Overview & Reviews

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 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 turbocharged V6, which saddles up 355 horsepower and all-wheel drive to move the MKT's substantial heft smartly. Every MKT also offers a quiet, finely trimmed cabin and more amenities than you'd expect in a luxury ride. The MKT's tight third-row seating is a drawback, but overall, this Lincoln -- particularly the current model -- is worth a look.

Current Lincoln MKT
The Lincoln MKT is a full-size luxury crossover SUV that seats six or seven. The entry-level MKT gets a 3.7-liter V6 that puts out 300 hp and 280 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.

The base MKT is front-wheel drive only, whereas the MKT EcoBoost has standard all-wheel drive along with driver-selectable settings that alter steering response, stability/traction control intervention, transmission behavior and suspension tuning.

Standard equipment on the MKT is very generous. Items that would typically be high-end options on other luxury models are included, such as adaptive xenon headlights, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, power-adjustable pedals and steering wheel, rear sunshades, a rearview camera and even mobile WiFi. The new MyLincoln Touch electronics interface is also included, bringing most interior controls under the jurisdiction of a large central touchscreen. Updates made for 2013 have improved the usability, speed and reliability of this system, though it may still require some time to acclimate.

Should the standard items not be enough, the MKT also offers a power-folding third-row seat, rear seatbelt airbags, a blind-spot warning system, adaptive cruise control, an automatic parallel parking system, a navigation system, a panoramic sunroof, a surround-sound audio system, and heated and ventilated second-row captain's chairs with a further optional small refrigerated console in between.

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 over the otherwise capable base engine. Other than the mechanically identical Ford Flex EcoBoost, there's no other three-row crossover quite like it. Regardless of engine, however, the MKT delivers surprisingly adept handling for such a large vehicle and a ride that's comfortable in most situations. The EcoBoost's adjustable suspension should improve this even further.

Inside, we've applauded the Lincoln MKT's fashionable design and fine materials, though MyLincoln Touch has its aforementioned downsides. 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. With four people aboard, the MKT is one of the easiest places to spend time on the road. However, the sloping rear roof subtracts valuable headroom compared to the squarish Flex, making the third row really only suitable for children or short adults.

Used Lincoln MKT Models
The MKT debuted for the 2010 model year. Originally, the base model was available with all-wheel drive, but this was removed from the options list for 2012. Models produced prior to the 2013 model year differ in a number of different ways, the most obvious being its different grille design. Other differences can be found under the hood. The entry-level MKT still featured a 3.7-liter V6, but it put out only 268 hp and 267 lb-ft of torque. This resulted in merely adequate acceleration for the big, heavy MKT. The EcoBoost powertrain is unchanged.

The first three model years also featured an older electronics interface, which lacks some of the current car's MyLincoln Touch features and design flourish, but may ultimately be easier to use. Other items not available were the inflatable rear seatbelts, lane departure warning/assist, a heated steering wheel and the EcoBoost's adjustable dampers. Despite this latter omission, this MKT still boasted surprisingly capable handling, yet it didn't sacrifice the smooth and refined ride quality expected in a premium vehicle of this sort.

In general, if the current MKT appeals to you, then used examples should as well. Beyond the base engine's mediocre acceleration, much of its pros and cons have remained the same.

User Reviews:

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  Great New Car - 2010 Lincoln MKT
  By MyGeorgeJ - January 10 - 12:40 am

  Bought the base MKT with Elite package, rear bucket seats with console and rear entertainment about 1 month ago. Couldnt be happier. The car is very comfortable. The middle row has tons of leg room, and with this crossover lower to the ground than most, my wifes grandparents slipped in and out with ease. Great to drive. Its very responsive and has good, not great, acceleration. Test drove the Ecoboost and would get that next time. What a great engine! Have really enjoyed the Ford/Microsoft Synch system. Easy to use with lots of cool features. After a month of ownership, Im still excited to get in and drive it every time.

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  Excellent Safety Features, Ugly Exterior - 2011 Lincoln MKT
  By ken430tx - April 11 - 4:55 am

  I bought this car for the safety items, auto braking, adaptive cruise control, navigation system, etc. It is fun to drive and handles beautifully. Exterior styling is lacking and almost stopped me from buying the vehicle. Interior knobs, and panels are cheap plastic, and not typical of a $60K car. Overall performance is good, mileage on road - 23 mpg! Around town about 19. Only consistent problem I have had is intermittent failure of heat to work. They are replacing the actuator this week. I hope that finally fixes it! I have 19,800 miles on this car so far and it is one year old.

