Ford announced today that its new 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine will debut with a “beefed-up” 6-speed SelectShift automatic transmission that is “designed for higher torque demands of the all-new twin-turbocharged, direct injection engine.”

Based on the new 6F-50 transmission, the 6F-55 is dedicated to the 3.5L EcoBoost lineup. To guarantee every drop of torque produced by the turbocharged V6 EcoBoost, the ring gear on the 6F-55 transmission is a beefier 41.5 mm versus 31.5 mm on the 6F-50.

The 3.5L V6 EcoBoost produces 355-hp (365-hp on the 2010 Taurus SHO) with a maximum torque of 350 lb-ft. The new engine mated to the 6-speed SelectShift 6F-55 transmission will first be made available on the 2010 Lincoln MKS due out later this summer. It will also be available on the new 2010 Lincoln MKT, 2010 Ford Flex and the 2010 Ford Taurus SHO.

Follow the jump for the press release for more details.

Press Release:

BEEFED-UP SIX-SPEED TRANSMISSION MEETS HIGH-TORQUE DEMANDS OF 3.5-LITER ECOBOOST ENGINE

DEARBORN, Mich., Feb. 18, 2009 – Ford’s 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 engine debuts this spring with the perfect running mate for maximum performance and fuel efficiency – a six-speed SelectShift automatic transmission that’s specifically designed for the higher torque demands of the all-new twin-turbocharged, direct injection engine.

Developed from the successful 6F-50 transmission, the 6F-55 is dedicated solely to the 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine and incorporates a number of component and calibration upgrades that help guarantee every drop of torque produced by the turbocharged V-6 is seamlessly transmitted, giving customers that V-8-like performance they love, as well as the fuel economy they demand.

“Adapting the 6F architecture to the EcoBoost engine demanded a close look at every component, piece of hardware, and calibration measure to ensure that this transmission could answer the needs of a higher output engine; help, not hinder, fuel economy; and meet Ford’s strict durability standards,” said Barb Samardzich, vice president, Global Powertrain Engineering.

The engine/transmission combination is already proving its muster. The 2010 Lincoln MKS, the first Ford Motor Company vehicle to offer the 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine and 6F-55 transmission package, will deliver an impressive 355 horsepower and a responsive 350 ft.-lbs. of torque, along with achieving 25 mpg on the highway.

That’s more power and better highway fuel economy than the V-8 engine found in the 2009 Lexus GS460 (24 mpg) or the 2009 Inifiniti M45 (21 mpg). The recently announced return of the 2010 Ford Taurus SHO also will sport the EcoBoost V-6 and the six-speed SelectShift transmission, delivering an estimated 365 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 350 ft.-lbs. of torque at 3,500 rpm, while maintaining fuel economy ratings on par with a V-6 engine.

Other 2010 products set to offer this powertrain combination include the Ford Flex and Lincoln MKT.

High Torque Edits
The 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine strategically uses two small turbochargers, which are quick to respond to throttle inputs, spooling up instantly for torque output that’s impressive – peaking earlier in the rev range than a comparable, normally aspirated engine. The turbo system does, however, run at higher temperatures.

In order to handle the elevated operating temperatures associated with a turbocharged engine and carry the higher torque produced by the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6, the 6F-55 incorporates a blend of hardware, material and calibration upgrades.

The transmission features, for example, wider, thicker transfer and final drive gears, improved input and output carriers, and a new differential case to carry the higher energy produced by the engine and deliver the performance customers expect when they accelerate. The ring gear on the 6F-55, for instance, is a beefier 41.5 mm versus 31.5 mm on the 6F-50.

Final drive ratios have been adjusted and matched to gear ratios to provide optimum performance and fuel economy. Clutches also have been upgraded with high-energy friction materials that can handle higher loads and shift energies over the long term. In addition, clutch piston material upgrades can withstand higher operating temperatures. This, along with thicker thrust washers, and an improved heat treatment on the turbine shaft help handle the higher engine torque.

