Lincoln crossover concept video hits the web

Lincoln has released a video that previews a concept vehicle that could be the next MKX crossover. The short spot gives a glimpse of a large four-door luxury crossover with long rear doors and a relatively short cargo section in the back.

The video gives little clue as to the concept's true dimensions, though it appears likely that this concept is previewing a second-generation MKX, to replace the model which has been on sale since 2006. The packaging and dimensions of the unnamed concept seen in the brief video appear to track the first-generation MKX pretty closely, and the new concept features a relatively familiar Lincoln corporate grille, with LED turn indicators integrated into the headlight surrounds and side mirrors.

The first-generation Lincoln MKX was a heavily redesigned version of the Ford Edge featuring a front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive layout coupled with Ford's 3.5 liter V6 engine. The MKX was facelifted for 2011, receiving an updated front fascia and some new tech for the cabin.

The video was released just before the start of the China auto show in Beijing, which will serve as the rollout of the Lincoln brand in China with sales starting this fall. The Chinese car market, now the world's largest, has become tremendously important for luxury automakers, though Lincoln hasn't dipped its toe in the water until now. Among American luxury brands, Buick has enjoyed unprecedented success in China, the source and reasons for which are still not completely understood. Cadillac has also enjoyed moderate levels of success.

Lincoln may take the opportunity to show the unnamed concept at the Beijing motor show, which opens April 20, alongside a number of other existing models which will debut in the Chinese market.

By Jay Ramey