Not long after Ford unveiled the Lincoln MKT concept, prototypes of the Flex-based Lincoln crossover started appearing. One year later, the production MKT will be making its debut in Detroit next month, and our friends at The Car Connection have received some shots of nearly ride-ready MKTs out testing.

At first glance, it's clear that the MKT and Flex do not share a whole lot in the way of styling, and that Lincoln's new corporate face is expanding across the model line. (We're not sure if we like the oversized grille, though.) Other subtle design quirks like the upwards slant just after the rear door and a more sloped roof also do the job of separating the MKT from its Flex and MKX siblings.

The Car Connection also shows an interior shot of the MKT, showing a clean and upscale dash design surrounded by what should be some pretty nice materials. Ford's interiors have gotten much better lately, and if this shares anything with the materials in the new Flex or MKS, it will be a hit. Look for the MKT to get Ford's 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 at some point, too. Head over to TCC for the full shots and stay tuned for our coverage of the MKT at the Detroit Show next month.

+ The Car Connection: Spy Shots: 2010 Lincoln MKT