2006 Lincoln Zephyr Photo Gallery

Upscale family sedans are proliferating. From Acura TLs to Volvo S60s and Volkswagen Passats, the once square family hauler is now sporty, sleek, potentially loaded, and some might even say fun. Among the current mix of such vehicles are three domestics – the Cadillac CTS, the Chrysler 300, and Lincoln’s own outgoing LS. For 2006, that figure jumps to four with the addition of the Lincoln Zephyr, a more sophisticated version of the lauded Ford Fusion. However, as is befitting for the premium brand’s nameplate, the 2006 Lincoln Zephyr comes with a well-crafted wood and leather interior, a long list of standard convenience and safety features, exclusive options, a better warranty, and a starting price that’s less than the competitors’.

Pricing

The 2006 Lincoln Zephyr starts at $29,660, including a $665 destination charge. Company officials expect most buyers to be in their late 30s/early 40s, an equal split of men and women, and an expected 45 percent will trade out of competing brands.

Wheels

In stock form the 2006 Lincoln Zephyr comes with machined, eight-spoke, 17-inch alloy wheels rolling on 225/70 Michelin Energy tires. Eight-spoke chrome alloy wheels, also measuring 17 inches, are optional.

Hardware

Engineers have outfitted the 2006 Lincoln Zephyr with a fully independent suspension featuring coil-over shocks and front and rear stabilizer bars. The capable braking system includes ventilated discs at all four corners, equipped with ABS, traction control, electronic brake force distribution, and electronic brake assistance systems. Stability control and all-wheel-drive capability are expected to arrive for a subsequent model year.

Powertrain

Powering the 2006 Lincoln Zephyr is a 3.0-liter, 24-valve, dual overhead cam Duratec V6. Horsepower peaks at 221 at 6,250 rpm and torque reaches 205 lb.-ft. at 4,800 rpm. A six-speed automatic transmission gets power to the ground through the front wheels.

Design

Though the overall shape is identical, designers used a variety of details to distinguish the 2006 Lincoln Zephyr from lesser Ford and Mercury models. Front and rear fascias are new, as are the gargantuan taillights and wedged headlights with incorporated side markers. Those unique front and rear lights required that the Zephyr be outfitted with its own front fenders and rear quarter panels, further distinguishing the Lincoln from other Ford Motor Company examples. The rear is finished off with two chrome exhaust tips that feed from one muffler, while the chrome grille in front pays homage to Lincolns of old.

Interior

Soft, perforated leather covers the 2006 Lincoln Zephyr’s seats and a nice mesh material is found on the pillars and overhead. Real wood, either maple or ebony, decorates the dash and door panels, and coordinates with leather to dress the steering wheel. Graphite-colored plastic is featured on the door panels, shift knob surround, and instrument panel, while gauge rings and door handles are finished in chrome. The Zephyr’s tall, flat dash mirrors that found in the Ford F-150 and Mustang, from the flat top to the straight center stack and round air vents. However, unlike those models the Lincoln adds an upscale analog clock.

Ergonomics

In terms of ergonomics, all of the oft-used controls are within close reach and are clearly marked. Equally impressive is the 2006 Zephyr’s practicality – storage provisions are numerous, and the rear seat splits and folds for expansion of the 15.8 cubic-foot trunk.

Features

Every 2006 Lincoln Zephyr comes standard with automatic headlights, dual-zone automatic climate control, a compass, a tire inflation monitor, and real ebony or light maple wood trim on the dash, door panels, and steering wheel. Also included as standard equipment are power adjustable and heated front seats, automatic dimming interior and exterior mirrors, a tilting and telescoping steering wheel, steering wheel controls, and leather seats.

Options

Options for the 2006 Lincoln Zephyr include 17-inch chrome alloy wheels, high intensity discharge headlights, a power moonroof, perforated leather seats with a cooling feature, a DVD navigation system, and a 14-spkeaker, 600-watt THX-II sound system with an MP3 player, six-disc CD changer, and two subwoofers.

Warranty

The 2006 Lincoln Zephyr is backed by four years or 50,000 miles of basic warranty coverage, four years or 50,000 miles of powertrain coverage, and five years and unlimited miles of corrosion protection.