The all-new 2009 Lincoln MKS is something different for this proud luxury marquee: a full-size sedan with its sights set on the young (by Lincoln standards). As such, the MKS is a lavishly equipped full-size luxury sedan, both grand and, in its way, grandiose. It combines an elegant new look for Lincoln, combining elements of the marque’s long, impressive history with technology that, by Lincoln’s lights, points the way to the luxury-car future.

From the first glance, this MKS is nothing if not a serious entry. It has dignity and clout that is likely to win over Lincoln’s traditional older clientele. Its muscular, long body is trimmed plenteously with gleaming chrome highlights, giving it the flash of a thoroughbred American sedan.

The MKS interior seconds the motion; this is a sedan with class-leading roominess in the rear compartment. The styling and materials throughout, typified by elegant standard-equipment leather upholstery, confirm that this is an automobile for those accustomed to fine surroundings.

The MKS was never intended to be a sport sedan, rightly so. And venturing as it does deep into the realm of onboard connectivity, this car makes an extremely interesting entry. But after producing the enticing, discontinued LS, Lincoln seems to have ignored the idea that putting more athleticism in its cars and a smile of pleasure on the driver’s face is never a bad thing.