Lincoln

The Upside of Lincoln: Where the Brand Shines

Lincoln's current strengths lie in its focus on comfort and quietness. Their vehicles often feature well-appointed interiors with plush seating, ample sound insulation, and a smooth, composed ride. Lincoln is also making strides in technology, with user-friendly infotainment systems and advanced driver-assistance features. Furthermore, Lincoln often offers competitive pricing compared to some of its luxury rivals, providing a decent value for the features offered. Many reviewers also rate Lincoln's customer service very highly, providing a more personal touch than many competitors.

The Downside of Lincoln: Where it Falls Short

Despite its progress, Lincoln still faces some challenges. Brand perception remains a hurdle, as it's still shedding its outdated image and striving to attract younger buyers. While Lincolns are comfortable, they generally don't offer the same level of performance and handling as their German or even some Japanese competitors. The most significant concern for many buyers is resale value. Lincolns tend to depreciate faster than many other luxury brands, which can mean a significant financial hit when it's time to sell or trade-in.

Lincoln's Model Lineup: Notable Cars

Lincoln's current lineup consists exclusively of SUVs. The Navigator is the brand's flagship full-size luxury SUV, offering a spacious and opulent interior, powerful engine options, and impressive towing capacity. The Aviator is a three-row mid-size luxury SUV that shares its platform with the Ford Explorer but features more luxurious appointments and a distinct design. The Nautilus is a mid-size two-row luxury SUV, while the Corsair is a compact luxury SUV that competes with vehicles like the BMW X3 and Audi Q3. It's worth noting that many recent Lincoln models have received positive reviews for their design, comfort, and technology.

The Black Label Trim: Lincoln's Ultimate Luxury Experience

Lincoln's Black Label trim represents the pinnacle of the brand's luxury offerings. Black Label models feature exclusive interior themes with premium materials, such as Venetian leather and unique wood trims. They also come with added perks and concierge services, such as complimentary car washes, annual detailing, and even culinary experiences.

Buying a Used Lincoln: Things to Consider

The used Lincoln market can offer significant value due to the brand's faster depreciation. However, it's essential to research the specific model and year for any known reliability issues. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is always recommended. Service records can provide valuable insights into the vehicle's maintenance history. Be aware that some older Lincoln models may have outdated technology features. The MKZ was a popular sedan option for Lincoln before they switched to an all SUV lineup.

The Lincoln Dealership Experience

Lincoln is working to elevate its dealership experience to better compete with established luxury brands. Many dealerships have been renovated and offer more personalized services, such as concierge support and vehicle delivery. However, the overall experience may still vary depending on the specific location.

Clutsh's Take on Lincoln

Lincoln is a brand on the rise, offering a compelling alternative to the traditional luxury players. Their vehicles are genuinely comfortable, well-equipped, and often more affordable than their rivals. However, the resale value issue is a significant factor to consider. Lincoln is an excellent choice for buyers who prioritize a smooth, quiet ride, a luxurious interior, and advanced technology, and who are less concerned about sporty handling or brand prestige. If you're looking for a comfortable and well-appointed luxury SUV, Lincoln deserves a look. But be prepared for potentially higher depreciation, and make sure you're getting a good deal upfront to offset that. It's a brand that's often overlooked, but one that can offer a rewarding ownership experience for the right buyer. A used Lincoln can be a great way to get a relatively new car for far less than the original MSRP.

Lincoln's Closest Competitors

Lincoln competes with a wide range of luxury brands, including Cadillac, Lexus, Acura, Infiniti, Volvo, and entry-level models from BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi. It also faces competition from higher-end versions of mainstream brands like Buick, Hyundai (with its Genesis brand), and even Ford, with its higher trim levels.