Lincoln is in the process of overhauling its lineup, as well as introducing some brand new additions, and the next model we’re likely to see is a flagship sedan that will revive the Continental nameplate and serve as a replacement for the aging MKS.
Lincoln Continental concept, 2015 Shanghai Auto Show
Enlarge PhotoLincoln is in the process of overhauling its lineup, as well as introducing some brand new additions, and the next model we’re likely to see is a flagship sedan that will revive the Continental nameplate and serve as a replacement for the aging MKS. The new Continental was previewed in concept formearlier this year, and prototypes have already been spotted in the wild. Now we know where the Ford Motor Company [NYSE:F] will build the car.
Speaking with The Wall Street Journal , Ford global manufacturing chief John Fleming said the Continental would be built at Ford’s Flat Rock Assembly Plant in Michigan. The plant is currently responsible for the Mustang and Fusion, and adopting Continental production shouldn’t be a problem as the new sedan has been designed around a stretched version of the Fusion’s CD4 platform.
The Continental built at Flat Rock is expected to look almost identical to the concept, which proved a hit at its 2015 New York Auto Show debut. A long-wheelbase version is also in development but this one will be sold exclusively in China. It’s likely to be built at the same plant in China where the Chinese-spec Ford Taurusis assembled.
Lincoln hasn’t set a firm date for the launch of its new Continental, stating only that it arrives in 2016.
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