[Koo-Sang Column] Lincoln MKX, the more delicate American SUV

Ford’s premium brand Lincoln has recently revealed MKX, which is a SUV that has some sedan’s identities. While Ford’s popular SUV Explorer is a family SUV with 7 seats in 3 rows, Lincoln MKX is a smaller SUV that has five-seat in two-row.

However, it is an upper segment vehicle that is much more expensive. MKX pursues sedan-like identity while Explorer is a truck-like SUV. MKX design features such as shorter rear overhang and C-pillar that has rapidly slanted shape prove it.

Seen from the side, the 18-inch large wheels give a strong impression while black plastic protector at the inside of the wheel arch emphasize four-wheel drive SUV image. The round wheel arch flange makes the wheel look larger to emphasize.

Recently, Lincoln has moved to have European image that gives smaller and denser imapression rather than American one, which gives large and aggressive image.

Therefore, the front radiator grille has been changed from vertical ribs into horizontal ribs for sporty look. In terms of taillights, Lincoln has changed them on the SUVs and sedans into horizontal lenses deployed straightly.

Changes can be found from the interior design as well. The button type shifting gear interface at the Centerfascia is the one. New MKX also has it, as it is not only convenient, but also popular among female drivers.

Not like male drivers who think shifting gear is needed depending on situations, most of female drivers want cars to do it ‘by themselves’ once drivers have set it.

This is why the button typed transmission is getting popular. Also, the mood lamps in the cabin are also one of the characteristics able to be found on many other luxurious cars.

Meanwhile, some models from Lincoln have two-toned leather that covers the instrument panel. Whether the domestic models will have it or not, the feature definitely gives a fashionable impression.

Although domestic customers may not like ‘the color easy to be dirty’, there is no doubt that C.M.F(Color, Material, Finish) has become an essential issue of emotional quality.

Lincoln’s recent movement implies Lincoln has found its own direction and escaped from those clunky features. Also, it seems that Lincoln’s such movement like downsizing and being detailed will give great impacts on other American automakers.