By Nauman Farooq
Most cars give a preference to the driver’s seat – after all, that is where the buyer of a vehicle spends most of their time in. However, there are some cars that are more suited to ride in, rather than drive!
That is what Lincoln wants to offer some buyers of their flagship sedan, the Continental RSP – which stands for, Rear Seat Package.
So, both passengers in the rear seating area can recline their seatbacks, have their backs heated or cooled, and can even get a massage as you cover distances. What’s more, the occupant sitting behind the front passenger, can even choose to electronically push the front seat away to create more legroom – if there is no one seated there, of course.
So, the Continental RSP is like a little limo -and correct me if I’m wrong- the only car in its class that offers this level of luxury. This means, covering distances is like a pampered day at the spa!
But, the Continental RSP hasn’t forgotten about the driver and front passenger, either. So, even the front chairs are fully adjustable –in more ways than you’d expect- and also offers heating and cooling, plus the massaging function.
So, the Continental RSP is as comfortable for the driver, as it is for the passenger, but what’s it like to drive?
Well, as you’d expect, it is a really comfortable vehicle, and thankfully, it is not one of those vehicles that try to be anything and everything! This is a luxury car, that’s it – no Nurburgring lap times for this sedan.
However, it does offer your some option when it comes to power! Base motor is a 2.7L twin-turbo V6, which produces 335 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque. In the American market, you can get this engine in just front-wheel drive configuration, but in Canada, all Continental models only get all-wheel drive – which suits our climate better.
My tester had the optional engine, a 3.0L twin-turbo V6, which produces 400 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque.
The only gearbox offered on the Continental at the time is a six-speed automatic, and while it is a smooth transmission, its shifts are not quick, and only having six-ratios means it isn’t as fuel economical as its competition – I averaged 12.5 L/100 km in my test cycle, which isn’t class leading by any means!
Ride and handling, you ask?
Well, like I mentioned before,
this isn’t a vehicle for going around corners, but it does fairly well. Sure, there is expected body roll, but that’s not a bad thing for a vehicle like this one..
The ride is fantastic, and it just glides over bumps and road imperfections.
Its comfort is truly impressive, and so are its features, and build quality – Lincoln truly got it right with the Continental.
So, if you’re looking for a proper, luxury sedan, that isn’t pretending to be a sports car or an SUV, then the Lincoln Continental would suit you well – pricing starts from $58,150.