The Lincoln Continental X 3.0 GTDI V6 AWD Automatic, produced from 2016 onwards, represents a revival of the iconic Continental nameplate. This generation, internally designated as the Continental X, aimed to recapture the luxury and prestige associated with the Continental while incorporating modern technology and performance. Positioned as a flagship sedan, the 3.0 GTDI V6 AWD Automatic trim sat at the top of the Continental lineup, offering a blend of power, refinement, and all-weather capability. It was Lincoln’s answer to competitors like the Cadillac XTS, Acura TLX, and Buick LaCrosse, aiming for a more upscale experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lincoln |
| Model | Continental |
| Generation | Continental X |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 GTDI V6 (400 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg, 19.2 UK mpg, 6.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.2 kg/Hp, 193.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.8 kg/Nm, 262.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 400 Hp @ 5750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 135.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 542 Nm @ 2750 rpm (399.76 lb.-ft. @ 2750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Ford EcoBoost |
| Engine displacement | 2956 cm3 (180.39 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 85.4 mm (3.36 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| 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 | 11 l (11.62 US qt | 9.68 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2063 kg (4548.14 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 3.0 GTDI V6 AWD Automatic is Ford’s 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine. This engine, part of the EcoBoost family, utilizes direct fuel injection and twin-turbocharging to deliver a substantial 400 horsepower at 5750 rpm and 542 Nm (399.76 lb-ft) of torque at 2750 rpm. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with variable valve timing (Ti-VCT) for optimized performance and efficiency. The transverse engine layout contributes to improved packaging within the front-wheel-drive-based platform. The six-speed automatic transmission, while not the most modern in terms of gear count compared to some competitors, was tuned for smooth and responsive shifts. It was designed to handle the engine’s substantial torque output and provide a comfortable driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.0 GTDI V6 AWD Automatic Continental delivers a refined and powerful driving experience. The twin-turbocharged engine provides ample acceleration, making highway merging and overtaking effortless. While not a sports sedan, the Continental offers a confident and composed ride. The all-wheel-drive system enhances traction in various weather conditions, providing added stability and security. Compared to lower-trim models with the 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6, the 3.0 GTDI offers a noticeable increase in power and torque, resulting in quicker acceleration and a more engaging driving experience. The six-speed automatic transmission, while smooth, can sometimes feel a bit dated compared to the eight or nine-speed automatics found in some competitors. However, it is generally well-matched to the engine’s power delivery.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Continental X 3.0 GTDI V6 AWD Automatic came standard with a comprehensive list of features, befitting its flagship status. These included leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, a large touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, and a suite of advanced safety features 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 interior trim materials. The interior design emphasized luxury and comfort, with a focus on high-quality materials and a spacious cabin.
Chassis & Braking
The Continental X utilizes an independent McPherson strut front suspension and an independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics. The chassis was tuned to prioritize ride quality over outright sportiness. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) and electronic stability control are standard features, enhancing safety and control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lincoln Continental X 3.0 GTDI V6 AWD Automatic received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. Praise was given for its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. However, some critics noted that the infotainment system could be more intuitive and that the transmission felt a bit dated. Fuel economy, at 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg), was considered average for its class. Compared to the base 2.7-liter EcoBoost model, the 3.0 GTDI offered a significant performance upgrade but came at a higher price point. The all-wheel-drive system provided a competitive advantage in regions with inclement weather.
Legacy
The Lincoln Continental X, while not a massive sales success, represented a significant effort by Lincoln to revitalize its brand and compete in the luxury sedan segment. The 3.0 GTDI V6 AWD Automatic powertrain, while relatively complex with its twin-turbocharging system, has proven to be reasonably reliable in long-term ownership. However, as with any turbocharged engine, regular maintenance and the use of high-quality oil are crucial. On the used car market, these Continentals offer a compelling value proposition for buyers seeking a spacious, well-equipped, and powerful luxury sedan at a more affordable price point than newer models.