“We had to bulk up and strengthen all of the transmission’s core parts for higher duty cycles,” said David Capoccia, transmission system manager, Ford Powertrain Operations. “The thicker gears, the improved carriers, upgraded clutches are all part of a set of hardware actions that translate to superior performance and durability for the customer.”

The 6F-55’s torque converter was also tweaked to improve drivability and create a more connected feel for customers. The converter even has its own exclusive efficiency curve and design for increased strength and durability, bolstered by four lugs welded on the cover in comparison to three on the 6F-50.

A second roll restrictor boss, which limits powertrain movement during acceleration, was also added to the Lincoln MKS and MKT EcoBoost transmission packages for superior noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) and a smooth, seamless acceleration experience.

Fuel Economy Factors
The 6F-55 may be bigger and stronger, but it is not less efficient, according to Capoccia. Several of the transmission upgrades actually help improve fuel efficiency. They include:

    – Friction material grooves, which break up the fluid flow between the friction and separator plates and help pump fluid through the plates, have been optimized to reduce overall clutch drag losses.
    – Moving from a six to a nine wave CBLR (Clutch Brake Low Reverse) spring – which aids in mechanically separating the clutch plates – provides a flow path for the fluid that reduces overall clutch drag losses.
    – Calibration measures, such as reducing the modulated slip from 40 rpm to 20 rpm allows less fuel to be burned to deliver the same torque to the wheels; and locking up the torque converter in lower gears to expand the operating range and provide optimum fuel efficiency.
    – Increasing the start-to-open temperature of the bypass valve by 15 degrees, which allows the transmission to run at higher, more efficient temperatures and save fuel.

A High-Volume Commitment
The addition of the 6F-55 builds on the reputation of Ford’s 6F transmission architecture.
And like the 6F-50, the 6F-55 offers customers all the benefits associated with an advanced six-speed gearbox, including superior shift quality, improved acceleration, a more refined driving experience and improved fuel economy. In addition, the SelectShift feature allows the customer to choose gears for a more spirited drive.

“The 6F-55 has all the same features that customers have told us they desire from the 6F-50 transmission, and that includes fluid-fill for life and flat tow capability,” adds Bryce Bollwahn, a systems supervisor at Ford’s Automatic Transmission New Product Center.

Going forward, advanced six-speed transmissions, along with EcoBoost engine technology, will continue to dominate Ford’s sustainability strategy. By the end of 2012, nearly 100 percent of Ford’s North American transmissions will be advanced six-speed gearboxes. By 2013, more than 90 percent of Ford’s North American vehicle lineup will offer EcoBoost technology.

The 6F-55 is produced at Ford’s Van Dyke Transmission Plant in Sterling Heights, Mich., which also produces the 6F-50 and 6F-35. The Van Dyke plant is one of three Ford six-speed transmission Centers of Excellence.

FoMoCo has announced the pricing details on the all-new 2010 Lincoln MKT crossover. Pricing starts at $44,995 for the three-row front-wheel-drive model while the all-wheel-drive model will run you $46,990.

The 2010 Lincoln MKT will come with a choice of two engines including a 3.7L V6 making 268-hp and a 3.5L V6 with EcoBoost making 355-hp. A full-equipped, twin-turbo 355-horsepower EcoBoost Lincoln MKT is will cost you approximately $55,000.

The Lincoln MKT crossover will hit dealerships later this summer with a list of standard and optional features which you can learn more about in the press release posted after the jump.

Click through for the high-res image gallery and the press release.

