Lincoln to change Zephyr to Mark Z in 07
02-07-06 | 12:00 AM
#1
Thread Starter
Speaks French in Russian
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 13,303
Likes: 65
From: What is G?
Lincoln to change Zephyr to Mark Z in 07
For 2007, the Lincoln Zephyr gets a name-change in line with the new Lincoln naming system, a new front and rear fascia (basically a revision of the bumpers to be a little more pronounced/aggressive), a new standard 3.5L 250hp V6 engine, as well as an optional AWD system. But at its core, its just the now faster and more agile Lincoln Zephyr we've all come to love or hate.
02-07-06 | 12:15 AM
#3
Thread Starter
Speaks French in Russian
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 13,303
Likes: 65
From: What is G?
LINCOLN MKZ: MIDSIZE LUXURY SEDAN RECEIVES POWER UPGRADE, AWD AND A FRESH FACE
Entry-level Lincoln: Attracting a new generation of luxury customers to the Lincoln showroom
Power and performance: More powerful, efficient, 250 horsepower 3.5-liter V-6 paired with a smooth-shifting 6-speed transmission; more engaging, performance oriented driving character; added confidence of available intelligent all-wheel drive.
Added confidence: Available intelligent all-wheel drive (AWD)
Hallmarks of luxury: Refined waterfall grille and front fascia; new 17-inch, 8-spoke, machined aluminum wheels; available THX® II Certified audio system and SIRIUS satellite radio
LUXURY SEDAN REBORN
Following the strong sales launch of the Lincoln Zephyr in the autumn of 2005, the entry-level luxury sedan is reborn for the 2007 model year with a new, more powerful 3.5-liter V-6 engine, a newly designed front end, more traction with available all-wheel drive (AWD) and a new name – Lincoln MKZ.
"Customer demand for Lincoln’s mid-size luxury sedan has exceeded our expectations," says Al Giombetti, president, Ford, Lincoln Mercury Marketing and Sales. "We have taken a brand-new, well-received car and significantly improved it to draw a new generation of customers to the Lincoln brand." Lincoln Zephyr has become an immediate sales success. "Judging by reaction in the showroom, customers are clearly ready for an American entry-level luxury sedan," Giombetti says.
POWERFUL NEW V-6 ENGINE DESIGNED TO DELIVER
Ford Motor Company’s all-new Duratec 35 V-6 engine paired with a premium 6-speed transmission delivers 250 horsepower and 240 pounds-foot of torque. The result will be smooth power and a confident, comfortable ride.
"Our new 3.5-liter V-6 coupled with an advanced 6-speed automatic provides an innovative solution for better fuel efficiency, more refinement, more power and clean emissions, without any sacrifices," says Barb Samardzich, Ford vice president of Powertrain Operations.
A strong, lightweight die-cast aluminum block and lightweight 4-valve direct-acting, mechanical-bucket valve train provide smooth, refined operation at high engine speeds. The intake was designed as a system all the way from the throttle body to the intake valves. This incorporates a dual-plenum intake manifold and intake variable cam timing to help ensure a smooth idle and broad torque curve for improved power. A 10.3:1 compression ratio and improved close-coupled catalysts reduce emissions.
The Lincoln MKZ is able to respond readily to its driver’s demands, thanks to the premium 6-speed automatic transmission. A torque-based electronic throttle control works with the electronically controlled transmission by adjusting throttle plate movement to tailor torque to the timing of each shift. In this way, the transmission is able to deliver smooth, barely perceptible gear changes.
CLASSIC, UNDERSTATED ELEGANCE
The exterior design of Lincoln MKZ incorporates classic elements of Lincoln style that have become essential to the visual heritage of the brand. Further refinement of Lincoln’s traditional waterfall grille, additional bright work and distinctive lighting gives the Lincoln MKZ an even more distinctive look.
The Lincoln MKZ’s profile features chromed trim at the beltline and on the mirror caps, set off by the wheels. The 17-inch alloy wheels are an important design element, available with a machined-aluminum appearance or a new chromed-aluminum finish. Low-profile tires reinforce the low, purposeful stance of the car.
