Skoda Yeti in India - Specifications, Reviews and Prices

Skoda Yeti variants in India, Ambiente & Elegance - Features and Details


Skoda, an automobile manufacturer from Czech republic, also a subsidiary unit of the world famous brand, Volkswagen group is now all set to launch it's new Crossover model, Skoda Yeti in the ever growing D segment of the Indian automobile field. This is the first ever Crossover model by Skoda in the Indian market and it will be available mainly in two variants, Skoda Yeti Elegance and Skoda Yeti Ambiente.

This new Skoda Yeti comes to India with a 1968cc, TDi, 4 Cylinder Diesel engine and it gives a Maximum Power of 140 Bhp @ 4200 rpm and Maximum Torque of 320 Nm @ 1750 rpm. This new Skoda Yeti features a Top speed of 190 km and the Mileage of this new Skoda Crossover is about 17.00 kmpl in highway and 13.00 kmpl in cities. Also, the maximum fuel tank capacity is about 60 km.

It should be noted that the main difference between the two variants of Skoda Yeti, elegance and ambiente is that Elegance has 6 airbags in comparison to 2 in ambiente variant and it has 12 speakers with music system in comparison to 8 in ambiente variant. This new Skoda Yeti features a Six Speed Manual Transmission and also comes with a suspension of McPherson Suspension, Multi-element Axle and a tyre size of 215/60 R16.

This new Skoda Yeti, a 5 seater is available in India in six shades: Mato Brown, Candy White, Brilliant Silver, Corrida Red, Magic Black and Aqua Mist. This new Skoda Yeti Ambiente is available for Rs. 15.40 lakhs and Elegance is available for Rs. 16.62 lakhs (ex-showroom New Delhi).

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2011 Jeep Patriot

Chrysler has just revealed the first images and details of its 2011 Jeep Patriot, and the compact softroader has received very subtle nip/tuck for the new model year that touch nearly every aspect of the vehicle.

Exterior upgrades include what Chrysler describes as a more "aggressive" front fascia with standard foglamps, a new rear fascia, body-color grille and optional 17-inch wheels. The SUV also gets four new exterior colors, as well as an increased 4x4 ride height. "Ride and handling is refined courtesy of returned steering and suspension systems," said Chrysler in a statement, although specific details are not being disclosed yet.

At the interior the automaker has increased the quality of materials, and the steering wheel integrates the audio/trip controls just like in the new Grand Cherokee.

The 2011 Jeep Patriot will be offered with front-wheel- or four-wheel-drive, and will be available in three configurations – Sport, Latitude and Latitude X. Sales will begin in the fourth quarter of 2010.

Other top features are the 2011 Jeep Patriot model's affordability, fuel economy for its segment and safety features, Chrysler said. (The 2010 model took Top Safety Pick honors from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety -- provided the vehicle has the optional side torso airbags). Chrysler hasn't announced pricing, but Edmunds experts expect that the base-model MSRP will be $17,795 and predict that fuel-economy will be a combined 25.




Press Release

Coming Soon From Jeep®: 2011 Patriot with Aggressive New Styling, Segment- leading Capability and Unsurpassed 4x4 Fuel Economy

September 14, 2010 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Chrysler Group LLC released images today of the new 2011 Jeep Patriot, the affordable compact sport utility vehicle (SUV) that offers consumers segment-leading capability and unsurpassed 4x4 fuel economy, along with classic, rugged Jeep styling.

Jeep Patriot's classic exterior styling and capability are enhanced for 2011 with new front and rear fascias, a body-color grille, and an increased 4x4 ride height. Ride-and-handling is refined courtesy of retuned steering and suspension systems. Interior enhancements round out the new-for-2011 features, and include significantly upgraded touch points.

"Patriot boasts class-leading 4x4 capability and unsurpassed fuel economy, and a host of safety features in a fun and affordable package – a combination that only Jeep can offer," said Mike Manley, President and CEO – Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. "For 2011, Jeep Patriot is even more appealing to consumers, thanks to rugged new exterior styling, interior enhancements and refinements to the suspension and steering systems."

New-for-2011 Jeep Patriot exterior highlights include an aggressive new front fascia with standard fog lamps positioned inside the headlamps; a new rear fascia that extends lower than on previous models; a body-color grille; new available 17-inch wheels; four new colors and 4x4 ride height that has been increased by 1 inch.

