Detroit 2009: Lincoln C Concept

Whoa, a turboed 4-cylinder Lincoln! File this one in the "strange but true" category!  Lincoln has debuted their take on a small C-segment luxury vehicle and it turned out surprisingly good. Could it be a preview of what's to come? Even 5 years ago, a concept like this would have been unheard of from Lincoln.  How times have changed!

Amazingly, designers were able to make Lincoln design work on a vehicle of this size. Designers have took traditional Lincoln cues like the full-width taillights, thick rear C-pillar and 1961 Continental-like suicide doors and integrated them into a very untraditional package.  

That's no small accomplishment, considering the diminuitive proportions of the C Concept. According to Lincoln, the C Concept is based on the platform underpinning the next Ford Focus, but it has been widened significantly to mid-size  levels.

Moving into the interior, I'm again impressed by the designers ability to mix old with the new. Lincoln designers drew on the 1961 Continental for inspiration, and it shows in the interior. The clean, symmetrical dash with classic Lincoln badge and script features a touchsceen in the center that is the basis for a conceptual version of Ford's SYNC system.

Even with the touchscreen, it's placement and chrome surround seem to offer a nod to Lincolns of the past.  I particularly like the unique grey veneer that features prominently on the dash and door panels.  Here's an very interesting fact about the C Concept; the interior provides the same amount of roominess as a 1961 Lincoln Continental in a package with the length of a Ford Focus and the width of a Lincoln MKZ. How's that for efficient packaging? 

The C Concept is a revolutionary idea for Lincoln that reveals a whole new way of thinking inside the brand. They view cars like the C Concept as a way to tap into a new generation and demographic that is used to luxury in small packages. Want more proof of the radical? The C Concept is powered by a turbocharged, 1.6L Ecoboost 4-cylinder making 180HP.   Smart brands must adapt to survive, and it looks like Lincoln really put a lot of thought into this vehicle and what it needs to do to survive going forward.

Now I know the Concept is just that: a concept, but I think it serves as an example of a luxury brand doing a small car right. At this point, this is officially nothing more than a concept car, and not a harbinger of a product to come. However, it's clear there is something more here then just a design excercise. 

Lincoln is definitely testing the waters with the C Concept, and I suspect they will be monitoring reaction to the car closely. Maybe they're considering an entry into Europe in the future? Either way, it looks like big (or should I say small?) things are in store for the brand.