2006 Lincoln Zephyr in Hazlet, NJ - $3,500

Boasting qualities such as a bold and distinctive exterior design, a rich and inviting interior featuring high-quality materials throughout and a driving experience that can be both luxurious and spirited, Lincoln introduces the 2006 Zephyr sedan to an entirely new generation of consumers.

As a midsize, five passenger sedan, the front-drive Zephyr offers younger buyers a luxury automobile with the comfort and refinement befitting a Lincoln. Incorporating classic elements of Lincoln style, the exterior design incorporates the marque's traditional waterfront grille. Situated between a set of jewel-like, quad projector-beam or optional high-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps, the treatment is readily recognizable as a Lincoln.

Power for the new Lincoln sedan is generated by Duratec 30 V6 engine with torque communicated to the street via a wide-ratio six-speed automatic transmission. This innovative lightweight transmission plays a key role in the Zephyr's performance and smooth operation. The Lincoln sedan also employs electronic throttle control that works with the electronically controlled transmission to ensure seamless shifts.

On the road, the Lincoln sedan is smooth and very responsive at speed. Quiet, solid and sure, the Zephyr delivers an impressive performance on the Interstate and in town.

Tuned for a quiet, comfortable ride with confident, responsive handling, the Lincoln sedan rides on Ford's new CD3 vehicle architecture, which has been modified for the Zephyr chassis. Hardware for the four-wheel independent suspension system employs an advanced short- and long-arm (SLA) design up front, with a rearward-facing lower control arm and coil-over-shock suspension. A multi-link rear suspension features coil-over-shocks and lower control arms. Front (24-mm) and rear (17-mm) stabilizer bars further help to reduce body roll.

Inside the cabin, real wood, high-quality leather and aluminum trim continue Lincoln's reputation for interiors that deliver visual and tactile interest using genuine materials. White eletroluminescent lighting illuminates the round, chrome-ringed gauges, complementing the interior's white lighting, which uses white LEDs to backlight controls and switches at night.

The instrument panel features a horizontal band of contrasting trim in one of four natural surfaces: finely ribbed aluminum, finely ribbed aluminum with a dark finish, dark Ebony wood or light Maple. Occupants are treated to comfortable seating accommodations. Rear seat passengers are treated to more than three feet of legroom.

In addition to carrying people in comfort, Zephyr's roomy trunk boasts a flat load floor and low liftover height with compact decklid hinges that will not crush boxes or groceries. The standard 60/40 split folding rear seats and fold-flat function with spring assist, allow pass-through access to handle extra long items and provide best-in-class storage space.

Quick vehicle stats

Wheelbase: 107.4; overall length: 190.5; width: 72.2; height: 57.2 -- measurements in inches.

Engine: 3.0L V6 -- 221 hp at 6,250 rpm and 205 lbs-ft or torque at 4,800 rpm.

Transmission: six-speed automatic.

EPA fuel economy: 20 city/28 hwy.

Cargo capacity: 15.8 cu. ft.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, electronic brake force distribution, fog lamps, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, remote keyless entry, perimeter anti-theft system, side-curtain airbags, side-intrusion door beams, SecuriLock passive anti-theft system, universal garage door opener, battery saver and traction assist.

Optional safety features include DVD-based navigation system and high-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps.

Warranty

Basic: 4-year/50,000 mile, bumper-to-bumper.

Full maintenance: 1-year/12,000 miles, no charge -- scheduled maintenance.

Corrosion: 5-year/unlimited.

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2006 Lincoln Zephyr sedan starts from $28,995 with destination charges adding $665.

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