2002 Lincoln Blackwood in El Reno, OK - $13,950

Automakers seem to be getting serious about their "concept" vehicles these days. Almost gone are the days of far out concepts introduced at auto shows to tickle the imagination of show goers -- never designed to see production. In recent years however, an increasing number of vehicles displayed at the nation's major auto shows are being turned into driveable products -- fueled mainly by positive consumer response to the concepts.

The 2002 Lincoln Blackwood is another auto show concept vehicle being brought to life in production. First shown as a concept vehicle at the Detroit North American International Auto Show in 1999, the Blackwood wraps four passengers in an indulgent, luxurious cabin trimmed in black leather and wood.

The exterior marries the dramatic presence of a deep-gloss black Lincoln Navigator with a unique and distinctive box-like trunk with a power-operated tonneau cover. The new Lincoln shares strong design DNA with the Lincoln Navigator, particularly in its front section.

"We were so pleased by the public's enthusiasm for the concept Lincoln Blackwood we knew we had to build it," said Mark Hutchins, president of Lincoln Mercury. "The Blackwood delivers all of the emotional 'got to have it' appeal of the concept, and we will keep production limited to enhance its exclusivity and collectibles."

Built by Ford at its Kansas City, Mo., truck complex, the Blackwood is powered by the same 5.4L DOHC aluminum engine used in the Navigator. Torque is transferred to the pavement through the 4R100 four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive and a locking torque converter.

Also like the Navigator, Blackwood features a built-in Class III/IV hitch for towing. To enhance traction under acceleration, Blackwood uses an engine management system that senses any rear wheel slip and manages torque delivery to restore traction.

The system is also capable of detecting when the vehicle is attempting to accelerate on a loose or deformable surface such as snow or sand. On these surfaces, the system allows the vehicle to power out of the situation. In cases where only one driving wheel is on a slippery surface, the limited slip differential automatically transfers torque to the other wheel.

Blackwood's balance and composure at speed are a function of the vehicle's suspension hardware. The independent short- and long-arm front suspension uses coil springs and shock absorbers with variable rate damping. The rear suspension uses a hybrid of leaf and air springs.

As passengers or cargo are added to the vehicle, the extra load is taken up by the air spring with the pressure in the spring adjusting automatically to maintain ride height. Staggered variable-rate rear shocks provide better control of the solid axle. Micro-cellular urethane jounce bumpers provide a progressive halt to axle travel over severe bumps to eliminate jarring.

Anti-windup bars attached to the rear axle work to prevent wheel hop and improve traction on wet or loose surfaces. Low profile Michelin P275/55R18 tires make a major contribution to the Blackwood's ride.

Inside the cabin, displays and controls are similar to the Navigator. Dark-stained wood trim and black perforated leather-faced seats set the mood. The driver enjoys a commanding view of the road. Driver and passengers are coddled in unequaled room, quiet and comfort.

The Lincoln Blackwood's 27.5 cu. ft trunk is unique inside and out. Side-hinged Dutch doors and a hard tonneau cover open at the push of a button, allowing easy access to the stainless steel-lined trunk. The tonneau cover is equipped with pinch protection and safety sensors that reverse the electric motor if an obstruction is detected. A power pull down mechanism ensures secure latching. A manual override is housed within the rear passenger wheel housing.

Inside the trunk, the junctions between the side walls and the cargo floor are accented by tow cool-to-the-touch LED light strips. Flush tie-down rings help secure larger items. Storage bins are built into the interior sides, and additional open bins are built into each Dutch door.

Ratings & specifications

Engine performance numbers are 300 hp at 5,000 rpm and 355 lb./ft. of torque at 2,750 rpm. EPA fuel economy figures are 12 city/17 highway using premium unleaded gasoline. Properly equipped, the Blackwood has a minimum payload capacity of 1,200 pounds and a maximum towing capacity of 8,700 pounds.

Standard safety/security equipment includes dual front airbags, seat mounted side impact airbags for driver and front passenger, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, battery saver, side-impact protection, reverse sensing system, fog lamps and keyless entry. A navigation system is $1,995 additional.

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2002 Lincoln Blackwood is $51,785. Destination charge adds $715. Lincoln Mercury is planning an annual production run of only 10,000 units, so planning and patience are watch words in order to secure this unique vehicle.

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