The rear bumper surface is nearly flush, contributing to the clean, uncluttered lines. Twin chrome-tipped tailpipes are set wide apart below thin horizontal reflectors in the lower fascia, similar in placement to the front fog lamps. Together, the flush bumper and chrome-tipped dual exhaust communicate a subtle athleticism.
INSIDE: UNPRETENTIOUS LUXURY
The Lincoln MKZ uses genuine materials, including real wood, high-quality leather, satin nickel and chromed trim. White electro-luminescent lighting illuminates the round, chrome-ringed gauges, complementing the interior’s white lighting, which uses white light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to backlight controls and switches at night.
The instrument panel features a horizontal band of contrasting trim in either wood or satin nickel, which gives the interior a more "technical" appearance. When equipped with wood, interior choices are: Dark Charcoal or Light Stone with Ebony wood or Sand with Figured Maple wood.
"The figured maple gives the interior a fresh and exciting look," says Peter Horbury, executive director, North American Design. "The dark ebony is classic elegance for a traditional sense of luxury. The satin nickel, with its lightly raised ribbing, is technical and modern. We were able to establish three completely different ambient settings through use of these materials."
The Lincoln MKZ is designed for comfort, too, with more than three feet of rear-passenger legroom. The spacious feel of the cabin was achieved by stretching the width of the base architecture by 30 millimeters and the wheelbase by 55 millimeters.
The Lincoln MKZ features a large 15.8-cubic-foot trunk (largest trunk in its class) with a flat load floor and a low lift-over height. The deck lid has compact hinge mechanisms that won’t impinge on trunk volume or crush cargo. The rear seats feature class exclusive standard 60/40-split backs that individually fold flat with a convenient spring assist, giving access to the trunk and affording cavernous storage space.
Thanks to a rigid and robust structure, the quiet interior is the perfect environment for the industry’s first THX® II Certified audio system. Optional on the Lincoln MKZ, the system features surround-sound worthy of an upscale cinema. The system features 14 speakers, including two subwoofers with 600 watts of power and a sophisticated processor that inputs bandwidth, peak audio levels and coverage uniformity to deliver a smooth spectral balance and wide dynamic range. An MP3 audio input jack and factory-installed SIRIUS satellite radio are also available.
To ensure that drivers and passengers always travel with the right directions, a new DVD-based navigation system is optional and features a sharp 6.5-inch-wide screen and text-to-speech technology with travel directions in English, Spanish or French.
QUIET RIDE, NIMBLE HANDLING, AVAILABLE ALL-WHEEL DRIVE
Lincoln MKZ’s chassis is tuned for a quiet, comfortable ride with confident, responsive handling. All aspects of the fully independent suspension – dampers, spring rates and bushings – have been specially selected and tuned with an emphasis on ride comfort without sacrificing precise and nimble response.
The standard 17-inch tires were selected to complement the suspension tuning and for their quiet tread design. The rack-and-pinion steering system was tuned to be in harmony with the suspension and tires. Utilizing the car’s stiff structure, the Lincoln MKZ mounts the steering gear to the front perimeter subframe for reduced noise and vibration. This lets the driver better experience the car’s relationship to the road via the steering wheel, whether it’s a parking maneuver or a high-speed lane change.
The available intelligent all-wheel-drive (AWD) system is tuned with an emphasis on luxury performance and confident all-weather driving. The system actively and seamlessly delivers torque to all four wheels, even before wheel slippage occurs. An active on-demand coupler delivers the precise amount of torque needed to the rear wheels. Paired with available traction control, intelligent AWD can transfer torque front-to-rear and side-to-side.
SAFETY: THE ESSENTIAL LUXURY
Lincoln MKZ features a number of highly advanced safety technologies. It was designed with Ford’s Personal Safety System™ and a body structure optimized to help manage energy in a crash.
Lincoln MKZ’s safety system includes standard driver and front passenger air bags, seat-deployed side air bags for thorax protection, and three-point safety belts at all seating positions, with front-seat pretensioners and retractors. A full-length safety curtain provides head protection over the length of the window glass area – from A-pillar to C-pillar.