Interior upgrades for the 2011 Jeep Patriot include new soft touch front-door trim panels with a padded upper surface; new center armrest; a new Jeep steering wheel with integrated controls that allow the driver to operate the radio, cruise control, hands-free phone and other vehicle functions while keeping their hands on the wheel; new cloth interior, with premium cloth bucket seats in the front; standard speed control on all models; new backlighting of door switches, door locks, windows and power mirror controls and standard automatic temperature control on the Latitude X model.

Available as a stand-alone option on all models for 2011 is the Uconnect® Voice Command with Bluetooth for hands-free calling and music/radio/SIRIUS satellite radio control.

The 2011 Jeep Patriot offers customers more capability than any other vehicle in the compact SUV class. Capability features include low-range mode which generates a best-in-class 19:1 crawl ratio, brake traction control, 19-inch water fording capability, Hill Descent Control, 4x4 Lock shift-on-the-fly which sends 50 percent of torque to front and rear wheels, and a maximum tow rating of 2,000 lbs. The Jeep Patriot also boasts a retuned suspension for 2011, with higher spring and damping rates, added rebound springs, and an increased diameter of the rear sway bar. Despite these numerous capability features, the 2011 Jeep Patriot boasts unsurpassed 4x4 fuel economy in its segment.

A 2010 Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick, the Jeep Patriot for 2011 is loaded with more than 30 standard safety and security features, thoughtful functionality and best-in-class off-road capability with Freedom Drive II, offering tremendous value for consumers that desire an SUV to accommodate their active lifestyle at an affordable price.

Offered with front-wheel- or four-wheel-drive, Jeep Patriot is available in three configurations – Sport, Latitude and Latitude X.

Built at the Belvidere Assembly Plant in Belvidere, Ill., the new 2011 Jeep Patriot models arrive in Jeep showrooms in the fourth quarter of 2010.

About Chrysler Group LLC
Chrysler Group LLC, formed in 2009 from a global strategic alliance with Fiat Group, produces Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge, Ram Truck and Mopar® vehicles and products. With the resources, technology and worldwide distribution network required to compete on a global scale, the alliance builds on Chrysler's culture of innovation – first established by Walter P. Chrysler in 1925 – and Fiat's complementary technology – from a company whose heritage dates back to 1899.

Headquartered in Auburn Hills, Mich., Chrysler Group LLC's product lineup features some of the world's most recognizable vehicles, including the Chrysler 300, Jeep Wrangler and Ram Truck. Fiat will contribute world-class technology, platforms and powertrains for small- and medium-sized cars, allowing Chrysler Group to offer an expanded product line including environmentally friendly vehicles.

2011 Mini Countryman Getaway package

MINI releases today the new Countryman Getaway Package, the company has come up with a couple of accessories for it which really suit the Countryman lifestyle.

It includes fold-up seats, a multifunctional blanket/cover, boots, a jacket, and more for your rural jaunts. And since storage space is always at a premium—especially in a Mini—the kit can be stowed away entirely within the Countryman’s under-floor storage compartment.

Prices :
MINI Countryman Seat Set (two seats + table top) - €89.00; MINI Countryman Single Seat - €35.00; MINI Countryman Boots - €39.00; MINI Countryman Tee - €29.00; MINI Five-In-One Cover - €65.00; MINI Parka - €139.00.




Press Release

The MINI Getaway Package: for spontaneous stop-offs along the way. Cleverly packed travel set accompanies the launch of the new MINI Countryman.

Munich. We've all had one of those days when you're out in the car, the sun shining, and your thoughts turn to finding a nice rural spot for an impromptu breather. If only you'd packed the right equipment for the job in hand. Luckily, MINI is pitching in to help out. The cult British brand has come up with a handy set of items for off-the-cuff mid-journey breaks – just in time for the market launch of the MINI Countryman. The clever MINI Countryman Getaway Package can be stowed away in the new crossover model's dual-layer load compartment floor, which is separated from the regular storage space by a lid. This allows the travel set to be in place and ready for use at all times without making in-roads into interior space.

