Lincoln’s performance during today’s press conference (see “2012 Detroit auto show: Will a new MKZ be enough to revive Lincoln?”) clearly showed that company knows it has a problem and seems to be committed to righting the listing ship.

But how did the once mighty division get to this point, anyway?

Here’s a look at some of its past products that fizzled:

• Mark LT -- Puzzling that the division would follow the failed Blackwood luxury pickup truck with the Mark LT. Seemed obvious that this was trying to muscle in on the popularity of Cadillac’s Escalade and pickup truck version (the EXT). The LT’s four-wheel-drive system was only part-time. By comparison, the F-150 Harley-Davidson used the better, permanent all-wheel-drive system. The Mark LT also lacked stability control and curtain air bags.


• LS -- This was a car we (and many others) really liked; it was a nice balance between luxury and sportiness, delivering fairly agile handling, a comfortable ride, and a quiet cabin. The strong V8 provided good power and effortless acceleration. The interior was pleasant. But reliability was often lackluster. Production ceased in 2006.


• Aviator -- Lincoln's version of the Mercury Mountaineer and Ford Explorer. Had a smooth, strong 302-hp V8 mated to a five-speed automatic. Without low-range gearing, it wasn’t meant for serious off-roading. The ride was stiffer than the Explorer but handling was more nimble. Some controls were less intuitive. The premium price bought more power, amenities, and plushness than you could get in the Explorer, but that didn’t hide its roots.

To give you an idea of where the company is going, it’s good to see where it’s been. So here’s CR’s take on Lincoln’s current lineup:

• MKS -- Powered by a 3.7- liter V6 that isn't particularly refined. Has a compliant but not always settled ride and handling that’s secure but lacks agility. Also, a high rear deck limits rear visibility.


• MKT -- The ride is comfortable but stiffer than the Flex. Handling isn’t agile and the SUV is cumbersome at its cornering limits. Visibility and the driving position are compromised. Reliability has dropped to below average.


• MKX -- While the cabin is fairly quiet, $50,000 should buy more silence. Controls, dominated by an interface called MyLincoln Touch, using a touch screen and touch-sensitive buttons, make adjusting the climate, audio, and other functions distracting and tedious. The MKX scores too low to be recommended. Reliability is below average.


• MKZ -- The cabin is quiet, but it should be roomier and better finished to match its direct competitors.


• Navigator -- V8 has to work hard moving this tank and fuel economy is a wallet-draining 13 mpg overall. Handling is a bit lumbering; prodigious body lean made the Navigator feel clumsy in emergency maneuvers. Braking distances are long.

So, what lies ahead? Considering the competitiveness of the luxury segment, I think the division is in for the fight of its life.

Check out all our coverage of new cars in Detroit.