2010 Lincoln MKT:

ALL-NEW 2010 LINCOLN MKT DELIVERS MORE FEATURES, CLASS-LEADING FUEL ECONOMY FOR UNDER $45,000

- The 2010 Lincoln MKT, equipped with an extensive list of enticing equipment, will arrive this summer priced at $44,995 (including destination) for the front-wheel drive model; equipped with a premium engine and all-wheel drive, prices start at $49,995
- The Lincoln MKT offers two fuel-efficient engine choices: a proven 3.7-liter V-6 designed to deliver an estimated 268 horsepower or a new Twin turbo 3.5-liter V-6 with EcoBoost™ able to deliver an estimated 355 horsepower while delivering best in class fuel economy
- Further growing the brand’s momentum and joining the all-new flagship Lincoln MKS sedan and updated 2010 Lincoln MKZ, the 2010 Lincoln MKT three-row crossover will be available in dealer showrooms in late summer 2009

DETROIT, Jan. 14, 2009 – Lincoln MKT, a distinctive new premium crossover, will be available in late summer 2009 with a long list of standard comfort, convenience and technology features that make it an exceptional value.

Starting at $44,995 for the front-wheel-drive model, the three-row Lincoln MKT brings to the luxury market standard luxury features, quality interior appointments and design, class-leading fuel economy and a distinctive new exterior that embodies a fresh interpretation of Lincoln design DNA.

Similar to the flagship Lincoln MKS sedan, the new three-row Lincoln will offer customers an enticing mix of inviting luxury and useful technology. The base model will come well equipped, with a list of standard features that include:

- SelectShift six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifts
- Eight-inch, color touch-screen for audio and HVAC control
- Rear view camera
- 20-GB hard drive for music jukebox music storage
- Intelligent Access with Push Button Start
- SecuriCode™ Keyless Entry Keypad
- Adaptive Headlamps with High-Intensity Discharge (HID) Lamps
- Auto High Beams
- Rain-Sensing Wipers
- Reverse-sensing parking assist system
- Power opening / closing rear liftgate
- 12-way powered, heated-and-cooled front row seating
- Adjustable pedals
- Heated second-row seats
- Three-zone HVAC
- Ambient lighting
- Panoramic Vista Roof featuring two large glass panels
- 19-inch Premium Painted aluminum wheels
- Integrated spotter mirrors
- And a comprehensive, complementary list of active and passive safety features designed to help protect both driver and passengers.

In addition to a front-wheel drive powertrain, the Lincoln MKT will also be offered with all-wheel-drive. The AWD model with the normally-aspirated, 3.7-liter engine is expected to carry a starting price of $46,990 when it arrives in dealerships this summer. Compared to a similarly priced Acura MDX (the segment leading in sales volume), the Lincoln MKT offers far more interior space, better highway fuel economy and features consumers want, such as adjustable pedals, rain-sensing wipers, auto high beams and the connectivity of SYNC.

The 2010 Lincoln MKT will be available with a premium, 3.5-liter V-6 EcoBoost powertrain as well, and all EcoBoost models will be fitted with AWD. The direct-injection, twin-turbo, 355 horsepower engine is expected to deliver not only best-in-class power but also best-in-class highway fuel economy, superior to both the Acura MDX and Audi Q7. The 355-hp Lincoln MKT will have a starting price of $49,995. Acura does not offer a premium engine upgrade in the three-row MDX.

Lincoln MKT buyers looking for more luxury and convenience features can choose the Elite Package, priced at $5000. The Elite package includes:

- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): A system that allows the driver to set and maintain vehicle speed, while radar monitors traffic ahead. This optional system automatically adjusts speed and slows the vehicle to maintain the set distance behind traffic ahead.
- Collision Warning with Brake Support: A system enabled by Adaptive Cruise Control that provides the driver with a “head-up” display that flashes on the windshield when the system senses slower moving traffic ahead. If the driver doesn’t respond, the system will pre-charge the brakes to prepare the vehicle for a more aggressive stop.
- Blind Spot Information System (BLIS™): BLIS is a radar sensor on the outboard rear quarter panel used to monitor the traditional blind spot areas and can notify the driver with a warning indicator light in the corresponding side view mirror.
- Cross Traffic Alert: Utilizing BLIS sensors, the Lincoln Cross Traffic Alert helps detect approaching traffic when backing out of a parking space. When the vehicle is in reverse and senses traffic, mirror warning lights illuminate and audible signals sound.
- Voice-activated Navigation: An advanced, next-generation system with an internal hard-drive for map and point-of-interest information storage and an updated THX audio system with exclusive new feature – Neural Surround – that helps improve audio reproduction from compressed digital formats.
- Power-opening Panoramic Vista Roof

