The new Lincoln MKT concept revealed by Ford today at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit combines the styling elements of 2007's MKR concept with a crossover body style and the company's new EcoBoost engine.

The MKT is derived from the platform of the upcoming Ford Flex crossover, but is described as a Grand Touring vehicle with ample seating for four passengers.

The MKT is powered by an E85 optimized variant of the EcoBoost 3.5L GTDI V-6 that will debut in the MKS in 2009. The E85 version has increased boost and compression allowing it to produce 415hp and 400lb-ft of torque compared to the 340hp/340lb-ft of the production unit for the MKS.

Ford has already committed to making the entire EcoBoost lineup flex-fuel capable over the next few years. Officials have not indicated if they plan to optimize the engines for ethanol use to produce as much power as the MKT. 

The body of the MKT is made from new plastic resins produced from recycled plastic bottles. The material is made by Sabic Innovative plastics, the same company that produced body panels for the Chevy Volt and Hyundai Qarmaq concepts in 2007.  Design chief Peter Horbury described the MKT as a luxurious tourer that in a production form could easily accommodate up to seven passengers.

JANUARY 2008