Lincoln have revealed their latest concept (the MKZ) on the NAIAS to give voice to their intentions for the future design path they are willing to take. The MKZ Concept showcases "elegant simplicity" and unconventional luxury.

Looking at the pictures we can see what they mean. First impressions come from the brandy-colored exterior which, Lincoln say, consists of a dense base coating and a multitude of clear-coat varnish. The MKZ's superstructure comprises of materials such as baron and aluminum. The overlaying, smooth roofline (which houses a panoramic window trough and trough) sort of conceals the fact that this is in fact a sedan which normally consists of three boxes. The seemingly organic profile takes an aerodynamic feel with ease. Recognizable Lincoln features however, do not go unnoticed – the grille, although very conceptual, still retains the image of a split-wing-like entity first seen on the 1938 Lincoln Zephyr.

Lincoln MKZ Concept Detroit (2012)

Lincoln MKZ Concept Detroit (2012) - picture 1 of 7
Lincoln MKZ Concept Detroit (2012) - picture 2 of 7
Lincoln MKZ Concept Detroit (2012) - picture 3 of 7
Lincoln MKZ Concept Detroit (2012) - picture 4 of 7
Lincoln MKZ Concept Detroit (2012) - picture 5 of 7
Lincoln MKZ Concept Detroit (2012) - picture 6 of 7
Lincoln MKZ Concept Detroit (2012) - picture 7 of 7

Lincoln MKZ Concept (2012) - picture 1 of 18
Lincoln MKZ Concept (2012) - picture 2 of 18
Lincoln MKZ Concept (2012) - picture 3 of 18
Lincoln MKZ Concept (2012) - picture 4 of 18
Lincoln MKZ Concept (2012) - picture 5 of 18
Lincoln MKZ Concept (2012) - picture 6 of 18
Lincoln MKZ Concept (2012) - picture 7 of 18
Lincoln MKZ Concept (2012) - picture 8 of 18

Inside, a blend of poplar wood, aluminum and leather complements the bold outer design. The beverage themed hues continue as 'champagne-colored' seats show off their 'champagne perforation patterns' (something about the stitching that makes them look fizzy with bubbles just like a champagne glass). The four-seated saloon is airy and inviting that makes use of some cleverness -  push-button transmission gear selection, a 10-inch MyLincoln Touch screen for the driver as well as an 8-inched one in the middle.

For power, the MKZ will most probably utilize the MKS and MKT EcoBoost engines, which come with Drive Control. The suspension will also make use of Lincoln's Continuously Controlled Damping (CCD) system. Drivetrains setups include both FWD and AWD.

Source: Lincoln