The set includes the MINI Countryman Seats, two comfortable folding wooden chairs in characteristic MINI design. Their durable canvas surface comes in an easy Racing Check or stylised Union Jack look, both in dark grey against a black background. Roomy outside pockets can be attached to the sides of the Countryman Seats using press studs, while a carry bag makes the chairs easy to transport. The MINI Countryman Seats can also be converted into tables with the help of a wooden board. Now nothing can get in the way of a picnic in the great outdoors. And, as it happens, the convertible seats also do an excellent job inside. The MINI Countryman Seats are available as a set consisting of two chairs and a table top. Extra seats can be purchased individually should your random excursions grow in popularity.

An essential feature of the Getaway Package is the MINI Five-In-One Cover. This multifunctional cover in Chequered Flag design is a poncho, sleeping bag, awning, picnic blanket and bed cover in one, and makes the ideal accessory for those more extended stops during a journey. The loops and ties on the four corners help to make the most of the cover's various functions, and the bag for the cover doubles up as a handy cushion.

The new MINI Countryman Boots, meanwhile, ensure that your feet stay dry on cross-country hikes. With their Union Jack/Rockstyle Print/Countryman design, the black unisex Wellington boots cut a seriously cool figure. The British flag also makes an appearance in the inside pattern of the boots.

The MINI Parka, a contemporary interpretation of the classic M51 Fishtail, also protects against the vagaries of the weather. The olive-green unisex hooded jacket embodies a stylish Mod look, complemented by a selection of neat patches which can be attached on the left sleeve using a Velcro-type fastener.

The Getaway Package also contains a change of shirt, should fresh togs be required. The limited-edition MINI Countryman Tee suits MINI down to the ground and adds a touch of fashionable chic with its funky gift packaging for him or her, catchy shade of lilac and print of the new MINI model.

Spur-of-the-moment picnic or brief saunter into the countryside, the MINI Countryman Getaway Package ensures you are ready for anything. The set will be available from the launch of the new MINI model in September 2010. Customers will be able to order the Getaway Package – as well as the other MINI Collection items – from the MINI Online Shop at www.MINI.de/shop and at selected MINI dealers.

MINI Countryman Getaway Package

MINI Countryman Seat Set - €89.00
(two seats + table top)
MINI Countryman Single Seat - €35.00
MINI Countryman Boots - €39.00
MINI Countryman Tee - €29.00
MINI Five-In-One Cover - €65.00
MINI Parka - €139.00

Statement by American Honda Motor Co., Inc., Regarding VSA Modulator Recall

Honda has announced a recall for some 410,000 vehicle due to a defect with the Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) module. According to the automaker, 344,00 Odysseys and 68,000 Elements (MY 2007-2008) are affected by the problem and owners will be notified via mail this April to take their vehicles into dealers.


The issue with the VSA results in a softening sensation through brake pedal and a longer pedal travel that requires owners to apply more pressure to bring their vehicles to a halt. The condition worsens over time as the stability control system lets a small amount of air into the braking system.

More Photos



Press Release

Honda will recall approximately 344,000 Odyssey and 68,000 Element vehicles from the 2007-2008 model years in the U.S. to modify the Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) modulator. Honda has received customer complaints of brake pedals that feel "soft" or that gradually exhibit a pedal height that gets lower (closer to the floor) before the vehicle stops. In affected vehicles, this condition tends to very slowly increase over time.

Some VSA modulators were assembled in a manner that could allow air intrusion, making it possible for air to enter the modulator during the VSA self-check mode. While only a miniscule amount of air can enter the system during each check, over a period of months or years, the air will accumulate and can result in the "soft brake pedal" or "low brake pedal" condition symptoms associated with this issue. Although not all vehicles being recalled are affected by this issue, we are recalling all possible units to assure all customers that their vehicles will perform correctly.

Honda is announcing this recall to encourage all owners of these vehicles to take their vehicle to an authorized dealer as soon as they receive notification from Honda that their vehicle is affected. Notification to customers will start at the end of April.

Once owners of these vehicles receive written notification of this recall from Honda, they should contact their authorized Honda dealer to schedule an appointment for repair. When Honda identifies concerns of this nature, nothing is more important to the company than fulfilling our obligation and responsibility to alert our customers. To this end in addition to contacting customers by mail, after April 19, 2010, owners of these vehicles will be able to determine if their vehicle requires repair by going on-line or calling. Honda owners can go to www.recalls.honda.com or call (800) 999-1009, and select option 4.

