2006-2008 Lincoln Zephyr: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Lincoln introduced its smallest car ever for 2006, borrowing its name from a Lincoln model of the 1930s. Equipped with a V12 engine, that early-day Zephyr had given Lincoln--then known mainly for costly luxury motorcars--a first-time presence in the family-sedan market. Younger buyers were the target audience for the revived Zephyr. Sized and priced below Lincoln's rear-wheel-drive LS (which soon would expire), the "entry-level" 2006 Zephyr was essentially a luxury-equipped version of the new front-drive Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan midsize sedans. All three shared their basic architecture with the Mazda 6 from Ford's Japanese affiliate, but the Zephyr weighed about 300 pounds more than a Fusion or Milan. Considered a midsize sedan, the 2006 Zephyr came in a single trim level that included a 221-horsepower V6 engine and six-speed automatic transmission. Standard equipment included antilock braking, traction control, 17-inch alloy wheels, front torso side airbags, and head-protecting curtain side airbags. Leather upholstery and dual-zone climate control were included, too. Only six options were offered. Available were chrome wheels, xenon headlamps, a sunroof, heated/cooled front seats, and a navigation system. Lincoln said the Zephyr could tow more than 3500 pounds. Zephyr's rivals included the Acura TL, Cadillac CTS, Infiniti G35, and Lexus ES 330/350.