Lincoln MKT Review

As times change and formerly popular large truck-based SUVs morph into more efficient crossover alternatives, the big American wagon appears to be staging a renaissance. This new utility breed, the CUV, is car-based like the wagons of old but features the taller body style of traditional sport-utilities. One of the leading entrants in this field is the Ford Flex, which has spawned an even bolder luxury crossover from Ford's luxury division: the three-row, six- or seven-passenger Lincoln MKT.

The big news here, aside from the Lincoln MKT's expansive 208-inch length, is the available EcoBoost twin-turbocharged V6, which saddles up 355 horsepower and all-wheel drive to move the MKT's substantial heft smartly. But every MKT offers a quiet, finely trimmed cabin and all the amenities you'd expect in a luxury ride. Question marks include the MKT's tight third-row quarters and much higher price compared to its Flex platform mate. Even so, the Lincoln MKT easily has the credentials to compete favorably with its three-row rivals.

Current Lincoln MKT
The Lincoln MKT is a full-size luxury crossover SUV that seats six or seven. Entry-level MKTs get a 3.7-liter V6 that puts out 268 hp and 267 pound-feet of torque. The MKT EcoBoost receives a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 that whips up 355 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. Both models feature a six-speed automatic transmission with a manual shift feature that can be accessed via steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles. On the base MKT, front-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is available as an option, whereas the MKT EcoBoost has standard all-wheel drive.

Standard equipment on all Lincoln MKTs includes 19-inch alloy wheels (20-inch alloys on the EcoBoost), adaptive xenon headlights, keyless entry/ignition, seven-passenger seating, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, tri-zone automatic climate control, an 8-inch touchscreen display, a rearview camera, Ford's Sync system for MP3 players and cell phones, and a 10-speaker audio system with 10 gigabytes of hard drive storage and satellite radio. Options include a panoramic sunroof, second-row sliding captain's chairs (reducing seating capacity to six), a second-row center console with a built-in refrigerator/freezer, blind-spot warning system, an automated parallel-parking system, a voice-operated navigation system with Sirius Travel Link, adaptive cruise control, a 14-speaker surround-sound audio system, a rear-seat DVD entertainment system and a power-folding third-row seat.

In reviews, our editors have been impressed by the MKT EcoBoost's effortless power, particularly given that the turbocharged engine exacts no fuel economy penalty. Other than the mechanically identical Ford Flex EcoBoost, there's no other three-row crossover quite like it. The base engine, however, is just adequate relative to the competition. When it's time to turn the wheel, this Lincoln surprises with reasonably capable handling, yet it doesn't sacrifice the smooth and refined ride quality expected in a premium vehicle of this sort.

Inside, we've applauded the Lincoln MKT's fashionable design and fine materials. The standard seven-passenger version can carry three in its middle-row 60/40-split-bench, while the six-passenger model substitutes a pair of optional bucket seats that slide fore and aft. One place the living isn't easy is the two-person third-row seat, however, as the sloping rear roof subtracts valuable headroom compared to the squarish Flex.

Used Lincoln MKT Models
The MKT debuted for the 2010 model year. There have been no significant changes since.