The Lincoln Continental X 2.7 V6 AWD Automatic, introduced for the 2016 model year, represented a significant attempt by Lincoln to recapture the luxury sedan market in the United States. This variant occupied the mid-to-upper range of the Continental lineup, offering a blend of performance, technology, and comfort. It was part of the tenth generation of the Continental, a nameplate with a storied history dating back to the 1930s. The “X” designation denoted a specific trim level, positioned above the base model but below the more opulent Reserve trim. The Continental X aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a sophisticated, American-made luxury vehicle with modern features and a powerful engine.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lincoln |
| Model | Continental |
| Generation | Continental X |
| Type (Engine) | 2.7 V6 (335 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg, 7.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg, 30.1 UK mpg, 10.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.8 l/100 km (19.9 US mpg, 23.9 UK mpg, 8.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.1 kg/Hp, 163.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4 kg/Nm, 251 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 | 10.4 l (10.99 US qt | 9.15 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2052 kg (4523.89 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.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| 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), Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 255/45 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Continental X 2.7 was Ford’s EcoBoost 2.7-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine. This engine, part of Ford’s EcoBoost family, was notable for its combination of forced induction and direct fuel injection. The engine code is often associated with the Ford F-150, demonstrating its versatility. The twin-turbochargers, coupled with intercooling, provided a broad torque curve and responsive acceleration. The engine utilized a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with Ti-VCT (Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing), optimizing valve timing for improved efficiency and performance. The 2.7L engine produced 335 horsepower at 5700 rpm and 380 lb-ft of torque at 3000 rpm. This power was channeled through a six-speed automatic transmission, specifically tuned for smooth shifts and comfortable cruising. The all-wheel-drive system, standard on the X trim, further enhanced traction and stability, particularly in inclement weather.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.7L EcoBoost engine delivered a noticeably more spirited driving experience compared to the base 3.7L V6 offered in lower Continental trims. While not a sports sedan, the Continental X provided ample power for confident highway merging and passing maneuvers. The automatic transmission, while generally smooth, wasn’t particularly quick to downshift, which could be noticeable during aggressive driving. The all-wheel-drive system provided a secure feel, especially in slippery conditions. The suspension was tuned for comfort, prioritizing a smooth ride over sharp handling. Compared to the higher-output 3.0L V6 turbo found in the Reserve trim, the 2.7L offered a more balanced approach, sacrificing some outright performance for improved fuel economy and a slightly lower price point.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Continental X trim included a generous array of standard features. Interior appointments included leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a power-adjustable steering column, and a premium audio system. Technology features included a centrally-mounted 8-inch touchscreen display with Lincoln’s SYNC 3 infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of driver-assistance technologies such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras included a rear-seat entertainment system, a panoramic sunroof, and upgraded leather trim packages. The X trim aimed to provide a luxurious experience without the full cost of the Reserve model.
Chassis & Braking
The Continental X utilized an independent McPherson strut front suspension and an independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup prioritized ride comfort and isolation from road imperfections. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) and electronic stability control were standard. The steering was electric power-assisted, providing a light and easy steering feel. The chassis was designed to provide a quiet and refined driving experience, with extensive sound insulation to minimize road and wind noise.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the Continental X for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and powerful engine. However, some reviewers noted that the infotainment system could be occasionally laggy and that the handling wasn’t as engaging as some of its European competitors. Fuel economy was rated at around 19 mpg combined, which was respectable for a large luxury sedan but not class-leading. Compared to the base Continental, the 2.7L EcoBoost engine offered a significant performance upgrade. Compared to the 3.0L V6 Reserve trim, the 2.7L provided a more affordable entry point into the Continental lineup, albeit with slightly less power and some missing luxury features.
Legacy
The Lincoln Continental X 2.7 V6 AWD Automatic, while not a runaway sales success, represented a commendable effort by Lincoln to revitalize its flagship sedan. The 2.7L EcoBoost engine proved to be a reliable and capable powerplant, and examples on the used car market generally hold up well with proper maintenance. The combination of power, comfort, and technology made it an appealing option for buyers seeking a uniquely American luxury experience. While the Continental was discontinued after the 2020 model year, the 2.7L EcoBoost engine continues to be used in various Ford and Lincoln vehicles, demonstrating its enduring design and performance capabilities.
