If you read through the history book of Lincoln, you'll find mid-size and large luxury vehicles which are generally sort of soft and harmless all around. However, the Ford Motor Company wants the Lincoln brand to also produce some small car luxury offerings, and the first example of this comes via the C Concept -- a small hatchback based off of the next-generation Focus platform. Peter Horbury, executive director of design for the Americas says, "Modern luxury buyers who live and work in large, urban areas want to play their part in helping the environment by moving to a smaller vehicle, but they still want to enjoy the luxuries of life. The Lincoln C offers sensible indulgence."
Powering the C Concept is a 1.6-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine mated to an all-new, dry, dual-clutch PowerShift six-speed transmission. This engine is said to produce 180 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque and will allow the C to achieve fuel economy figures as high as 43 miles per gallon on the highway.
Inside, the C Concept takes cues from Lincoln designs of the past: a bright, clean color palette with authentic wood and metal materials, jewel-like chrome details, and a symmetrical instrument panel design. Additionally, laser-engraved floral etching can be found on the passenger side seats and floor, as well as on the back of the driver's seat. Lincoln says that this pattern gives the C Concept a refined, sophisticated look.
There's no official word as to if/when the C Concept would see the light of day, but with America's new commitment to smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles, we wouldn't rule out seeing a Lincoln-branded small car somewhere in the very near future. Click through our gallery of shots above and click through the post to read Lincoln's official press release.
