When we saw spy photos of Lincoln's Flex-based mule, our thoughts were that the recycled body was either a sign of recycling prototypes or an all-new body structure. If the MKT concept, debuting today at the Detroit auto show, is any indication, it's certainly the latter.

Although the MKT rides on modified Ford Flex underpinnings (there's a 3-inch stretch in wheelbase and a 6" stretch in overall length), it shares nothing in its appearance with the boxy pseudo-wagon. The MKT makes use of many cues incorporated by the MKR concept, including the split waterfall grille, side-spears, panoramic glass roof, and wide, neon-charged tail lamps.

Certainly the most distinguishing styling cue on the 'ute is that C-pillar. Not unlike the 2003 Navicross concept, the MKT uses a hatch for cargo access, but disguises it by pushing the C-pillar forward and wrapping sheetmetal across the hatch. The result is a look that suggests a physical trunk - or even the rear profile of a 30's-era Lincoln Zephyrs.

(Click through for a gallery and more on Linclon's Flex-based MKT)

Inside borrows liberally from the MKR; the suspended center console runs up and into a flowing dashboard panel. Navigation, audio and HVAC controls on the center stack are all done via touch-screen; we're certain the look is inspired by none other than an iPhone. The all-glass roof neatly "floats" an overhead console, although if it's anything like our drive of the MKR, that roof will make life miserable on any day without cloud cover.

Although the Flex offers three rows of seating, Lincoln chose to fit the MKR with only four bucket seats, aiming to simulate almost a LearJet feel. Rear passengers get the full first-class treatment; those seats have a retractable thigh support that's both heated and cooled, while foot rests deploy from the first-row seating. The business jet theme continues with individual ventilation ducts and controls, and should you need to reach the office, a flat-screen monitor and cameras are provided for rear-seat videoconferencing.

The mechanicals underneath are less fanciful than much of the interior. The MKT is powered by the same EcoBoost 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged direct-injection V-6 that's found in the 2009 MKS sedan; in this application, it still produces 340 horsepower and 340 lb-ft of torque. As can be reasoned from it's Flex roots, the MKT makes use of a six-speed automatic and all-wheel-drive to get power to all four 21-inch wheels.

We're certain that some of the conceptual features will be lost in translation between concept and production, but overall, we like what we see here. We'll bring you live photos and more information from the MKT's actual launch later today, so be sure to stay with WINDING ROAD for the latest news.

LINCOLN RELEASE

DETROIT, Jan. 14, 2008 – Lincoln today pulls the wraps off a new premium utility concept vehicle – unsurpassed in its balance of spaciousness, comfort and fuel efficiency – that shows customers a new way to tour in style.

The Lincoln MKT concept features a 3.5-liter V-6 EcoBoost engine with turbocharging and direct injection that produces the power and torque of a V-8 engine with the fuel efficiency of a V-6. EcoBoost – combined with advanced transmissions, electric power steering, weight reductions and aerodynamic improvements – is a key part of Ford Motor Company’s vehicle sustainability strategy.

The company is introducing EcoBoost engines that will deliver up to 20 percent better fuel economy on half a million Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles annually in North America within the next five years. Ford will first introduce EcoBoost in the Lincoln MKS next year. The luxury sedan will feature a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V-6, delivering an estimated 340-horsepower and more than 340 lb.-ft. of torque on regular gas.

“EcoBoost engines can deliver better fuel economy and performance on a full range of vehicles, from small cars to large trucks,