Stand-alone options available on the 2010 Lincoln MKT include:

- Active-Park Assist: Available on EcoBoost-equipped vehicles, this Lincoln-exclusive system literally “steers” the Lincoln MKT into a parallel parking spot while coaching the driver through conventional throttle and braking inputs.
Active-Park Assist employs an ultrasonic-based sensing system, as opposed to video camera-reliant competitive offerings, to detect edges of adjacent objects to calculate optimized trajectory and making hands-free parallel parking a breeze. It works at the touch of a button, requiring less driver programming and reducing the risk of selecting an inappropriately sized parking space.
- 20-inch polished wheels
- Dual, headrest mounted DVD family entertainment system
- Second-row, heated-and-cooled bucket seats with power lumbar
- Second-row, console-mounted refrigerator
- Class III trailer-towing capability

A full-equipped, twin turbo 355-horspower Lincoln MKT is expected to cost approximately $55,000, placing it thousands less than a comparably equipped Audi Q7. In addition, the Lincoln offers better fuel economy, more interior space and class and exclusive features like Active-Park Assist not available on the Audi Q7.

• •  Competes with: Acura MDX, Audi Q7, Infiniti FX, and BMW X6.
• •  Available with 268-hp 3.7L V6 and 355-hp 3.5L V6 EcoBoost.
• •  Arrives in dealerships later this summer.

Lincoln has entered the luxury crossover segment with its latest addition – the all-new 2010 Lincoln MKT. The three-row 7-passenger crossover offers an array of interior technology and other features that make life a little easier and safer – including available Adaptive Cruise Control, Collision Warning with Brake Support, Active Park Assist and Blind Spot monitoring.

Besides the innovative exterior with the split waterfall grille, the inside of the 2010 Lincoln MKT offers superior luxury craftsmanship with leather-trimmed seating and the optional second-row center console and jewel-like acrylic instrument cluster and LED white lighting. Customers have the option to pick from a fixed glass Panormaic Vista Roof with power assisted front and rear shades, 6 or 7-passenger variation with two different second-row seating configurations, second-row footrests, a dual-headrest Family Entertainment System with 7-inch DVD playback screens, a wide range of exterior paint colors and many more “business-class” like features (check out the press release after the jump for more options).

Click through for more info, the high-res image gallery and the press release.

2010 Lincoln MKT:

Power comes from two 3.7L V6 engine making a total of 268-hp with a maximum torque of 267 lb-ft or the 355-hp 3.5L V6 EcoBoost. Both engines are mated to a 6-speed SelectShift automatic transmission that offers a choice between fully automatic operation and manual control with paddle shifters. All-wheel-drive is standard on the MKT with EcoBoost and optional on the standard 3.7L V6.

The 2010 Lincoln MKT will be available at dealers later this summer. Pricing info will be revealed closer to launch.

2010 Lincoln MKT:

Press Release:

DISTINCTIVE NEW THREE-ROW LINCOLN MKT OFFERS LUXURIES OF FUEL ECONOMY, TECHNOLOGY, SPACE

• All-new 2010 Lincoln MKT enters the luxury crossover segment with Lincoln’s signature design, inviting three-row interior and intuitive technologies that will make customers’ lives easier – including available Adaptive Cruise Control, Collision Warning with Brake Support, Active Park Assist, Blind Spot monitoring – and more

• The Lincoln MKT offers two fuel-efficient engine choices in Ford’s proven 268 horsepower 3.7-liter V-6 or the new 3.5-liter V-6 EcoBoost™ engine that delivers even more performance with estimated 355 horsepower, without compromising its V-6 fuel economy

• Joining the all-new Lincoln MKS and new 2010 Lincoln MKZ and further growing the brand’s momentum, Lincoln MKT will be available in dealer showrooms in late summer

DETROIT, Jan. 12, 2009 – Lincoln is offering full-size luxury crossover customers a fresh new choice with the 2010 Lincoln MKT, a three-row tourer that delivers the optimal blend of fuel economy, performance, technology and spaciousness.