Ford Releases new turbo'd 203-hp 2.0-liter for Mondeo at Geneva Motor Show

Ford's all-new C-car makes its European debut at next month's Geneva show, alongside final versions of C-MAX and Grand C-MAX which go on sale this year. There are also further product enhancements for the Ford Kuga and Mondeo and more options revealed for the new S-MAX and Galaxy.

All-new Ford C-MAX range

The all-new Ford C-MAX family provides two of the star attractions presented by Ford Motor Company at the 2010 Geneva International Motor Show. The C-MAX family brings new levels of style and desirability to the compact Multi-Activity Vehicle (MAV) market.

Ford's C-segment MAV customers now have the choice of a new five-seat C-MAX or a distinctive new seven-seat Grand C-MAX, which features twin sliding doors and innovative seat design to provide outstanding space and flexibility. AtGeneva, the interior of the five-seat C-MAX is revealed for the first time. It features a coupe-like, sweeping roofline which falls off to the rear, but without compromising the comfort and practicality of the vehicle. The seven-seat model features a higher roofline and thinner pillars which emphasise the generous room and visibility on offer within the cabin.

The all-new C-MAX cockpit will represent the next generation of Ford's human machine interface (HMI) system. The key elements of this technology are two five-way toggle switches on the steering wheel, which control two main vehicle displays: one in the instrument cluster and the second mounted in a high position in the centre console. This simple, intuitive control system enables the driver to operate the key vehicle features while keeping both hands on the wheel, and with a minimum of distraction.

Fuel-efficient, low-CO2 powertrains for the C-MAX range include the new 1.6-litre Ford EcoBoost petrol engine and updated 1.6- and 2.0-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel engines.

"The launch of the new C-MAX range is highly significant, and shows customers worldwide that they can expect some truly exciting designs as we roll out our new global range of medium cars," said John Fleming. "The new C-MAX is just the start – with the next-generation Focus coming quickly after, we look forward to revealing more of the story in the very near future."


All-new Ford Kuga powertrain and transmission enhancements

The stylish Ford Kuga crossover strengthens its reputation as the leading vehicle in its class with exciting new powertrain and transmission options designed to boost performance and improve fuel economy and CO2 performance.

The updated Kuga now offers a powerful new 163PS version of the 2.0-litre Ford Duratorq TDCi diesel engine achieving a CO2 output of just 159g/km in the All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) models with manual transmission (six per cent reduction compared to the previous 136PS engine). The new efficiency advantages delivered by the Ford Powershift gearbox lower CO2 emissions for the 140 and 163PS AWD diesel automatics to a class-leading 179g/km.

With 20 per cent more peak power, the new 163PS engine improves the performance of the Kuga, increasing the top speed from 112 to 121mph and cutting the 0-62mph time from 10.7 to 9.6sec, as well as meeting the latest European Stage V emissions standards.


All-new Ford Mondeo powertrain and transmission enhancements

The versatile Ford Mondeo now benefits from improved fuel economy and lower emissions combined with stronger performance thanks to new high efficiency Ford EcoBoost petrol-injection turbo and upgraded Ford Duratorq TDCi diesel engines.

The Mondeo gains the all-new, high efficiency, turbocharged, 203PS 2.0-litre Ford EcoBoost SCTi petrol engine and significantly improved Stage V, 2.0-litre Duratorq TDCi diesels with 115PS and 140PS power outputs, plus an impressive new 163PS version.

In addition, the smooth and effortless Ford Powershift six-speed twin-clutch automatic transmission system comes to the Mondeo range, fitted as standard with the 2.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine and optionally available for the 140PS and 163PS Duratorq TDCi diesel engines.

The newly introduced 2.0-litre 163PS Ford Duratorq TDCi allows the Mondeo to achieve impressive fuel economy with a combined fuel consumption as low as 53.2mpg*, as well as complying with stage V emissions regulations. Together with the new Ford Powershift, the Mondeo delivers a combined fuel economy of just 50.4mpg.

