Lincoln just made its big move, trying to see if limousine operators are willing to accept its humongous MKT crossover in place of the traditional, rear-wheel-drive Lincoln Town Car that has been an industry mainstay for more than a decade.
The Lincoln MKT is Ford's candidate for the limo industry.
But it lacks the one thing that limo operators want the most: rear-wheel drive, which they equate with the toughness required for a chauffeur-driven vehicle to hold up in grueling around-the-clock service.
The MKT for limo use was unveiled at the big 2011 International LCT (limousine, charter and tour) Show in Las Vegas. To try to influence thinking, Ford is calling the new model the MKT Town Car -- even though it's not, well, a car:
"The new MKT Town Car will be the best available in the livery industry, working off a solid base as the perfect way to achieve the versatility needed for executive transportation or a night out on the town," said Mark Fields, Ford president of the Americas.
Ford says the higher-riding stance of the Lincoln MKT Town Car also offers easier entry and exit for passengers as well as all-wheel-drive capability. The MKT Town Car uses a standard MKT chassis and is available in both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations.
The heavy-duty limousine chassis will feature standard all-wheel drive for stretched wheelbase limousine conversion of up 10 feet.
The rear seat has moved back by an inch and a half for additional legroom. There is also a switch on the rear passenger side door that allows a rear seat passenger to control the front passenger seat, providing even more legroom if necessary. The three-person rear seat also reclines for an additional level of comfort.
