Everybody knows that style sells.

And with that in mind, the all-new 2007 Lincoln MKX, with its elegant looks, futuristic profile and understated sophistication, is a winner hands down. It's arguably the most important product introduced for Lincoln-Mercury in years.

The company's all-new crossover is aimed at serving the luxury end of what is the fastest growing segment in the automotive industry. And fortunately for Lincoln, it comes armed to the teeth: an unusual panoramic two-paneled vista roof and a 3.5 liter V-6 with a six-speed automatic transmission. It also has plenty of safety features, including a full complement of air bags with the all-important side curtain head air bags and a roll stability control system.

	The 2007 Lincoln MKX. Click photo for larger image.

But frankly, I don't think safety equipment will be on the minds of people who first see this car. What they will be thinking about is just how gorgeous it is. It has all the hallmarks of the quiet, understated, yet head-turning design school that has penned the best of Lincoln's styling traits over the years.

It makes wise, careful use of chrome trim, including beautiful wheels and a distinctive, Lincoln style grille. Around back there are wall to wall taillights that also have been a Lincoln trademark for sometime.

Inside, you'll find a modern iteration of the signature two-cove Lincoln instrument panel, with three aluminum trimmed squared off gauges. Satin nickel accents are elsewhere in the interior.

The MKX, which carries five passengers, is equipped with heated and cooled front sets, heated rear seats, a navigation system and a host of other goodies to keep passengers well-cared for. It also comes with all-wheel drive, independent suspension anti-lock brakes and other items that will make it fully competitive with other crossovers in the market.

Prices and fuel economy figures were not yet available.

Mercury's intermediate sized Milan is quite a bit classier than the already nice Ford Fusion with which it shares its basic design. Milan classes things up with a more sophisticated-looking grille, better trim and an overall more expensive look with different trims and interior materials than you'll find on the Fusion.

It's aimed primarily at the hip urban crowd and is said to be particularly popular with women. That might be due in part to its marketing campaign.

Power for the Milan comes from either a 221 horsepower, 3.0 liter V-6, which is rated at 20 miles per gallon in the city and 26 on the highway, or a 160 horsepower four-cylinder engine, which is rated at 23 miles per gallon in the city and 31 on the highway.

Lincoln's Zephyr has been renamed MKZ and given more power.