre EcoBoost V6 AWD
Horsepower: 355
Torque: 350 lb.-ft.
Projected Fuel Economy: 16 U.S.mpg / 22 U.S.mpg
Each engine equipped with six-speed automatic transmission; horsepower, torque and fuel economy projected
3.5-LITRE ECOBOOST V6
The standard MKT powertrain in Canada is now twin-turbo 3.5-litre EcoBoost V6, an engine that provides V8 performance with the fuel economy of a V6. In terms of horsepower in 3-row CUVs, the MKT fitted with EcoBoost has no direct competition.
"Especially with the 3.5-litre EcoBoost, the MKT delivers a 'wow' driving experience in a quiet, comfortable and distinctive crossover," said Elaine Bannon, MKT chief engineer.
The 3.5-litre gasoline turbo direct-injected (GTDI) engine produces 355 horsepower at 5,700 rpm and an expansive torque curve that plateaus at 350 lb.-ft. of torque from 1,500 to 5,250 rpm. The EcoBoost V6 earned a slot on Ward's 2010 "10 Best Engines" honoree list the year it was introduced.
EFFICIENT SIX-SPEED TRANSMISSIONS
Lincoln MKT is equipped with a six-speed SelectShift Automatic transmission, with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. This transmission features high-energy friction materials, a larger ring gear and a specific torque converter that optimize it specifically to handle the high-torque output of the twin-turbo 3.5-litre.
This gearbox offers the driver a choice between fully automatic operation and manual control. Intuitive to operate, a squeeze back on either paddle will deliver an upshift, while a gentle push forward on either paddle will induce a matched-rev downshift. Unlike some competitive transmissions, SelectShift won't second guess the driver with an override shift. The manual control is truly controlled by the driver.
ALL-WHEEL DRIVE
All-wheel drive is standard equipment on all Canadian MKTs. In good weather over smooth roads at modest speeds – when AWD is not needed – the system intelligently routes power only to the front wheels, improving fuel efficiency.
When driver input or road conditions indicate that slip might occur, the system sends power rearward to help prevent tire slip from happening in the first place (such as on rain-slicked or snow-covered roads).
A myriad of inputs enables the computer-controlled system to identify and immediately react – in as little as 16 milliseconds – to changing road conditions and driver demands. The amount of torque sent to the rear axle varies depending on road conditions and dynamic needs.
CHASSIS ENHANCEMENTS
STEERING
The steering system for the new MKT is improved, too. The gear ratio is quicker (15:1 for 2013 vs. 17.1:1 for 2012), making the steering more immediately responsive.
All new MKT models benefit from electric power-assisted steering. EPAS replaces the traditional hydraulic-assist power-steering pump with an electric motor. This helps save fuel because the motor operates only when assistance is required, unlike hydraulic systems that run continuously. EPAS was standard on 2010-12 MKT models with the 3.5-litre EcoBoost V6 and is now standard on all MKT models. The new EPAS parallels CCD in how it provides a tunable driving experience and an expanded range of adjustability.
Depending on model and the Lincoln Drive Control mode (if so equipped), steering response for the new MKT improved 10 to 25 per cent compared with 2012.
EPAS offers additional benefits. At lower speeds, such as when parking, EPAS provides additional boost for effortless maneuverability. At higher speeds, EPAS increases steering effort and feedback, giving drivers more precise steering control.
ACTIVE PARK ASSIST
EPAS is also the primary technology behind the MKT's class-exclusive active park assist (APA). Once engaged via the switch on the centre console, ultrasonic sensors precisely measure open spaces to find a suitable parallel parking spot. When engaged, the sensors measure spots and inform the driver of an appropriate spot. With a few actions, the MKT steers itself into the open space. The driver retains full control of throttle, brakes and shifting the entire time APA is engaged.
MORE CAPABLE BRAKING SYSTEM
To match the engine's extra power and the suspension's additional handling capabilities, Lincoln has significantly upgraded the MKT braking system for 2013. The new vented front discs measure 13.86 inches (352 millimeters), more than an inch larger than 2012. To enhance brake cooling, the "hat" portion of the front brake disc is also vented, a unique design developed by Ford Motor Company.
Additionally, the diameter of the rear discs increased 0.58 of an inch (15mm) to 13.58 inches (345mm) and the discs are now vented. Brake pad area and total swept area increased significantly, with each improvement working together to improve braking performance, reduce brake fade under heavy use and provide the driver with a more direct and linear braking feel.
NEW STYLING
The changes ensure a recognizable Lincoln family look going forward. The grille and front fascia all are new, as are the wheel selections.
"The effort behind the new look was to change the proportion of the MKT from the front view. We helped make it feel wider and a bit less tall, less vertical," said Max Wolff, Lincoln Design director. "The execution of the new MKT's grille and the grille bars is a lot more refined and elegant. The new front graphic displays a lot of three-dimensionality, but it's accomplished in a calmer, more restrained way."
