Overview
The 2017 Lincoln Continental is a full-size luxury sedan that returned to the market on an all-new (revived) Continental nameplate for the 2017 model year. It’s aimed at drivers who want a quiet, comfortable cruiser with premium styling, available all-wheel drive, and classic American luxury touches. In its segment, it competes with large luxury sedans by prioritizing ride comfort, cabin isolation, and strong turbocharged V6 power rather than sporty handling. It’s an especially good fit for commuters, long-distance travelers, and buyers who want upscale features without stepping into ultra-high price territory.
Key Features
1) Engine lineup with strong torque: A 3.7L V6 (front-wheel drive) is available on select trims, while most models feature a twin-turbo 2.7L V6 or the more powerful twin-turbo 3.0L V6. Output varies by engine and drivetrain, with the 3.0L twin-turbo offering the quickest acceleration in the range.
2) Available all-wheel drive for year-round confidence: AWD is offered with the turbo V6 engines, improving traction in rain and snow and providing a more planted feel at highway speeds.
3) Upscale cabin comfort and quietness: The 2017 Continental is known for a serene interior, supportive seating, and premium materials, with features like heated and ventilated front seats available depending on trim.
4) Technology and driver assists: Expect modern infotainment, available premium audio, and widely available safety tech such as blind-spot monitoring and driver-assist features depending on equipment.
5) Distinctive design details: Signature lighting and a formal, elegant profile help it stand out among full-size sedans, with a focus on presence and comfort.
Common Issues & Reliability
Searches for 2017 Lincoln Continental problems and 2017 Lincoln Continental reliability often focus on a few repeat themes. Overall reliability can be solid when the car is maintained on schedule, but there are known issues to watch for:
1) Infotainment and electronics glitches: Some owners report touchscreen freezing, Bluetooth/phone pairing issues, camera/parking sensor faults, or intermittent warning messages. These can appear at relatively low mileage (often in the 20,000–60,000 mile range) and may require software updates, module resets, or occasional component replacement.
2) Transmission shift quality concerns: The 6-speed automatic can develop harsh or delayed shifts, especially noticeable during low-speed driving or when moving from a stop. Complaints vary, but symptoms may show up around 40,000–80,000 miles. Fluid condition, adaptive learning resets, and addressing any stored fault codes early can help prevent bigger problems.
3) Turbocharged engine maintenance sensitivities (2.7L/3.0L): The twin-turbo V6 engines are strong performers, but they can be more sensitive to oil quality and service intervals. Owners sometimes report oil seepage, boost-related performance complaints, or cooling-system-related concerns as mileage climbs (often 60,000 miles and up). Not every vehicle is affected, but diligent maintenance matters more on turbo models.
4) Suspension and brake wear on heavier luxury sedans: Due to vehicle weight and driving conditions, some owners experience faster-than-expected brake pad/rotor wear or front-end suspension noises over time. These are common “big sedan” ownership realities rather than unique failures, but they can influence upkeep costs.