Lincoln unveils 400-horsepower 2017 MKZ

As Lincoln looks to reinvent itself—again—the brand is hoping a powerful new version of the MKZ will do the trick.

Gone is the Falcon-like look of the second generation MKZ, replaced by a much more understated design that borrows a bit from the Continental Concept Lincoln unveiled earlier this year.

It boasts an almost Jaguar-like sloping nose, leading to a grille that looks as though it was pulled straight from the Continental Concept—no more split-wing grille.

But it's what's behind that new grille that is perhaps most important, with the 2017 MKZ sporting an all-new, Lincoln-exclusive twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 that makes a whopping 400 horsepower and 400 lb.-ft. of torque when paired with an all-wheel drive platform.

Torque vectoring will be available on all-wheel drive models.

V6 models with front-wheel drive make 350 horsepower and the same 400 lb.-ft. of torque, while a a 2.0-litre four-cylinder, likely the same EcoBoost engine in the current MKZ, that makes 245 horsepower will also be available, as will a hybrid setup.

The 2017 MKZ's interior also takes a new direction, with a far more upscale look than its predecessor highlighted by quilted leather and an available fully-retractable panoramic sunroof.

The 2017 MKZ is set to go on sale in the summer of 2016.