Lincoln MKS Review

Lincoln hasn't always kept up with the competition in the luxury sedan segment. As rivals evolved with more avant-garde styling, better handing and the latest technology, Lincoln lagged behind, struggling to break free of its antiquated image. The Lincoln MKS is the brand's newest attempt to gain back some territory. Roomy and comfortable, the MKS boasts available all-wheel drive and a bevy of standard and optional features.

Mechanically, it's related to the Ford Taurus, meaning it shares that car's general underpinnings and powertrain. This relationship, however, limits Lincoln's aspirations for the MKS. It falls short in many areas, including driving dynamics and interior appointments. In general, it seems more like a gussied-up Ford than a true luxury sedan. It might be worth a look for shoppers keen on a large American luxury sedan, but in general we think there are better choices.

Current Lincoln MKS

The Lincoln MKS is available with one of two V6 engines, the base 3.7-liter V6 (273 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque) or the upgraded turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 (355 hp and 350 lb-ft). Both engines are matched to a six-speed automatic with manual shift control, though the transmission for the turbo V6 has been optimized for that engine's enhanced performance. Base MKS models can be front-wheel or all-wheel drive, while those with the turbocharged engine are all-wheel drive only.

Standard MKS features abound and include 18-inch wheels, adaptive xenon headlamps and a sleek, inconspicuous touchpad entry system. Inside, the MKS has Ford's voice-activated Sync system (includes iPod interface and Bluetooth), leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated 12-way power front seats, heated rear seats, a rear center armrest with pass-through slot and an eight-speaker, AM/FM stereo system with an in-dash six-CD changer, satellite radio and an auxiliary audio jack. Optional features include larger wheels, a dual-pane sunroof, adaptive cruise control, an upgraded 14-speaker 600-watt THX-certified stereo system and a navigation system with Sirius Travel Link.

In reviews, we've found some problems with this full-size sedan, including lackluster handling (that's at odds with an otherwise stiff ride quality and heavy steering) and a lack of power from the relatively crude-sounding base V6. Thanks to its 355 hp and broad torque band, the turbocharged Lincoln MKS takes a big leap forward in terms of performance. Even so, this big sedan is happiest as a freeway cruiser that conducts its business in a nice, straight line.

The leather-clad interior is capacious, particularly in back. There's excellent head- and legroom back there, along with a pleasantly high cushion for thigh support. The standard rear seat heaters are a thoughtful touch. The trunk is large, but a small trunk opening makes it hard to access all of that space. Overall, the interior is well organized in terms of instrumentation, but some materials seem cheap and don't deliver a convincing luxury sedan vibe.

Unfortunately, none of this adds up to a truly compelling luxury sedan package. The acceleration and fuel efficiency of the MKS's turbocharged engine are appealing, as are the car's accommodating backseat and intuitive controls. Unfortunately, the rest of the car doesn't stand out compared to its rivals.

Used Lincoln MKS Models

The Lincoln MKS debuted for the 2009 model year and was initially only available with the standard, 273-hp V6. The turbocharged 355-hp V6 arrived the following year.