2013 Lincoln MKZ Packs Vast Retractable Roof

Ford has taken the wraps off of the 2013 Lincoln MKZ, the company's new midsize luxury sedan featuring a vast retractable panoramic roof and the latest iteration of SYNC with MyLincoln Touch. Markedly similar to the MKZ concept shown back in January, the 2013 MKZ pairs a choice of 2.0 four-cylinder, 3.7 V6 or 2.0 hybrid engines – with a choice of front- or all-wheel-drive – with Lincoln Drive Control ride balance, for what the company claims is the smoothest, most dynamic ride to-date.

The first car to be designed by the dedicated team at Ford's Lincoln Design Studio, the 2013 MKZ has a steeply-raked windshield that, along with other flourishes, improve aerodynamic performance by 10-percent over the outgoing model. LED lights front and back – the headlights turning with the steeering – and wing mirrors that have been lifted up on stalks so as to extend the front window glass forward keep the car looking modern.

Safety features, meanwhile, including the Lane Keeping System – a combination of Lane Keeping Aid, Lane Keeping Alert and Driver Assist, with a front-facing camera tracking road markers ahead – together with Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision Warning with Brake Support. There are also various low-range radar sensors for parking assistance, and eight airbags as standard with the option for inflatable rear safety belts.

Inside, there's a button-based shift control and a 10.1-inch driver display, while a second 8-inch touchscreen in the center console handles entertainment, navigation and more. An 11-speaker audio system system is standard – a 700W THX II Certified 14-channel system is an option – along with air filtration, heated front seats (the driver's getting 10-way power control), remote start capabilities and Active Noise Control.

Ford says the new 2013 Lincoln MKZ will go on sale later in the year. Pricing is yet to be confirmed.