The new air curtain can prevent both front and rear occupants from hitting their heads on the side window or roof pillars in a severe side collision. In addition, the side-curtain air bag can help block glass splinters or other objects that could cause injury in a side impact.
Lincoln MKZ’s two-row air curtains also feature "roll-fold" technology – an exclusive in the midsize segment. If an occupant is resting his or her head against a window, the air bag is designed to slide between the glass and occupant as it fills. Typical side air curtains unfold like an accordion. Lincoln’s roll-fold keeps the air curtain against the glass, even when the occupant is out of position.
Lincoln MKZ features four-wheel disc brakes with a four-sensor, three-channel anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic brake force distribution (EBD). By measuring brake force and directing braking to the wheels that have the best grip, EBD helps achieve shorter stopping distances even before ABS activates. Traction assist also is standard.
QUICK SPECS
POWERTRAIN
3.5-liter, DOHC, 24-valve, 60-degree, V-6
• 250 hp @ 6250 rpm
• 240 lb. ft. @ 4500 rpm
• Standard 6-speed automatic transmission
CHASSIS
• Wheelbase: 107.4 in.
• Length: 190.5 in.
• Max width: 72.2 in. (excluding mirrors)
SUSPENSION
• Front - Independent short and long arm (SLA) with rearward-facing lower control arms; 24-mm stabilizer bar
• Rear - Multilink fully independent with coil-over shock and lower control arms; 17-mm stabilizer bar
Entry-level Lincoln: Attracting a new generation of luxury customers to the Lincoln showroom
Power and performance: More powerful, efficient, 250 horsepower 3.5-liter V-6 paired with a smooth-shifting 6-speed transmission; more engaging, performance oriented driving character; added confidence of available intelligent all-wheel drive.
Added confidence: Available intelligent all-wheel drive (AWD)
Hallmarks of luxury: Refined waterfall grille and front fascia; new 17-inch, 8-spoke, machined aluminum wheels; available THX® II Certified audio system and SIRIUS satellite radio
LUXURY SEDAN REBORN
Following the strong sales launch of the Lincoln Zephyr in the autumn of 2005, the entry-level luxury sedan is reborn for the 2007 model year with a new, more powerful 3.5-liter V-6 engine, a newly designed front end, more traction with available all-wheel drive (AWD) and a new name – Lincoln MKZ.
"Customer demand for Lincoln’s mid-size luxury sedan has exceeded our expectations," says Al Giombetti, president, Ford, Lincoln Mercury Marketing and Sales. "We have taken a brand-new, well-received car and significantly improved it to draw a new generation of customers to the Lincoln brand." Lincoln Zephyr has become an immediate sales success. "Judging by reaction in the showroom, customers are clearly ready for an American entry-level luxury sedan," Giombetti says.
POWERFUL NEW V-6 ENGINE DESIGNED TO DELIVER
Ford Motor Company’s all-new Duratec 35 V-6 engine paired with a premium 6-speed transmission delivers 250 horsepower and 240 pounds-foot of torque. The result will be smooth power and a confident, comfortable ride.
"Our new 3.5-liter V-6 coupled with an advanced 6-speed automatic provides an innovative solution for better fuel efficiency, more refinement, more power and clean emissions, without any sacrifices," says Barb Samardzich, Ford vice president of Powertrain Operations.
A strong, lightweight die-cast aluminum block and lightweight 4-valve direct-acting, mechanical-bucket valve train provide smooth, refined operation at high engine speeds. The intake was designed as a system all the way from the throttle body to the intake valves. This incorporates a dual-plenum intake manifold and intake variable cam timing to help ensure a smooth idle and broad torque curve for improved power. A 10.3:1 compression ratio and improved close-coupled catalysts reduce emissions.
The Lincoln MKZ is able to respond readily to its driver’s demands, thanks to the premium 6-speed automatic transmission. A torque-based electronic throttle control works with the electronically controlled transmission by adjusting throttle plate movement to tailor torque to the timing of each shift. In this way, the transmission is able to deliver smooth, barely perceptible gear changes.