“We’re growing Lincoln’s product portfolio with a full-size crossover that offers more of everything luxury buyers want today – including more variety,” said Mark Fields, Ford’s president of The Americas.  “Lincoln MKT will help us further build momentum for Lincoln, which has been outpacing its luxury competitors and growing market share in recent months.”

The all-new 2010 Lincoln MKT is larger than the two-row Lincoln MKX mid-size premium crossover and joins the sumptuous and sporty Lincoln MKS luxury sedan launched in 2008 and the new Lincoln MKZ sedan that hits the market in spring.

Standard on every Lincoln MKT is the brand’s signature design – complete with a split waterfall grille, a beveled chamfer along the vehicle’s shoulder line, a flowing cantrail that frames the greenhouse and full-width horizontal taillamps that span the subtly curved weight-saving magnesium liftgate that adds visual character while protecting generous rear cargo space.

Precision Lincoln MKT craftsmanship is reflected in world-class panel margins, and in the high tactile quality of interior surfaces and trim.  

Inside, high-quality materials and precision-stitched craftsmanship are evident on every surface – from the leather-trimmed seating surfaces and floating armrests to the optional flow-through second- row center console and jewel-like acrylic instrument cluster with LED white lighting.

Beyond that, customers can choose how to best specify Lincoln MKT, which offers:

• Customers’ choice of a standard fixed glass Panoramic Vista Roof™ with power-assisted front and rear sunshades – or the available Power Panoramic VistaTM   roof
• Either six- or seven-passenger variations with two different second-row seating configurations.  A standard 60/ 40 split folding rear bench seat features heated outboard seating positions.  Power “fold and tumble” bucket seats, with heating, cooling and power-assisted lumbar adjustment are also available.  A rear console-mounted five-quart-capacity refrigerator is available in the individual bucket seating configuration
• Second-row footrests and an available dual headrest Family Entertainment System with twin 7-inch DVD playback screens offering individual or simultaneous programming
• A litany of exterior paint colors, including Ingot Silver Clearcoat Metallic, Tuxedo Black Clearcoat Metallic, Red Candy Tint Clearcoat Metallic, Cinnamon Clearcoat Metallic, Steel Blue Clearcoat Metallic, Gold Leaf Clearcoat Metallic, Sterling Grey Clearcoat Metallic and White Platinum Tri-Coat

Balancing power and efficiency

Fuel-efficiency also comes standard on the Lincoln MKT – and customers have a choice of two powerful yet practical V-6 engines.

A 3.7-liter, 24-valve variation of the award-winning Duratec engine family is standard.  Delivering an expected 268 horsepower at 6,500 RPM and 267 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,250 RPM, this engine has been tuned to provide brisk acceleration and smooth power delivery with best-in-class noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) control. 

A two-speed fuel pump and Aggressive Deceleration Fuel Shut-Off (ADFSO), combined with optimized transmission and final drive gearing, are designed to help this engine to deliver segment-leading fuel economy of an estimated 24 mpg highway, besting both the Acura MDX and Audi Q7 by 4 mpg..

For even more performance driving feel, Lincoln MKT also offers a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V-6.  This engine provides the power of a normally-aspirated V-8 with V-6 fuel economy.  This advanced engine delivers a class-leading estimated 355 horsepower at 5,700 RPM, while generating 350 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,500 RPM. 

