The Lincoln Continental X 3.7 V6 Automatic, produced from 2016 onwards, represents a revival of the iconic Continental nameplate. This generation, built on a front-wheel-drive platform, aimed to blend American luxury with modern technology. The 3.7-liter V6 engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission was positioned as the standard powertrain for the Continental X, offering a balance of performance and fuel efficiency within the lineup. It served as the entry point to the Continental range, with higher trims offering more powerful engine options and enhanced features.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lincoln |
| Model | Continental |
| Generation | Continental X |
| Type (Engine) | 3.7 V6 (305 Hp) 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 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg, 31.4 UK mpg, 11.1 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 | 6.3 kg/Hp, 159.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 198.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 305 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 81.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 380 Nm @ 4000 rpm (280.27 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 7000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Cyclone |
| Engine displacement | 3726 cm3 (227.37 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 95.5 mm (3.76 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86.7 mm (3.41 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, Ti-VCT |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.7 l (10.25 US qt | 8.53 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1916 kg (4224.06 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 | 235/50 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Lincoln Continental X 3.7 V6 utilizes the Ford Cyclone engine family, a naturally aspirated 3.7-liter V6. This engine, designated as the 3.7L Ti-VCT, employs a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with variable valve timing (Ti-VCT) to optimize performance and efficiency. The engine features multi-port fuel injection, delivering fuel directly to the intake ports. The 3.7L Cyclone engine produces 305 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 280 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels. Paired with the engine is a six-speed automatic transmission, chosen for its smooth operation and suitability for the luxury-oriented driving experience. This transmission features a torque converter for smooth launches and gear changes.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.7-liter V6 with the six-speed automatic provides adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration is linear and predictable, making it well-suited for comfortable cruising. Compared to the optional twin-turbocharged 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6, the 3.7L offers less outright power and quicker acceleration. However, the naturally aspirated engine provides a more traditional engine sound and a less complex mechanical layout. The automatic transmission is tuned for smoothness rather than aggressive shifting, prioritizing comfort over sporty responsiveness. The front-wheel-drive configuration contributes to good stability in most conditions, but it doesn’t offer the dynamic handling of rear-wheel-drive alternatives.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The base Continental X 3.7 V6 came standard with a respectable array of features, including leather upholstery, a rearview camera, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and a basic infotainment system. Optional extras included a premium audio system, navigation, heated and ventilated front seats, and advanced driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. Trim levels beyond the base model added features like upgraded leather, wood trim, and more sophisticated technology packages. The interior design focused on a clean, modern aesthetic with a focus on comfort and spaciousness.
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 quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations. Electric power steering provides a light and easy steering feel, further contributing to the comfortable driving experience. The vehicle rides on 18-inch wheels with 235/50 R18 tires.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the Continental X for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and quiet cabin. However, the 3.7-liter V6 engine was often seen as underpowered for a full-size luxury sedan, especially when compared to competitors offering more potent engine options. Fuel economy was considered average for the segment, with the combined rating of around 19.9 US mpg. The 3.7L variant offered a more affordable entry point into the Continental lineup, appealing to buyers prioritizing comfort and value over outright performance. Compared to the 2.7L EcoBoost, the 3.7L offered lower maintenance costs due to its simpler engine design.
Legacy
The Lincoln Continental X 3.7 V6, while not the most powerful or dynamically engaging version of the Continental, represents a solid and reliable powertrain combination. The Cyclone 3.7L V6 engine has a generally good reputation for durability, and the six-speed automatic transmission is known for its smooth operation. In the used car market, these models offer a relatively affordable way to experience the Continental nameplate. Maintenance costs are generally reasonable, and parts availability is good. While not a collector’s item, the 3.7L Continental X remains a viable option for buyers seeking a comfortable and spacious luxury sedan.