THREE-ROW INTERIOR
Inside, functional, styling and safety updates transform the already distinctive and roomy interior of the new MKT into an even more welcoming, luxurious and technologically advanced space.
The significantly revised interior complements the airy feeling afforded by the standard Panoramic Fixed-glass Vista Roof.
The MKT offers three rows of seating configured in six- and seven-passenger alternatives. Highlighting the emphasis on first-class travel, those riding in the second row enjoy more legroom than any vehicle in this class. The second-row seats can also be heated and cooled. The second-row refrigerator (integrated into the centre console) remains a popular option.
MYLINCOLN TOUCH
Drivers particularly benefit from the latest upgrade of MyLincoln Touch hardware that equips the new MKT with Lincoln's most advanced HMI or Human-Machine Interface.
The all-new instrumentation features a central speedometer flanked by two full-colour reconfigurable LCD screens. The 4.2-inch LCD screens are controlled by five-way buttons on the steering wheel. The 8-inch multi-function LCD touch screen dominates the centre stack and provides the visual and control interface for the entertainment system, phone, navigation and climate control.
INFOTAINMENT SYSTEMS
MKT offers two audio systems, both controlled through MyLincoln Touch. The standard system includes AM/FM/CD/MP3/satellite sources playing through a 210-watt system that drives eight speakers.
The optional hardware is the THX II Certified Car Audio System that brings home-theater sound to the open road. The 700-watt system plays through 14 strategically aimed premium audio speakers. Sources include AM/FM/CD6/DVD/MP3/HD Radio plus an auxiliary input jack and a USB port. SiriusXM satellite radio with six-month prepaid subscription is standard.
MyLincoln Touch and SYNC enable available voice-activated navigation control.
CRAFTED, NATURAL, COMFORTABLE
Standard 12-way adjustable front seats, adjustable pedals and power tilt/telescoping steering wheel help accommodate a wide range of drivers.
The leather surfaces for the first two rows of seating are provided by the Bridge of Weir leather company. Sourced from Scotland, Bridge of Weir leather can also be found in luxury jets, yachts and covering fine furniture.
The company uses a unique organic tanning method, which produces leather free of chromium – making it one of the most environmentally friendly and fully recyclable leathers available. French and Deck seams add to the interior's high level of finish.
The seat cushions, head restraints and seat backs are made with soy foam, which has a lower environmental impact than petroleum-based foams. In addition, the soy-based materials deliver excellent performance and offer equivalent comfort and durability.
The heated steering wheel is a welcome new option for drivers who live in colder climates. A thin metal element under the wheel's leather-wrapped rim can raise the rim's surface temperature from minus 4 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 20 degrees Celsius) to 74F (23C) in five minutes.
Because interior quietness is a universal luxury cue, the 2013 MKT is significantly quieter than the 2012 model. Additional noise barriers and absorbers were placed in the front wheel wells, around the shock towers, under the hood and in the trunk. The exterior mirrors also were redesigned to reduce wind noise.
IMPROVED SYNC
SYNC
The next generation of the award-winning SYNC system continues to become easier to use and more robust in its operation. New, simpler screen designs improve the user interface. Larger and bolder fonts make screens easier to read. SYNC's voice recognition experience, powered by Nuance, also improves.
Microsoft's Windows Embedded Auto software platform continues to be the operating platform that will deliver faster response times. SYNC has evolved from a stand-alone module for communication and entertainment to become a fully integrated operating system for Lincoln vehicles with MyLincoln Touch.
SYNC also enables the interior of the MKT 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 gaming systems, PDAs, tablets and laptops.
OCCUPANT PROTECTION
INFLATABLE REAR BELTS
Second-row outboard passengers – often children or mature passengers – can benefit from available inflatable rear belts, a segment first.
These advanced restraints spread impact forces across more than five times the area of conventional safety belts, reducing pressure on the chest while helping to control head and neck motion.
DRIVER AIDS
DRIVER-ASSIST TECHNOLOGIES
The 2013 MKT offers a complete collection of driver assist technologies in addition to the array of six airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS), traction control and AdvanceTrac with RSC (Roll Stability Control).
Lincoln MKT earned a Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety for 2010 and 2011. To earn the ranking, a vehicle must receive a "good" (the best available) rating in all four of the institute's crash tests: front, side, rear and rollover, and have electronic stability control as an option. The MKT met all current requirements while offering much more technology to assist drivers.
CURVE CONTROL
Curve Control is a dynamic feature designed to help drivers maintain control if they inadvertently take a curve – such as a freeway off-ramp – too quickly. Curve Control senses when a vehicle is entering a curve too quickly, and can automatically apply the braking system to reduce vehicle speed by up to 16 km/h in approximately one second. The reduction in speed is often enough to help drivers follow their intended path.