EcoBoost is a global Ford strategy to deliver the power that customers want, combined with the fuel economy that they need.  Combining gasoline direct injection with twin turbochargers and a smaller-displacement engine, EcoBoost can match the power output of  larger, naturally aspirated engines while yielding torque and fuel economy gains.

Pressurized direct injection helps eliminate the “turbo lag” associated with earlier turbocharged engines.  And even with the additional horsepower, fuel economy is optimized by an increased compression ratio, enabled by air-charged cooling and sophisticated knock controls. 

Lincoln MKT is equipped with a six-speed SelectShift® automatic transmission.  This advanced gearbox offers the driver a choice between fully automatic operation and manual control. 

In addition, paddle shifters are integrated into the steering wheel spokes.  Intuitive to operate, a squeeze back on either paddle will deliver an upshift, while a gentle push forward on either paddle will induce a “matched-rev” downshift. 

This capability makes the Lincoln MKT driving experience sporty, yet smooth.  Unlike other competitive transmissions, SelectShift won’t “second guess” the driver with an override shift.  With SelectShift, manual control is truly manually controlled.

All-wheel-drive is optional in the Lincoln MKT with the standard 3.7-liter V-6.  The AWD option enhances the vehicle’s capability in a variety of weather conditions.  The sophisticated AWD system is fully automatic, using an advanced array of internal electro-mechanical clutches to efficiently distribute torque between front and rear wheels as needed.  AWD is standard in the Lincoln MKT with the EcoBoost 3.5-liter V-6.

Quiet, confident motoring

“The Lincoln MKT strikes the optimum balance between capable and driver-engaging handling, while simultaneously delivering a smooth quiet ride in all three rows,” said Chief Engineer Ron Heiser.  “It combines a luxury touring experience with an agile ride and available Class III towing strength, as well.”

Key elements of Lincoln MKT suspension development and tuning included minimizing front end lift on acceleration, offering stable and engaging steering and handling characteristics that provide  confidence to all drivers, all while delivering a luxurious ride quality consistent with Lincoln brand character.

A new rear suspension system features a “one for one” shock absorber ratio.  The resulting linear response gave the engineering team a stable base line for suspension tuning, allowing the team to deliver a better balance between responsive handling and control as well as a smooth ride.  It also improves rear suspension isolation and enables the use of 20-inch wheels.

Lincoln MKT delivers a new level of quiet confidence that delivers best-in-class levels of NVH control.  Virtual modeling and wind tunnel tests helped engineers optimize the vehicle, influencing everything from side view mirror placement and special sound deadening in the bulkhead to extensive exhaust system isolation and the inclusion of both an acoustic windshield and dual-layer front side glass to specifically reduce A-pillar wind noise.

On the 3.5 EcoBoost V-6 equipped versions, engineers directed additional effort to minimizing induction noise, while still providing a rewarding aural cadence to Lincoln MKT acceleration.

Premium innovations

Lincoln MKT delivers abundant technologies aimed at making life luxurious for both the driver and three rows of passengers.   A holistic approach was used to develop these amenities, where ease of use and intuitive operation were key objectives.  Nowhere is this focus more apparent than with Active Park Assist. 

Lincoln MKT with EcoBoost features advanced Electronic Power Assisted Steering (EPAS), which enables the optional Active Park Assist.  This innovative Lincoln-exclusive technology employs an ultrasonic-based sensing system, as opposed to video camera-reliant competitive offerings, making hands-free parallel parking a breeze.

Active Park Assist works at the touch of a button, requiring less driver programming, reducing the risk of selecting an inappropriately sized parking space, detecting edges of adjacent objects to calculate optimized trajectory and “steering” the Lincoln MKT while coaching the driver through conventional throttle and braking inputs.

In addition to completing a parking maneuver quickly, Active Park Assist is also the first system to operate in uphill parking situations, unlike competitive systems on the market. 

