Lincoln MKZ 2013 production version revealed

Lincoln has officially released details of the production version of their all new 2013 MKZ sedan. It made its first appearance as a concept in January at the Detroit Auto Show and is due to debut at the 2012 New York Auto Show this week.

The MKZ will debut with three drivetrain options, the standard one being a turbocharged 2.0-litre EcoBoost 4-cylinder engine, producing 240 hp and 365 Nm of torque. More power will be available via a 3.7-litre V6 generating 300 hp and 375 Nm of torque. The MKZ Hybrid will be the third option and is claimed to offer a combined output of 188 hp from its 2.0-litre 4-cylinder and electric drivetrain.

Both the non-hybrid versions will be front-wheel-drive ans have an all-wheel-drive option, and will be driven by a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. The Hybrid however, is front-wheel-drive only, and will only be available with a CVT.

Overall, the design remains close to its concept, except for the addition of larger door handles and side mirrors. As usual, the interior will be covered in leather and wood with metal accents to come to par with its business-class competitors.

The MKZ will be available with SYNC and MyLincoln Touch as standard, along with large 10.1-inch LCD instrument cluster and an 8-inch centre touchscreen.

As for safety, there is a mono-vision camera integrated into the rearview mirror to read lane markers on the road. It will be complemented by radar sensors for the adaptive cruise control and active Collision Warning with Brake Support. Also included are wide-angle radar sensors for help with parking and backing up. It will also sport inflatable second-row seatbelts and eight airbags.

So far, no official release date has been stated for the vehicle, but it is expected to make it to U.S. showrooms sometime later this year, or by early 2013. It is unknown if the car will be offered in the GCC, given the limited success, or lack of it rather, of the brand here.