*Note: Fuel economy figures quoted are based on the European Fuel Economy Directive
EU 80/1268/EEC and will differ from fuel economy drive cycle results in other regions of the world.
Source: Ford; Photos autoblog

Geneva Debut: Subaru Impreza XV crossover

Exhibition Outline of the 80th Geneva International Motor Show

Tokyo, February 5, 2010 - Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI), the maker of Subaru automobiles, today announced that it will exhibit the "SUBARU HYBRID TOURER CONCEPT" as an European premiere and unveil the "Subaru Impreza XV" as a world premiere, which will be marketed this summer in Europe, at the 80th Geneva International Motor Show slated for March in Geneva, Switzerland (Press day: March 2 and 3; Open to the public from March 4 through 14).

It will also showcase the "Subaru Plug-in STELLA", a production electric vehicle launched in Japan last year, "BOXER DIESEL" models, and highlight Subaru's unique Horizontally-Opposed Boxer Engine technologies. With these exhibits and throughout the booth design, FHI will showcase Subaru's efforts to integrate enjoyable and reliable driving with environmentally friendly solutions. The press conference by President Ikuo Mori is scheduled at the Subaru booth on March 2, 2010 at 15.45h

Employing the Subaru's core technology of "Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD)" and "Horizontally-Opposed Boxer Engine", the "SUBARU HYBRID TOURER CONCEPT" reflects Subaru's vision of the future grand touring car. Presented with an eye-catching sculpted exterior design, the concept offers an ideal combination of Subaru's authentic driving performance, all-round safety features and environmental friendliness provided by its unique hybrid system.

The "Subaru Impreza XV", developed on the basis of the iconic Impreza 5-door model, offers a new crossover styling. Exclusively designed front grille and wheel arch, and specially equipped roof rails and a roof spoiler accentuate the uniqueness of this special Impreza version. The available 2.0-litre Horizontally-opposed petrol engine and the turbo BOXER DIESEL engine comply with European EURO 5 regulations for enhanced environmental friendliness.
Source: Subaru

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation to Premiere All-new ASX Compact Crossover at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show

TOKYO, January 19th, 2010 — Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) will premiere its ASX all-new compact crossover from Tuesday March 2, 2010 to Sunday March 14, 2010 at the 80th Geneva International Motor Show held at the Geneva Palexpo in Switzerland.

The ASX is the European-spec version of the Japanese RVR, which is slated to go on sale in Japan from February 2010. MMC's new compact crossover will seat 5 and will be sequentially introduced in European countries from late spring 2010, aimed at expanding MMC's passenger car footprint in the region, following in the footsteps of the larger and recently redesigned Outlander mid-size crossover.

TOKYO, January 19th, 2010 — Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) will premiere its ASX all-new compact crossover from Tuesday March 2, 2010 to Sunday March 14, 2010 at the 80th Geneva International Motor Show held at the Geneva Palexpo in Switzerland.

The ASX is the European-spec version of the Japanese RVR, which is slated to go on sale in Japan from February 2010. MMC's new compact crossover will seat 5 and will be sequentially introduced in European countries from late spring 2010, aimed at expanding MMC's passenger car footprint in the region, following in the footsteps of the larger and recently redesigned Outlander mid-size crossover.



Amongst other available powertrains, the European-spec version will be fitted with an all-new Euro 5-compliant 1.8L turbocharged direct-injection diesel engine jointly developed by MMC and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. and will feature "Automatic Stop & Go" technology. Together with a 6-speed manual transmission, this combination will provide high environmental efficiency.

Source: Mitsubishi

2010 Lincoln MKT EcoBoost Road Test

We finally drive Ford’s EcoBoost V-6 and come away impressed with more than just the engine. That is the 2010 Linkcoln MKT EcoBoost.

Ford Motor Corp. has been touting its EcoBoost engine technology for more than two years now. The buildup began when the Lincoln MKR concept debuted at the 2007 Detroit show, hinting at the automaker’s plan to employ smaller engines equipped with turbochargers and direct fuel injection. In the same time frame, early adopters such as Audi, BMW, and Porsche have been much praised for how the technologies have improved the power delivery, fuel economy, and emissions of many of their vehicles.

Fast-forward to today, and Ford has officially—and finally—joined the party, with Lincoln taking the lead: the 2010 MKT crossover and 2010 MKS sedan are the first models to go on sale with available EcoBoost powertrains. Ford recently invited the media to its Michigan proving ground to get acquainted with the new cars—and engines. Here, we concern ourselves with the surprisingly good MKT.