Additional Lincoln MKT customer convenience features include:

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) allows the driver to set and maintain vehicle speed, while radar monitors traffic ahead of the Lincoln MKT.  This optional system automatically adjusts speed and slows the vehicle to maintain the set distance behind traffic ahead.

Intelligent Access with Push Button Start allows the driver to enter the Lincoln MKT and start the engine without using the key.  Entry is made easier as drivers simply carry the special fob as they approach the vehicle and start the engine by pushing a button. 

SecuriCode™ Keyless Entry Keypad allows access to Lincoln MKT by unlocking the driver’s door by entering a pre-set five-digit code in the flush-mounted, backlit keypad integrated into the B-pillar.

Adaptive Headlamps with Standard High-Intensity Discharge (HID) Lamps enhance nighttime visibility.  Sensors monitor Lincoln MKT speed and steering wheel input to engage headlamp movement to increase the driver’s field of vision.

Auto High Beams coupled with Adaptive Headlamps enhance nighttime visibility by switching to high intensity when no other vehicles are in range.

Rain-Sensing Wipers use an optical sensing system to gauge precipitation and automatically activate and adjust the wipers. 

EasyFuel™ Capless Fuel-Filler System self seals when refueling is complete.

MyKey™ allows parent or other concerned owners to restrict certain Lincoln MKT features when in the hands of a MyKey driver. 
MyKey encourages safety belt usage, provides earlier low fuel warnings, engages applicable driver aid systems and sounds speed chimes at preset levels while limiting audio system volume and top vehicle speed.

Blind Spot Information System (BLIS™) comes into play when a turn signal is activated.  A radar sensor on the outboard rear quarter panel monitors the traditional blind spot area and can notify the driver with a warning indicator light in the corresponding side view mirror if the sensors in this optional system detect a vehicle in the blind spot.

Cross Traffic Alert uses BLIS sensors to help detect traffic when backing out of a parking space.  When the vehicle is in reverse and it senses traffic, mirror warning lights illuminate and audible signals sound.

Spotter Mirrors add secondary convex spotter mirror panels in the top outer corner of the side view mirrors, specifically oriented to reflect objects often lost in a driver’s blind spot.

Reverse Camera System, a standard Lincoln MKT feature, uses the centerstack-mounted touch/ navigation screen for projection and activates upon reverse gear engagement.

Lincoln SYNC™ is standard on Lincoln MKT.  This award-winning voice activated communications and entertainment system developed by Ford and Microsoft fully integrates Bluetooth®-enabled mobile phones and digital media players into the vehicle. 

SYNC incorporates 911 Assist, which can notify a local 911 emergency operator in the event of an air bag deployment incident.  SYNC Vehicle Health Report feature can keep the driver notified of scheduled maintenance, service intervals and vehicle system health information.   

Lincoln MKT is offered with two audio technology choices.  Standard is an AM/FM In-Dash Single CD/DVD/MP3 capable unit with 10 speakers, SIRIUS® Satellite Radio with six-month prepaid subscription, an auxiliary input jack and a USB port. 

The available Navigation Package includes an internal hard-drive for map and point-of-interest information storage, THX II® Certified 5.1 Surround Audio System with 14 strategically aimed Premium Audio speakers. 

A unique new technology, making its debut in the Lincoln MKT audio upgrade package, is Neural Surround significantly improving the surround sound experience from compressed digital music formats.  In addition, a SIRIUS Travel Link™ prepaid subscription is included with the Navigation Package providing coast-to-coast weather data, forecasts, fuel prices, sports scores, movie listings and more. 

The available Navigation Package also enables the driver to display personal photos on the centerstack-mounted touchscreen.   The system can store and display up to 32 photos, sized 1.5MB or less.  The home screen can be personalized, by display or desired information or photos in one, tow or three panel views.

Both systems feature an internal Jukebox hard drive for storage of up to 150 hours of recorded audio entertainment.  Users can browse the Jukebox via touch screen or voice control.  Gracenote® technology will display the CD cover when a selected track is playing.