CLASSIC, UNDERSTATED ELEGANCE
The exterior design of Lincoln MKZ incorporates classic elements of Lincoln style that have become essential to the visual heritage of the brand. Further refinement of Lincoln’s traditional waterfall grille, additional bright work and distinctive lighting gives the Lincoln MKZ an even more distinctive look.
The Lincoln MKZ’s profile features chromed trim at the beltline and on the mirror caps, set off by the wheels. The 17-inch alloy wheels are an important design element, available with a machined-aluminum appearance or a new chromed-aluminum finish. Low-profile tires reinforce the low, purposeful stance of the car.
The rear bumper surface is nearly flush, contributing to the clean, uncluttered lines. Twin chrome-tipped tailpipes are set wide apart below thin horizontal reflectors in the lower fascia, similar in placement to the front fog lamps. Together, the flush bumper and chrome-tipped dual exhaust communicate a subtle athleticism.
INSIDE: UNPRETENTIOUS LUXURY
The Lincoln MKZ uses genuine materials, including real wood, high-quality leather, satin nickel and chromed trim. White electro-luminescent lighting illuminates the round, chrome-ringed gauges, complementing the interior’s white lighting, which uses white light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to backlight controls and switches at night.
The instrument panel features a horizontal band of contrasting trim in either wood or satin nickel, which gives the interior a more "technical" appearance. When equipped with wood, interior choices are: Dark Charcoal or Light Stone with Ebony wood or Sand with Figured Maple wood.
"The figured maple gives the interior a fresh and exciting look," says Peter Horbury, executive director, North American Design. "The dark ebony is classic elegance for a traditional sense of luxury. The satin nickel, with its lightly raised ribbing, is technical and modern. We were able to establish three completely different ambient settings through use of these materials."
The Lincoln MKZ is designed for comfort, too, with more than three feet of rear-passenger legroom. The spacious feel of the cabin was achieved by stretching the width of the base architecture by 30 millimeters and the wheelbase by 55 millimeters.
The Lincoln MKZ features a large 15.8-cubic-foot trunk (largest trunk in its class) with a flat load floor and a low lift-over height. The deck lid has compact hinge mechanisms that won’t impinge on trunk volume or crush cargo. The rear seats feature class exclusive standard 60/40-split backs that individually fold flat with a convenient spring assist, giving access to the trunk and affording cavernous storage space.
Thanks to a rigid and robust structure, the quiet interior is the perfect environment for the industry’s first THX® II Certified audio system. Optional on the Lincoln MKZ, the system features surround-sound worthy of an upscale cinema. The system features 14 speakers, including two subwoofers with 600 watts of power and a sophisticated processor that inputs bandwidth, peak audio levels and coverage uniformity to deliver a smooth spectral balance and wide dynamic range. An MP3 audio input jack and factory-installed SIRIUS satellite radio are also available.
To ensure that drivers and passengers always travel with the right directions, a new DVD-based navigation system is optional and features a sharp 6.5-inch-wide screen and text-to-speech technology with travel directions in English, Spanish or French.
QUIET RIDE, NIMBLE HANDLING, AVAILABLE ALL-WHEEL DRIVE
Lincoln MKZ’s chassis is tuned for a quiet, comfortable ride with confident, responsive handling. All aspects of the fully independent suspension – dampers, spring rates and bushings – have been specially selected and tuned with an emphasis on ride comfort without sacrificing precise and nimble response.
The standard 17-inch tires were selected to complement the suspension tuning and for their quiet tread design. The rack-and-pinion steering system was tuned to be in harmony with the suspension and tires. Utilizing the car’s stiff structure, the Lincoln MKZ mounts the steering gear to the front perimeter subframe for reduced noise and vibration. This lets the driver better experience the car’s relationship to the road via the steering wheel, whether it’s a parking maneuver or a high-speed lane change.
The available intelligent all-wheel-drive (AWD) system is tuned with an emphasis on luxury performance and confident all-weather driving. The system actively and seamlessly delivers torque to all four wheels, even before wheel slippage occurs. An active on-demand coupler delivers the precise amount of torque needed to the rear wheels. Paired with available traction control, intelligent AWD can transfer torque front-to-rear and side-to-side.