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  Great car, one perplexing shortcoming - 2010 Lincoln MKT
  By sc4774 - February 22 - 12:33 pm

  I have 4 kids and a dog and live in the snow belt so I need a 7 passenger vehicle with 4WD. My Ecoboost has amazing driving dynamics. Edmunds review is off base. MKT is worth more than a Flex as it is a lot more luxurious and has different cache. I also own an Enclave (also great but very different) and turned in an LR3 (not so great) as my previous car and compared Flex, R-Class, XC90, Commander and LR4 for this purchase. Perplexing and disturbing discovery made after purchase... MKT has a partially disabled SYNC system. Check out the website and flick thru the cars. The list of features is cut in half for MKT. Focus has the full suite and the MKT is handicapped!?!

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  Has it All - 2010 Lincoln MKT
  By MrBio - November 13 - 4:06 pm

  The unique styling is head-turning. The ride, performance, and quality are evident from the first drive. I compared the MKT to Acura MDX, BMW X5, Buick Enclave, and Audi Q7. This is the only car with: heated AND cooled front AND 2nd row seats; Power fold 2nd AND 3rd row seats; easy entry and exit. The fridge/freezer between the 2nd row captain chairs is great. Blind spot and cross traffic alert, Voice everything-from climate, radio, weather, to Nav., adaptive cruise control, auto parallel park are all excellent features that work very well. Thanks Lincoln for making a car that does not look like any other car out there. I want to be noticed as out of the ordinary.

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  MKT a Winner - 2010 Lincoln MKT
  By J & L - August 10 - 6:36 am

  We wanted a AWD, 7 passenger luxury crossover with low front seats with good handling and power for winter driving. We considered a MDX, GX450, MBR, BMWX5, Enclave, and Q7. After test driving a MKT we were blown away. The EcoBoost is very fast with little twin turbo lag and the handling great for a vehicle this large.( we also have a 2004 Porsche 911 Cab ). We ordered out a loaded 7 passenger so we would have a full second seat to hold our 106 pound boxer dog and lots of grand kids. The car interior heats up very fast and the heated front and back seat are super. The MKT is a lot of luxury for the $ and can compete head on with the Germans and Japanese with it head held high at less $.

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  Finally. - 2010 Lincoln MKT
  By jdgmint - August 2 - 5:20 am

  This MKT is head and shoulders above any other "Crossover". The quality, comfort and technology is equal, and probably higher, then anything the Germans or Japanese have to offer. Nice going Ford!! Were finally back on top!

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  2013 LINCOLN MKT LEAKING ANTIFREEZE AT 59000 MILES - 2013 Lincoln MKT
  By james303 - April 13 - 11:42 am

  I purchase a 2013 Lincoln MKT, and its a big mistake i made. the biggest problem I had with this car is the (water pump). at 59000 miles the water pump is leaking antifreeze and after takeing it to the FORD dealer they told me its the water pump. that need to be replace. and its cover under the warranty but it will take them a week to get the job don. and will code me one hundred dollars. plus I am having problem with the wipers. when I turn it off it still work I have to play with the switch before the wiper blade stop working. few months ago the seal for the transmission was leaking oil. the seal was replace free of charge under the warranty but cost me time.

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  Love this Vehicle - 2010 Lincoln MKT
  By HemiFan - December 28 - 10:00 am

  Got everything on it except, parallel parking. Self adjusting cruise control is amazing, so the the navigation system. Front brakes were replaced at 7500 miles, because of scratching sound. They will do it for free. Aside from that this car handles and performs with ease. Three hour trips are a breeze.

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  Lincoln MKT - 2010 Lincoln MKT
  By tomg6335 - October 4 - 10:00 am

  This is really a great car. I have over 9000 miles on my MKT and its surpassed all my expectations. Who ever said this is a Ford Flex is pretty stupid. Its like saying a Camry comparable a Lexus ES350. The interior is first class the ride is smooth and quiet and most of all fun to drive. The hardware is top shelf and the interior up there with any BMW or Mercedes. Fuel economy is also very good for a car this size. Im averaging about 19 mpg city/highway.

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  What a car - 2010 Lincoln MKT
  By Flash - June 13 - 6:56 pm

  What a car to drive. Handles like a dream and the eco boost is all it is hyped. The interior is very nice.