Lincoln MKX Concept Bows in Beijing

Lincoln today unveils the MKX Concept at the Beijing auto show, offering a glimpse of the production CUV due to arrive next year as a ’16 model.

The production MKX will be the third of four all-new vehicles due by 2016, and will help bolster the luxury brand’s U.S. and Chinese lineup.

Lincoln designers say they drew inspiration for the concept from airplanes and motorbikes, as well as conducting customer research clinics in the U.S. and China.

“Great emphasis was put on the proportions of this concept vehicle,” Andrea Di Buduo, exterior design manager, says in a statement. “It’s a very emotional, athletic design. Its horizontal lines and defined undercuts are gracefully integrated and very sophisticated, yet convey a powerful and dynamic presence.”

The automaker says intensive study of Chinese luxury customers over the past several years revealed a premium CUV should express off-road capability and sportiness.

Based on the feedback, Lincoln says certain elements were included on the concept, such as a separated front-skid plate, heightened ground clearance, reinforced wheel arches and a floating aluminum body-side rocker molding engraved with the Lincoln logo.

The concept also boasts an aerodynamic, sloping roofline, which Lincoln says gives it a sporty appearance. Enhancing the look are wide shoulders, side undercuts and a high beltline.

The rear is adorned by Lincoln’s signature full-width taillamps, while the front fascia has a toned-down version of the automaker’s split-wing grille.

Lincoln has yet to reveal details on the production MKX’s powertrain, but it likely will be available with a version of Ford’s direct-injected, turbocharged EcoBoost engines.

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