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In 1996, Lincoln unveiled the Sentinel, a concept car that took the automotive world by storm at the North American International Auto Show. Combining classic Lincoln styling with Ford's innovative 'New Edge' design philosophy, the Sentinel was a bold reimagining of luxury on four wheels.
Lincoln has always been synonymous with design elegance, from the iconic Continental to the sleek Mark series. With the Sentinel, the brand sought to blend traditional styling themes with the cutting-edge 'New Edge' approach to design, creating a fresh interpretation of Lincoln's design DNA.
The Sentinel's exterior design retained classic Lincoln proportions and clean lines, but added sharper corners and more defined shapes characteristic of the 'New Edge' design philosophy. The result was a car that exuded both timeless elegance and modern sophistication.
One of the most striking features of the Sentinel was its reinterpretation of the 1940s-style Continental grille, giving the car a distinctive and luxurious look. The clean side profile, blade fenders, and high beltline with minimal chrome trim paid homage to Lincoln's design heritage while still feeling fresh and contemporary.
The car's flush glass all around and compact, vertically-stacked projector headlamps added to its uncluttered aesthetic, while the massive 20-inch wheels accentuated its clean lines. At 218 inches long, the Sentinel was just slightly shorter than the 1996 Lincoln Town Car, showcasing its full-size luxury credentials.
According to Tom Scott, director of Advanced Design at Ford, the Sentinel was not just a design exercise but a way to explore new possibilities in automotive design. By experimenting with the 'New Edge' approach, Lincoln was able to identify potential benefits beyond aesthetics, such as improved road holding and interior space.
While 'New Edge' design was still in its early stages in 1996, the Lincoln Sentinel showed that this innovative approach could be applied to luxury vehicles and not just sports cars. With its blend of classic elegance and modern sophistication, the Sentinel was a glimpse into the future of Lincoln design.
Though the Sentinel never made it to production, its legacy lives on in Lincoln's current lineup, where elements of its design can still be seen today. As a concept car, the Sentinel pushed the boundaries of automotive design and showcased Lincoln's commitment to innovation and tradition.