LANE KEEPING SYSTEM
The newly available Lane Keeping System adds to the advanced capabilities already offered on MKT, including collision warning and BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) with cross-traffic alert.
Lane Keeping Alert helps drivers avoid leaving their lane unintentionally because of distraction or fatigue. When activated by the driver, Lane Keeping Alert utilizes a forward-facing mono-vision camera mounted behind the rearview mirror to begin looking for lane markers.
Above 64 km/h (40 mph), a control unit monitors the data and determines when the vehicle is wandering out of its lane. As the vehicle approaches the outer boundary of its lane, the system vibrates the steering wheel, cueing the driver to pay attention. Sensitivity settings are adjustable via MyLincoln Touch.
None of these technologies actively prevent lane departures. The responsibility for safe vehicle operation remains entirely the driver's responsibility.
Lane Keeping Alert remains dormant when the turn signal is activated or if the driver is engaged in an evasive maneuver.
It works in concert with Lane Keeping Aid. When activated, Lane Keeping Aid will add torque to the steering system to nudge the MKT back into the center of its lane if the driver drifts too close to the lane's edge and does not take the needed corrective steering action. The system includes the ability to sense if a driver is driving hands-free. A warning chime sounds to discourage system misuse.
Driver Alert is a third element of the Lane Keeping System. If the system detects a driving pattern consistent with a drowsy driver, a first-level chime will sound and a friendly suggestion of a coffee cup graphic will appear on the left-hand 4.2-inch instrument cluster LCD screen.
If the driver does not respond and the system continues to sense that the driver is fatigued, another warning and chime will occur. Drivers curious about their state of alertness can monitor their performance at any time.
COLLISION WARNING
Collision warning helps prevent common traffic accidents. Forward-looking, long-distance radar identifies potential obstacles. When the danger of a collision is detected, the system warns the driver with an authoritative beep and a simultaneous red warning light projected on the windshield.
These warnings should be enough to allow the driver to brake before the accident. Collision warning also provides brake support. This function enables harder, quicker deceleration to help drivers stop or reduce speed and lessen the collision impact.
ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL
Adaptive cruise control (ACC) is paired with collision warning because both utilize the forward-looking radar system. With a range up to 183 m (600 feet), ACC monitors and adjusts the speed of the MKT to keep it at a safe distance behind a lead vehicle in the same lane, even in fog or heavy rain.
The scanning radar unit and control module ignores stationary objects as it determines the closing rate toward the vehicle ahead to assess whether it is necessary to automatically adjust the engine throttle setting or engage the braking system.
With the capability to work at speeds as low as 32 km/h (20 mph), drivers can set the system to work during normal commuting, helping reduce driver fatigue. Three programmable system settings are accessed through MyLincoln Touch.
BLIND SPOT INFORMATION SYSTEM
The available Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with cross-traffic alert can detect vehicles in blind spots during normal driving and traffic approaching from the sides when reversing out of parking spots. BLIS uses radar to detect when another vehicle enters the defined blind spot zone. A light appears on the corresponding sideview mirror to indicate another vehicle is in the defined blind spot.
MYKEY
MyKey allows parents or other concerned owners to restrict certain Lincoln MKT features when in the hands of a MyKey driver. Parents simply program the vehicle key through the message center to incorporate features such as:
> Limited top speed of 130 km/h
> Traction control system that limits tire spin cannot be deactivated
> Audio system volume limited to 44 per cent of maximum volume
> A speed alert chime at 75, 90 or 105 km/h
LIVERY MODELS
CHAUFFEUR-DEDICATED EDITIONS
MKT also features two chauffeur-dedicated models – the 2013 Lincoln MKT Town Car Livery and Limousine.
The MKT Town Car offers a higher roofline, roomier, more sophisticated seating, a spacious trunk plus even easier passenger entry and exit. Two Town Car body styles include standard livery version with available all-wheel drive, and stretchable heavy-duty Limousine with standard all-wheel drive. The limo chassis accommodates stretches adding an additional 3048 mm (120 inches-10 feet).
MKT Town Car Livery model improves passenger comfort thanks to redesigned rear seating. Second-row seats have been repositioned rearward by 38 mm (1.5 inches) for additional legroom.
A switch on the rear passenger side door allows a rear seat passenger to control the front passenger seat, providing even more legroom. The three-person rear seat also reclines. The new MKT Town Car Livery model provides operators with 1121 litres (39.6 cubic feet) of cargo volume.
All commercial vehicles include comfortable and productive work environments for drivers and passengers. Standard technologies include SYNC, hands-free navigation, standard Wi-Fi capability and a rear view camera system.
ON SALE
The 2013 Lincoln MKT will be crafted in Oakville, Ontario, and is expected to arrive at Lincoln dealers this spring.