Lincoln C concept

13th January 2009

Want proof that American luxury cars can be small too? Well 'C' for yourself! This is the Lincoln C concept, a surprise show star at Detroit from a company that's traditionally been associated with enormous limousines.

Based on a stretched Ford Focus platform, the Lincoln C has been penned by ex-Volvo designer Peter Horbury with the aim of convincing the American public that luxury cars can be compact too – and it could be a real rival to the MINI and the Audi A1.

Stand-out features are the suicide-style rear doors, large glass areas and pillarless windows.Thanks to a platform that's 100mm wider than that of a regular Focus, the result is a very spacious cabin. Up front are large digital 'infotainment' displays while seats that are raised from the floor and light colours help to create a very airy environment.

Under the bonnet is a 1.6-litre twin-turbocharged four cylinder engine from parent company Ford's new EcoBoost range of direct injection units. The sophisticated powerplant produces 180bhp. Expect to see it in future European Ford models such as the Focus and Mondeo.

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