2020 Lincoln Continental

Lincoln is Ford’s luxury brand, and most Lincoln models are fancier, quieter versions of existing Ford SUVs. The Lincoln Navigator, for example, is based on the Ford Expedition, and the Lincoln Corsair is based on the Ford Escape. Some models are available as hybrids. Lincoln SUVs tend to come with standard leather seating surfaces, large screens, and sound deadening. That interior quality paired with lively powertrains have earned some models Consumer Reports’ recommendation. Lincoln stopped building sedans when it discontinued the Continental and MKZ in 2020. As a brand, for new and used car reliability, road-test scores, and owner satisfaction ratings, Lincoln tends to be average.

Based on the accomplished Lincoln MKZ, the Continental is a high-tech flagship sedan. The base engine is a lackluster 3.7-liter V6. The 2.7-liter twin-turbo V6, however, packs a lot of punch. The top-level gets a 400-hp, 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6. Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive optional. The ride is very comfortable, and the cabin is super-quiet. Handling is responsive, but the car is intended to be a relaxed cruiser. The cabin is nicely finished and very roomy, particularly in the back. The standard front seats look unusual and compromise support. We're no fans of the push-button gear selector and the electronic buttons that are used instead of an interior door handle.