2019 Lincoln Continental: An Overview
The 2019 Lincoln Continental continues its legacy as a sophisticated and comfortable American luxury sedan, blending modern technology with a timeless design. While it may not chase outright sportiness, it excels in delivering a serene and opulent driving experience, making it a compelling choice for those who prioritize refinement and a quiet cabin.
Highlights
- Engine & Performance: The Continental offered two distinct powertrain options for 2019, both designed for smooth power delivery rather than aggressive acceleration.
- 2.7L Twin-Turbocharged V6: This standard engine provided ample power for daily driving and comfortable highway cruising, offering a good balance of performance and efficiency.
- 3.0L Twin-Turbocharged V6: The more potent option, this engine delivered a noticeable boost in horsepower and torque, providing more effortless acceleration and a more engaging feel for those seeking a bit more zest. Both engines were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
- Safety Features: Lincoln prioritized occupant safety with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, many of which were standard or widely available across the trims.
- Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB): This system utilizes sensors to detect potential frontal collisions with vehicles or pedestrians. If a collision is imminent and the driver doesn't react, the system can automatically apply the brakes to help mitigate or avoid an accident.
- Lane-Keeping System: This technology helps prevent unintended lane departures by monitoring lane markings. If the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane without the turn signal activated, the system can provide steering assistance to guide the vehicle back into its lane.
- Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross-Traffic Alert: BLIS monitors the blind spots on either side of the vehicle and alerts the driver with a visual indicator in the side mirror if a vehicle is detected. Cross-Traffic Alert warns of approaching traffic from the sides when the vehicle is backing out of a parking space.
- Adaptive Cruise Control: This advanced cruise control system not only maintains a set speed but also automatically adjusts it to keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, making highway driving more relaxed.
- Trim Summary: The 2019 Continental was offered in a few distinct trim levels, each building upon the previous with increasing levels of luxury and technology.
- Continental: The entry-level trim provided a well-appointed and comfortable experience, featuring premium materials and a solid foundation of technology.
- Reserve: This trim elevated the luxury with even more upscale interior appointments, advanced comfort features, and a wider array of available technologies.
- Black Label: The pinnacle of the Continental lineup, the Black Label trim offered an ultra-luxurious experience with exclusive interior themes, premium materials, a concierge service, and other bespoke benefits.
- Other Notable Aspects:
- Spacious and Serene Interior: The Continental is renowned for its exceptionally quiet and comfortable cabin. Ample legroom for both front and rear passengers, combined with high-quality materials and excellent sound deadening, creates a tranquil sanctuary.
- Comfort-Focused Ride: The suspension is tuned for a smooth and composed ride, effectively absorbing road imperfections. This makes the Continental an excellent choice for long-distance journeys.
- Elegant and Distinctive Styling: The Continental's design is a standout, with a bold grille, elegant profile, and distinctive Lincoln styling cues that set it apart from many of its German and Japanese rivals.
- Lincoln Drive Control: This system allows drivers to select different driving modes (e.g., Comfort, Sport, Normal) which adjust steering feel, throttle response, and suspension settings to tailor the driving experience.
What to Expect
Owning a 2019 Lincoln Continental is typically characterized by a smooth and refined ownership experience. Owners can anticipate a comfortable and quiet daily commute, with the car effortlessly gliding over most road surfaces. The spacious interior ensures passengers remain relaxed, even on longer drives.
Maintenance: Like most luxury vehicles, the Continental will require regular scheduled maintenance. This includes routine oil changes, filter replacements, tire rotations, and inspections of various fluid levels and components. While the cost of maintenance might be higher than non-luxury brands, Lincoln's reputation for reliability in its more recent models suggests that major repairs might not be excessively common. It's advisable to consult the owner's manual for specific maintenance schedules and consider using a Lincoln dealership or a reputable independent mechanic specializing in luxury vehicles.
Insurance: Insurance premiums for a luxury sedan like the Continental are generally higher than for more common vehicles. Factors such as the vehicle's value, its safety features, the cost of parts and repairs, and the driver's record will influence the final insurance cost. It's recommended to obtain quotes from multiple insurance providers to find the best coverage at a competitive price.
Potential Considerations
While the 2019 Lincoln Continental excels in comfort and luxury, there are a few points buyers might want to be aware of:
- Handling and Agility: The Continental is not designed to be a sports sedan. While its handling is competent and predictable, it lacks the sharp responses and engaging feel of some competitors. Those seeking a more dynamically rewarding driving experience might find it less appealing.
- Fuel Economy: The twin-turbocharged V6 engines, while powerful, are not the most fuel-efficient in their class, especially the more powerful 3.0L option. Drivers prioritizing maximum fuel savings might want to consider this.
- Infotainment System: While Lincoln's SYNC 3 infotainment system is generally user-friendly, some reviewers have noted that its interface might feel slightly less intuitive or modern compared to the very latest systems offered by competitors.
- Rear-Wheel Drive Bias (for some trims/options): While available with all-wheel drive, if opting for a rear-wheel-drive configuration, performance in slippery conditions might be more limited without the added traction.
Overall Summary
The 2019 Lincoln Continental stands as a compelling choice for those seeking a large, comfortable, and stylish luxury sedan. It prioritizes a serene and opulent driving experience, making it an excellent companion for daily commutes and long-distance travel. With its potent engine options, extensive suite of safety features, and elegantly appointed interior, the Continental offers a distinctively American take on luxury. While it may not be the choice for the performance enthusiast, it undeniably delivers on its promise of refined comfort and sophisticated presence.