Technology under the skin

“The new Lincoln MKT brings together a compelling package of active and passive safety features that work to help protect its passengers,” said Stephen Kozak, safety engineering chief.

The Lincoln MKT features a new technology aimed at helping make driving safer.

Collision Warning with Brake Support, enabled by Adaptive Cruise Control, provides the driver with a “heads-up” display that flashes on the windshield when the system senses slower moving traffic ahead.  If the driver doesn’t respond, the system will pre-charge the brakes to prepare the vehicle for a more aggressive stop.

The Lincoln MKT also features an advanced structural safety system that combines octagonal front frame rails, tunnel rails, and support members that are designed to absorb and redirect crash forces away from the passenger compartment.

Lincoln MKT also features Side Protection And Cabin Enhancement (SPACE) Architecture incorporated to optimize side-impact occupant protection

The SPACE system integrates a hydroformed high strength steel tube embedded in the floor that runs the width of the vehicle from B-pillar to B-pillar and along the rocker panels to form a safety cage to help protect passengers in side impact incidents.

Lincoln MKT also features Ford’s enhanced Personal Safety System, combining multiple technologies to tailor the air bag package and safety belt functions to the individual passenger and the accident circumstances.  The system can identify variables, such as severity of the crash, weight of the individual passenger and safety belt usage to adjust air bag deployment force. 

Additional Lincoln MKT safety technologies include:

Safety Canopy™ is Ford’s exclusive side impact protection system employing side curtain air bags to help protect front and outboard rear passengers in both rollover and side impact crashes.

Beltminder® reminder technology for driver and front seat passenger, persistently taking over after the initial safety belt signal stops chiming.

SOS Post-Crash Alert System automatically flashes the turn signal lamps and sounds the horn following deployment of an air bag or activation of a safety belt pretensioner.

“The Lincoln MKT is all about delivering more for customers – more choice, more premium features and technologies and even more luxury for people in all three rows,” Fields said.

The Lincoln MKT will be built at Ford’s Oakville Assembly Complex in Ontario, Canada, and will be in dealer showrooms in late summer.

As reported yesterday, two new Lincoln’s in mid-2009 will get a new feature called Active Park Assist. The new feature will allow the 2010 Lincoln MKS sedan and the new 7-seater Lincoln MKT Crossover to parallel park themselves with a simple push of a button.

Ford has just released a video of the new feature in action. So for those of you that didn’t want to read how the technology works in yesterday’s post, Ali Jammoul, Chief Engineer at FoMoCo, will describe the Active Park Assist to you in this 2 minute video.

Click through for the video.

Ford has announced that it will take on Lexus with a new feature called Active Park Assist for its Lincoln brand. The new feature will be available in mid-2009 on the 2010 Lincoln MKS sedan and the new 7-seater Lincoln MKT Crossover that will make its debut at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show next month.

The Active Park Assist uses an ultrasonic-based sensing system and Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) to position the vehicle for parallel parking. It the calculates the optimal steering angle and quickly steers the vehicle into a parking spot.

Ford says that the EPAS technology also improves fuel-economy by 5 percent while enhancing steer performance with a traditional hydraulic powered-assisted steering systems. FoMoCo plans on introducing EPAS in nearly 90 percent of the Ford, Lincoln and Mercury lineup by 2012

Click through to learn more about how Active Park Assist works.

Ford’s Active Park Assist:

Here’s how Active Park Assist works:

- The driver activates the system by pressing an instrument panel button, which activates the ultrasonic sensors to measure and identify a feasible parallel parking space.
- The system then prompts the driver to accept the system assistance to park.
- The steering system then takes over and steers the car into the parking space hands-free. The driver still shifts the transmission and operates the gas and brake pedals.
- A visual and/or audible driver interface advises the driver about the proximity of other cars, objects and people and provides instructions.
- While the steering is all done automatically, the driver remains responsible for safe parking and can interrupt the system by grasping the steering wheel.