We Don’t Need No Stinking V-8

Based on the Ford Flex—itself based on a stretched Taurus X platform— the MKT is a unique three-row crossover that the company expects to compete with the likes of the Audi Q7 and Acura MDX. The MKT makes the boldest statement yet about Lincoln’s styling direction, specifically in the huge split-waterfall grille. We don’t think the look quite works when the grille is this enormous, but perhaps it will grow on us in time. Ford says people who are fond of the box-tacular Flex don’t always connect with the MKT’s softer lines and boat-tail butt and that the Lincoln is meant to make a statement about the brand rather than appeal to everyone.

Instrumented testing and real-world impressions will have to wait until our next rendezvous with the big Lincoln (it’s a half-foot longer than the Flex), but on Ford’s undulating ride-and-handling course and five-mile banked oval, the MKT exhibited reassuring composure and had more than enough grunt to outrun the V-8–powered Audi Q7 on hand for comparison. Thanks to a pair of quick-spinning, grapefruit-sized turbochargers, the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 pushes out a stout 355 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque on regular unleaded—all of which is available from as low as 1500 rpm. Mated to a fortified six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and well-spaced ratios, the engine moves the 5200-pound MKT off the line quickly and with little effort. Upshifts—whether initiated in automatic mode or by pulling back on either paddle—barely interrupt thrust, which stops only when the electronic limiter kicks in at 120 mph to protect the 255/45-20 Goodyear Eagle RS-A tires. (Non-EcoBoost MKTs get 19-inch wheels and tires as standard.) Engine noise is more noticeable than in the MKS but is still hushed and pleasant in tone.

All the torque from the EcoBoost engine makes passing maneuvers at highway speeds a snap. The motivation also is expected to come with a very un-V-8-like thirst: the MKT's estimated ciy/highway rating of 16/22 mpg is the same as the three-row, V-6 Buick Enclave and slightly better than the MDX's 15/20. However, competitive V-8 crossovers with similar power, such as the Q7 and the BMW xDrive48i, best illustrate the relative efficiency of the advanced turbo-six. The Q7 is rated at 13/18 mpg, while the X5 manages 14/19.

The MKT is not for carving up back roads, but body motions are nevertheless well controlled and the ride is very smooth—and better than the Flex’s. Bumps, dips, and broken pavement rarely seemed to upset the chassis or necessitate excessive steering corrections as they did for the Q7, and the brakes stopped the hefty crossover well despite a soft and squishy pedal. The all-wheel-drive system, which usually routes about 70 percent of the power to the front wheels, is standard on EcoBoost models and optional on naturally aspirated versions. Ford claims to have significantly quelled the understeer we’ve experienced in the Flex’s chassis, but we’ll have to wait until we get the Lincoln on a skidpad to verify that.

Specifications

VEHICLE TYPE: front-engine, 4-wheel-drive, 6- or 7-passenger, 5-door wagon

PRICE AS TESTED: $51,885 (base price: $49,995)

ENGINE TYPE: twin-turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 24-valve V-6, aluminum block and heads, direct fuel injection

Displacement: 213 cu in, 3490cc
Power (SAE net): 355 bhp @ 5700 rpm
Torque (SAE net): 350 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm

TRANSMISSION: 6-speed automatic with manumatic shifting

DIMENSIONS:
Wheelbase: 117.9 in Length: 207.6 in Width: 76.0 in Height: 67.4 in Curb weight: 4957 lb

C/D TEST RESULTS:
Zero to 60 mph: 6.1 sec
Zero to 100 mph: 15.4 sec
Zero to 120 mph: 25.7 sec
Street start, 5–60 mph: 6.7 sec
Standing ¼-mile: 14.6 sec @ 97 mph
Top speed (govonerlimited): 123 mph
Braking, 70–0 mph: 196 ft
Roadholding, 300-ft-dia skidpad: 0.76 g


FUEL ECONOMY:
EPA city/highway driving: 16/22 mpg
C/D observed: 21 mpg

+ 2009 Detroit Live: 2010 Lincoln MKT Luxury
+ 2009 Lincoln MKS Showcased in 51st Grammy Awards
+ 2010 Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKS to Get EcoBoost Engine
+ 2010 Buick LaCrosse Offers Four-Cylinder


