The Lincoln Continental X 2.7 V6 Automatic, produced from 2016 onwards, represents a revival of the iconic Continental nameplate. This iteration, built on the CD4 platform shared with the Ford Fusion and MKZ, aimed to recapture some of the luxury and prestige associated with the Continental lineage, while offering modern technology and performance. Positioned as a mid-to-upper trim level within the Continental range, the 2.7 V6 offered a step up in power and refinement compared to the base 3.7L V6 engine, but remained more accessible than the top-tier Reserve trim with its optional all-wheel drive. It was primarily marketed towards American consumers seeking a comfortable, spacious, and relatively powerful luxury sedan.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lincoln |
| Model | Continental |
| Generation | Continental X |
| Type (Engine) | 2.7 V6 (335 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg, 7.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.9 kg/Hp, 170 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.8 kg/Nm, 261.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 335 Hp @ 5700 rpm |
| Power per litre | 124.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 515 Nm @ 3500 rpm (379.84 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6500 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Ford EcoBoost |
| Engine displacement | 2688 cm3 (164.03 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, Ti-VCT |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10.3 l (10.88 US qt | 9.06 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1971 kg (4345.31 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 473 l (16.7 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 68 l (17.96 US gal | 14.96 UK gal) |
| Length | 5116 mm (201.42 in.) |
| Width | 1913 mm (75.31 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2090 mm (82.28 in.) |
| Height | 1486 mm (58.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2995 mm (117.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1605 mm (63.19 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1628 mm (64.09 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.73 m (41.77 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system), Power steering Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 255/45 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Continental X 2.7 V6 is Ford’s EcoBoost 2.7-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine. This engine, part of Ford’s EcoBoost family, utilizes direct fuel injection and a sophisticated twin-turbocharger setup to deliver both power and efficiency. The engine code is typically associated with the Ford platform, and variations exist depending on the specific application. The valvetrain employs a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) design with Ti-VCT (Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing), allowing for precise control of valve timing to optimize performance and fuel economy. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The 6-speed automatic transmission, while not the most modern unit available at the time, was chosen for its smooth operation and reliability. It features a torque converter for smooth launches and gear changes. The transmission is tuned to prioritize comfort and refinement over aggressive shifting.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.7L EcoBoost engine provides a noticeable step up in performance compared to the base 3.7L V6. With 335 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque, the Continental X 2.7 V6 offers brisk acceleration and ample power for highway passing. The twin-turbochargers minimize turbo lag, providing a relatively linear power delivery. However, it doesn’t possess the outright sportiness of some European rivals. The 6-speed automatic transmission contributes to a comfortable driving experience, but its gear ratios are geared towards fuel efficiency rather than maximizing performance. Compared to a potential higher-output version or a manual transmission (not offered on this model), the 2.7L automatic prioritizes ease of use and refinement.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Continental X 2.7 V6 typically came standard with features such as leather upholstery, a rearview camera, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and a premium audio system. Optional extras included a navigation system, adaptive cruise control, a panoramic sunroof, and upgraded interior trim materials. The X trim level generally offered a balance of luxury and value, providing a comfortable and well-equipped interior without the higher price tag of the Reserve trim. Interior upholstery was typically leather, with wood or aluminum trim accents available. The dashboard featured a central touchscreen display for infotainment and vehicle settings.
Chassis & Braking
The Continental X 2.7 V6 utilizes an independent McPherson strut front suspension and an independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The vehicle is equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and electric power steering. Stabilizer bars are present on both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension tuning is biased towards comfort, prioritizing a smooth and relaxed driving experience.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the Continental X 2.7 V6 for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and powerful engine. However, some reviewers noted that the handling wasn’t as sharp as some of its European competitors. Fuel economy was considered average for its class. Compared to the base 3.7L V6, the 2.7L EcoBoost offered a significant performance upgrade, justifying the higher price. Compared to the Reserve trim with its optional all-wheel drive, the 2.7L offered a more affordable entry point into the Continental lineup. Reliability reports have been mixed, with some owners reporting issues with the infotainment system and occasional engine-related concerns.
Legacy
The Lincoln Continental X 2.7 V6 represents a chapter in the Continental’s revival story. While the model ultimately didn’t achieve the sales success Lincoln hoped for, it offered a compelling combination of luxury, performance, and technology. The 2.7L EcoBoost engine proved to be a capable and reliable powerplant, and the 6-speed automatic transmission provided a smooth and comfortable driving experience. On the used car market, these Continentals offer a relatively affordable way to experience a full-size American luxury sedan. Long-term reliability appears to be generally good, although potential buyers should be aware of the possibility of infotainment system issues and should ensure that all scheduled maintenance has been performed.
