The Lincoln Continental X 3.7 V6 AWD Automatic, produced from 2016 onwards, represents a revival of the iconic Continental nameplate. This generation, built on the CD4 platform shared with the Ford Fusion and MKZ, aimed to recapture the luxury and prestige associated with the Continental lineage, offering a blend of American comfort and modern technology. The 3.7-liter V6 AWD variant occupied a central position in the Continental lineup, serving as a well-equipped and capable all-weather option for buyers seeking a premium full-size sedan. It was positioned above the base model and below the more powerful 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lincoln |
| Model | Continental |
| Generation | Continental X |
| Type (Engine) | 3.7 V6 (305 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 | 6.5 kg/Hp, 153 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 190.6 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 | 1994 kg (4396.02 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 Power Steering |
| Tires size | 235/50 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Continental X 3.7 V6 utilizes Ford’s Cyclone family of engines, specifically the 3.7-liter naturally aspirated V6. This engine, designated as the 3.7L Ti-VCT, features a 60-degree V-angle and employs dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) with variable valve timing (Ti-VCT) on both intake and exhaust valves. The multi-port fuel injection system delivers fuel directly to the intake ports, optimizing combustion efficiency. The engine produces 305 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 280 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine’s transverse mounting and the all-wheel-drive system contribute to balanced handling. The six-speed automatic transmission, a common unit in Ford and Lincoln vehicles of the era, is calibrated for smooth shifts and comfortable cruising. It doesn’t offer manual shifting capabilities.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.7-liter V6, paired with the automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, delivers a refined and comfortable driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the powertrain provides adequate acceleration for everyday driving and highway merging. The all-wheel-drive system enhances traction in inclement weather, providing a secure feel. Compared to the available 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6, the 3.7-liter offers less outright performance, but its naturally aspirated nature provides a more linear power delivery. The six-speed automatic transmission, while smooth, can feel somewhat dated compared to the eight or nine-speed automatics found in more modern vehicles. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency and relaxed cruising rather than aggressive acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Continental X 3.7 V6 AWD Automatic typically came standard with a generous array of features, including leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a power-adjustable steering column, a premium audio system, 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 interior trim materials. The trim level often dictated the availability of certain features, with higher trims offering more luxurious appointments and advanced technology.
Chassis & Braking
The Continental X features an independent front suspension with McPherson struts and an independent rear suspension with coil springs. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. The all-wheel-drive system distributes power to all four wheels, enhancing stability and traction. 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, further enhancing safety.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the Continental X for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and quiet cabin. However, some reviewers noted that the 3.7-liter V6 felt underpowered for a full-size luxury sedan, especially when compared to competitors offering more potent engine options. Fuel economy was also a point of criticism, with the combined fuel consumption of 19 mpg falling short of some rivals. Compared to the 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 Continental, the 3.7-liter offered a more affordable entry point into the Continental lineup, but at the expense of performance. The 3.7L was often seen as a good value for buyers prioritizing comfort and all-weather capability over outright speed.
Legacy
The Lincoln Continental X 3.7 V6 AWD Automatic, while not a sales juggernaut, represents a significant attempt to revive a storied American luxury brand. The 3.7-liter Cyclone V6 engine has proven to be relatively reliable, with few widespread mechanical issues reported. In the used car market, these Continentals offer a compelling value proposition for buyers seeking a spacious, comfortable, and well-equipped full-size sedan. While the model was discontinued after a relatively short production run, it remains a notable chapter in the Continental’s history, showcasing Lincoln’s efforts to blend tradition with modern technology.