SAFETY: THE ESSENTIAL LUXURY
Lincoln MKZ features a number of highly advanced safety technologies. It was designed with Ford’s Personal Safety System™ and a body structure optimized to help manage energy in a crash.
Lincoln MKZ’s safety system includes standard driver and front passenger air bags, seat-deployed side air bags for thorax protection, and three-point safety belts at all seating positions, with front-seat pretensioners and retractors. A full-length safety curtain provides head protection over the length of the window glass area – from A-pillar to C-pillar.
The new air curtain can prevent both front and rear occupants from hitting their heads on the side window or roof pillars in a severe side collision. In addition, the side-curtain air bag can help block glass splinters or other objects that could cause injury in a side impact.
Lincoln MKZ’s two-row air curtains also feature "roll-fold" technology – an exclusive in the midsize segment. If an occupant is resting his or her head against a window, the air bag is designed to slide between the glass and occupant as it fills. Typical side air curtains unfold like an accordion. Lincoln’s roll-fold keeps the air curtain against the glass, even when the occupant is out of position.
Lincoln MKZ features four-wheel disc brakes with a four-sensor, three-channel anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic brake force distribution (EBD). By measuring brake force and directing braking to the wheels that have the best grip, EBD helps achieve shorter stopping distances even before ABS activates. Traction assist also is standard.
QUICK SPECS
POWERTRAIN
3.5-liter, DOHC, 24-valve, 60-degree, V-6
• 250 hp @ 6250 rpm
• 240 lb. ft. @ 4500 rpm
• Standard 6-speed automatic transmission
CHASSIS
• Wheelbase: 107.4 in.
• Length: 190.5 in.
• Max width: 72.2 in. (excluding mirrors)
SUSPENSION
• Front - Independent short and long arm (SLA) with rearward-facing lower control arms; 24-mm stabilizer bar
• Rear - Multilink fully independent with coil-over shock and lower control arms; 17-mm stabilizer bar
http://us.tnpv.net/2006/WKA200602/WKA2006020682695_pv.jpg[/IMG]
02-07-06 | 06:16 AM
#4
Lexus Fanatic
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 91,712
Likes: 89
From: Virginia/D.C. suburbs
They need to keep the Zephyr name. This buisness of more and more companies using letters and numbers to identify their products is starting to get annoying. It also confuses a lot of people.
As an aside note, IMO LIncoln should also drop the proposed MKS designation and bring back the Continental nameplate instead.
As an aside note, IMO LIncoln should also drop the proposed MKS designation and bring back the Continental nameplate instead.
Last edited by mmarshall; 02-07-06 at 06:19 AM.
02-07-06 | 09:34 AM
#5
Guest
Posts: n/a
Originally Posted by mmarshall
They need to keep the Zephyr name. This buisness of more and more companies using letters and numbers to identify their products is starting to get annoying. It also confuses a lot of people.
As an aside note, IMO LIncoln should also drop the proposed MKS designation and bring back the Continental nameplate instead.
As an aside note, IMO LIncoln should also drop the proposed MKS designation and bring back the Continental nameplate instead.
How the hell can they JUST RELEASE the car and then change the name?
Why the hell are they releasing info, right AFTER the has been released?
WHY DO AMERICAN COMPANIES WANT TO DROP THE NAMES???? Cadillac and Lincoln have a STORIED HERITAGE, with the NAMES.
I like Town Car, Continental, etc. I like Seville, Deville, Escalade. WHY DROP THE NAMES??!??!
People still call them Lincolns and Caddys, no matter what the actual car is named.
Lincoln, you are idiots with no clue. Now I got to attack you.
A 3.5 liter for 250hp. Whooty do. 20 less than the ES 350
I would NEVER get this over the ES, even if this has AWD.
02-07-06 | 09:35 AM
#6
Guest
Posts: n/a
Originally Posted by mmarshall
They need to keep the Zephyr name. This buisness of more and more companies using letters and numbers to identify their products is starting to get annoying. It also confuses a lot of people.
