2002-2003 Lincoln Blackwood: Road Test

Acceleration is inconsistent: strong off the line, but suffering lazy passing response above 35 mph. A test model accelerated from 0-60 mph in 8.7 seconds. Fuel economy wins no prices, either, and premium-grade gasoline is required. A test Blackwood averaged 13.8 mpg including gas-eating performance tests, and 14.8 mpg in a city/highway mix. Expect a jittery ride on scalloped surfaces, turning jumpy over sharp bumps, despite the Blackwood's unique air-assisted leaf-spring rear suspension. Though body lean is moderate in hard corners, a Blackwood feels as ponderous as most big pickups and is clumsy in tight spots--though the rear-obstacle warning system increases confidence when backing up. Simulated panic stops are swift and sure, but the brake pedal has dull, high-effort action. Quietness is a virtue. Tire noise is well checked, and the nice-sounding engine is noticed only under full throttle. One new test model had low wind noise, but another suffered intrusive wind howl above 60 mph. Inside, the cabin's dark-tint real-wood trim clashes with run-of-the-mill plastic. Borrowed from the humble Ford F-150, the dashboard uses fairly inflexible automatic climate system mounted a fair reach from the driver. Radio controls also demand a reach (though redundant controls are on the steering wheel). The optional navigation system's console-mounted screen is too small and too low for easy viewing. Front-seat space is ample. Drivers enjoy a tilt wheel, power seat, adjustable pedals, plus a two-position memory to save all settings. Internal heating/cooling of the front seats works well. Entry/exit is awkward only for shorter folks, and visibility is clear to all corners. In the back seat, adults ride knees-up if front seats are halfway back, and have hardly any toe space beneath them. Bucket seats are small and poorly bolstered. Lowish step-in height is a benefit, but narrow floor-level passageways hinder entry/exit. Lincoln called the cargo box a 26.5 cubic foot "trunk." Though long, it's neither very wide nor deep, and isn't trimmed for dirty work. The non-removable cover powers up and down without fuss, using the keyfob or cabin buttons, but it does not lift high enough to carry tall objects or provide much side access at its forward end. Rear seats fold in one step, but don't lie flat. Small-items storage is ample, but audio and navigation CD units use up most of the big front center console bin.

Value for the Money
Basically, Blackwood was an ill-conceived, overpriced lifestyle statement that deserved its fate. If nothing else, it was exclusive--far more than intended, judging by sales totals. A Blackwood isn't as comfortable or versatile as any full-size SUV, and lacks 4WD security as well as "real truck" practicality. Blackwoods may have slight collectible appeal as a curiosity, almost like the antique Edsel, but their daily-driving virtues are minimal.