Don’t Shout, I Can Hear You Just Fine

Other than the goofy proportions and polarizing snout, perhaps the most immediately noteworthy thing about the MKT is how pleasant it is inside its cabin. The interior is serenely quiet, even at triple-digit speeds, thanks to heaps of sound deadening; laminated, thicker windows; and aerodynamic tuning that included optimizing the shape of the side mirrors. Considering the vehicles’ preproduction status, build quality seems very good, and the materials, from the Scottish leather and genuine wood trim to the soft-touch plastics, feel competitive in the segment. For added ambience, Ford’s twin-panel panoramic Vista Roof is standard on all models, although if you want it to open, you’ll have to pay more.

The MKT’s seats are cushy but not particularly supportive—it is a cruiser, after all. The driver faces a clear and attractive gauge cluster with chrome accents, and both front occupants enjoy the flowing, uncluttered center console and a sharp, eight-inch touch-screen interface. When you’ve had enough near-silence, there’s a 10-speaker stereo as standard, as well as an optional 14-speaker, THX II–certified 5.1 surround-sound system that is bundled with the power roof option and voice-activated navigation as a $4000 package. A second-row DVD entertainment system with seven-inch monitors in the backs of the front headrests costs $1995. For a full limo experience, you can opt for second-row heated and cooled bucket seats ($995) that can be accompanied by a full-length center console complete with a small refrigerator/freezer ($895).

Whether you need the standard three-across bench or spring for the twin buckets, there is tons of room in the second row. The rocker panels have been integrated into the doors, reducing the width of the door sill and greatly improving ingress and egress. The second-row seats tumble forward—by power, if you opt for the buckets—leaving a large opening and a low step-over height for rearmost occupants. Third-row riders will need to be vertically challenged, however; foot, leg, and shoulder room are plentiful back there, but the sloping rear glass greatly limits headroom. If no one you know fits, at least the seats can be easily stowed out of the way to form a flat load floor, and they’ll be available with a power-folding function ($595) later this year.

It Parks Itself and Actually Does It Well

Of the plethora of advanced technologies available on the MKT, Ford’s active park assist ($595) is by far the coolest. Similar to the technology offered on certain Volkswagens in Europe—but unlike the system offered on the Lexus LS, since this actually works—the park assist employs electric power steering and sonar sensors to find and guide the vehicle into a suitable parallel parking spot. No steering required. Simply press the console-mounted button, drive past a potential spot, and wait for the system to beep, telling you your MKT will fit. Then engage reverse and control the throttle. The car works the steering, slipping perfectly into the gap while you gauge the distance to the car behind with the backup sensors and camera. All that’s left is to put it in drive and let the system pull forward and straighten out the car.

Active park assist also will be available on the 2010 MKS (and several other Ford models), which was the model on which we evaluated the system. The technology worked flawlessly every time, and on a larger vehicle with worse visibility—the MKT, for example—this could make urban commuting much easier and save wheels and tires from curb abuse.

The list of technologies and features standard on all MKTs is impressive. It includes keyless access, push-button starting, adaptive HID headlights with auto high-beam control, rain-sensing wipers, blind-spot monitoring, a reverse camera, convex secondary lenses in the door mirrors, Sync voice communication with Bluetooth, and the MyKey configurable watchdog that can disable or limit certain vehicle functions. Electronic stability control and a full boat of front, side, and curtain airbags also are standard. Adaptive cruise control with collision warning and brake assist ($1295) is one of the few major options.

Pricey but Impressive

At $49,995, the MKT with EcoBoost is not cheap, but the price is competitive with or less than that of most V-8–powered three-row luxury crossovers. This model’s amount of standard equipment is extensive and is shared with the base MKT, which starts at $44,995 with front-wheel drive and a 268-hp, 3.7-liter V-6. (We didn’t get to sample that model.) All-wheel drive adds another $1995 to the base sticker, but at that point we’d recommend stepping up to the EcoBoost with its additional 87 hp and specific content. We’re looking forward to a more extensive test, but we don’t need track numbers and hundreds of miles to know that this is one of the most surprisingly competent Lincolns we’ve sampled in a long time.

Paris 2008: Mini crossover

Mini showed a prototype of crossover in retro-style! It's beautiful!