As an aside note, IMO LIncoln should also drop the proposed MKS designation and bring back the Continental nameplate instead.
As an aside note, IMO LIncoln should also drop the proposed MKS designation and bring back the Continental nameplate instead.
02-07-06 | 10:44 AM
#7
Lexus Fanatic
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 5,813
Likes: 1
From: The Bay Area, CA, USA
Originally Posted by 1SICKLEX
A 3.5 liter for 250hp. Whooty do. 20 less than the ES 350
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/sho...d.php?t=186788
Trending Topics
02-07-06 | 11:22 AM
#8
Guest
Posts: n/a
Originally Posted by XeroK00L
Come on, Sick, we did all praise the arrival of the new 3.5L when it was announced didn't we? 250hp isn't that bad really, especially when it earns a PZEV rating at the same time.
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/sho...d.php?t=186788
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/sho...d.php?t=186788
I mean teh IS makes 306hp with this same displacement. Nissan up to 300hp.
Lincoln/Ford needs to LEAD, not follow. Imagine if it had 300horses, that would have opened some eyes. 3.5 wtih 250hp in 2007 is midpack.
02-07-06 | 11:35 AM
#9
Lexus Fanatic
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 7,285
Likes: 0
From: A better place
Originally Posted by XeroK00L
Come on, Sick, we did all praise the arrival of the new 3.5L when it was announced didn't we? 250hp isn't that bad really, especially when it earns a PZEV rating at the same time.
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/sho...d.php?t=186788
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/sho...d.php?t=186788
The Duratec 35 earns ULEV-II, JUST LIKE Toyota's 3.5L V6.
The Duratec 35 is "PZEV capable", but don't hold your breath for that. It will be years before there is even a possibility of seeing a PZEV Duratec 35.
As for the name change, very stupid idea indeed. It will confuse Lincoln buyers even more, and alienate Zephyr buyers. Also the fact that Honda is suing Ford for the MKX name being too similar to the MDX also doesn't help anything.
Ford is desperately trying to be a "me too" and follow the Japanese competition.
In terms of interior, I think the Zephyr interior is ugly. I haven't sat in it, and it may be high quality and good fit and finish, but the design is just so ugly to me, and it seems so dated, as well as a big contrast to the exterior.
I think the current ES interior is better than this, and I believe the new ES will blow the Zephyr/MKZ out of the water, especially with an ultra-lux package.
Keep in mind the Zephyr is based on the Ford Fusion chassis, which itself is based on Mazda's CD3 chassis.
So at the root of it all, it's a Mazda vs Toyota chassis competition
.
02-07-06 | 12:26 PM
#10
Lexus Fanatic
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 7,285
Likes: 0
From: A better place
Just to add, the ES350 actually is rated at 275HP, although that's on premium. Still, we're talking about luxury cars here, so I see no reason for the Zephyr to not be rated on premium either.
The Duratec 35 supposedly gets 250HP on regular, which is 18HP difference from Toyota's 3.5L V6 on regular. One piece of the puzzle that remains is fuel economy, and it will be interesting to see if the Duratec 35 can match Toyota's 3.5L in fuel economy.
The Duratec 35 supposedly gets 250HP on regular, which is 18HP difference from Toyota's 3.5L V6 on regular. One piece of the puzzle that remains is fuel economy, and it will be interesting to see if the Duratec 35 can match Toyota's 3.5L in fuel economy.
02-07-06 | 01:09 PM
#11
Pit Crew
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 171
Likes: 0
From: Missouri
Originally Posted by DC52E55
3.5L V6 250hps?? 
lol
welcome to year 1659.
lol welcome to year 1659.
I too think it sounds sort of odd to just refer the cars as Lincoln now, but the switch is necessary for the company to increase it's name awareness/perception. The Zephyr is still very new and making a change now isn't a big deal.
Hopefully, the 07 models can roll out soon.
02-07-06 | 01:19 PM
#12
Lexus Fanatic
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 5,813
Likes: 1
From: The Bay Area, CA, USA
Originally Posted by Guy Legend
250 hp in this class isn't bad. It's just under the 255hp and 258 hp produced by the 330i and TL respectively.
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
