The Lincoln MKZ has been a practical and reliable choice for an entry-level luxury sedan. But the exterior styling, interior quality, and driving dynamics didn’t really deviate much from its Ford Fusion family sedan platform-mate. If buyers wanted a luxury car that felt special, the MKZ just didn’t really deliver. But Ford is trying (again) to breathe life into Lincoln. A big part of that is a new MKZ. (See the new Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ in our Detroit auto show coverage.)

The concept shown in Detroit, which is supposedly a strong indication of the upcoming production car, has more-dynamic lines, a glass see-through roof, and a giant chrome grille. Inside, the war on buttons and knobs continues with the introduction of MyLincoln Touch, which spreads across the Lincoln line for 2013.

Not much was said about the concept’s underpinnings or drivetrain, but since the MKZ remains Fusion-based, we expect to see those engines (particularly the 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder and hybrid) here.

Lots of other car companies build entry-level luxury sedans off of more prosaic platforms, like the Lexus ES being spun off of the Toyota Camry or the upcoming Acura ILX that’s based on the Honda Civic. But no one ever accused the Camry or Civic of being luxurious or stylish.

That’s the threat that the redesigned Ford Fusion poses to this Lincoln. After all, the new Fusion makes a strong impression as a stylish, solid, and sophisticated sedan. Maybe the Lincoln brings the benefits of a nicer dealership experience, but you won’t see the dealership in your driveway every day.

We’ll see if the Lincoln finally stands out in a crowded luxury sedan field when we buy one to test this fall.