Overview & Reviews

The Lincoln MKX offers contemporary styling and a modern interior that moves the brand forward from its previous retro-obsessed past. Its lack of a third row seat makes it a little less family-friendly than some other sport-utilities in its segment, but its single-row backseat is nevertheless quite spacious. Earlier MKXs came up short in terms of power and refinement, but the latest MKX boasts a strong 3.7-liter V6 engine and a cabin that can actually hold its own with other luxury brands in terms of both quality and design.

Ultimately, however, the Lincoln MKX is yet another choice in the crowded luxury crossover SUV market. Though shoppers are likely to find the MKX's combination of clean, elegant styling, available high-end amenities and reasonable price appealing, we'd suggest also checking out its many sport-utility competitors, as several offer a more refined driving experience, added versatility and greater differentiation from non-luxury models.

Current Lincoln MKX
The Lincoln MKX is a luxury midsize crossover SUV that seats five people. Like other current Lincoln products, the MKX bears a heavy mechanical relation to a Ford product: in this case, the Ford Edge. Lincoln differentiates its version mostly through a signature Lincoln grille, a different taillight design, additional feature content and a more luxurious interior (though the design is similar).

Under the hood is a 3.7-liter V6 good for 305 horsepower. A six-speed automatic is standard, while front-wheel- and all-wheel drive are available. There is a single MKX trim level, which is chock-full of standard equipment that's typically optional on other luxury crossovers. This includes keyless ignition/entry, rear parking sensors, a power tailgate, heated and ventilated front seats and driver memory functions. MyLincoln Touch and the Sync phone and audio device interface are features unique to Lincoln and are certainly selling points.

In terms of practicality, the MKX offers plenty of space -- particularly in back, where three people can fit comfortably. This is one area in which the MKX beats out smaller luxury crossover models. The MKX's 3.7-liter V6 is smooth and furnishes brisk acceleration, though the transmission can sometimes be reluctant to downshift. The ride quality is comfortable, though opting for the 20-inch wheels brings about some added harshness that might not fit with your expectations of a Lincoln. At highway speeds, the MKX's cabin is notably quiet.

Overall, we're impressed by the MKX's feature content, ride quality, quiet interior and attractive design. But buyers should be aware that there are several similarly priced crossovers of various different sizes that are highly recommended. Saving some money and looking at a loaded Edge is also a pretty good idea.

Used Lincoln MKX models
The Lincoln MKX luxury crossover debuted as an all-new vehicle in 2007. The first-year model suffered from poor braking distances and the lack of Ford's excellent Sync electronics interface. As such, we'd only consider those models from '08 or later; here you'll find better brakes and Sync. Even then, though, this MKX paled in comparison to its rivals and was even more closely related to its cheaper Edge sibling than the current model.

From 2007-'10, the MKX was powered by a 265-hp 3.5-liter V6 shared with the Edge -- making comparisons between the two inevitable and not at all beneficial to the more expensive Lincoln. A six-speed automatic was standard, while front-wheel and all-wheel drive were available. The impressive array of standard features was pretty similar to the current car, though package names and content changed a bit over the years. There were also special packages (Monochrome, Midnight Limited and plain old Limited editions) that added special exterior and interior trim, big wheels and in some cases, a sport suspension.

This era MKX was known for having an interior design inspired by past Lincolns, with a dual-cowl dash and boxy gauges. It was somewhat cheesy, but worst of all, its downmarket stereo/climate control switchgear, low-end plastics and unimpressive fit and finish made the MKX seem like a guy wearing a cardigan to a black-tie soiree. The front seats were also quite hard and uncomfortable.

User Reviews:

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  Style and comfort abound - 2016 Lincoln MKX
  By Sandra - February 9 - 9:12 am

  As someone who works from home, I dont usually drive that much, but ever since we bought the Lincoln, I find reasons to go out and run errands. First, the car is simply beautiful to look at. We got the black interior and exterior. It looks awesome lit up at night. The front seats are extremely comfortable with both heating and cooling options. There is plenty of headroom and legroom. The back seat is massive and comfortably seats three people. The rear also has plenty of room for luggage, groceries, etc. The MKX is loaded with superior features like voice command for navigation and climate control. The large display allows for multiple functions to be displayed side-by-side like the map and radio. Hooking up your phone is a snap. They made the technology very intuitive. Some of the other bells and whistles include the car unlocking when you walk up to it with your key--no more fumbling when youre holding packages. The chimes and lighted welcome mat are a nice touch when you open the car. They also have ambient light inside the car with different color options. We also had a stellar experience buying the car with our salesman. They threw in a lot of perks to sweeten the deal and treated us like the best customers in the world. Overall, we would highly recommend the MKX to anyone looking for a luxury SUV that is fun to drive and loaded with lots of extras!

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  No open door chime!!! Terrible design. - 2011 Lincoln MKX
  By bigd32 - November 27 - 9:16 pm

  Just back to my open rear door into the garage causing $2000 worth of damage because there was no door chime. Only car of ever own that makes no sound when doors open with the key in the ignition. Terrible design.

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  Give American made a chance, like we did. - 2016 Lincoln MKX
  By Carrie - April 15 - 8:25 pm

  We are very happy with our 2016 MKX Black Label, former Lexus/Acura owners of many years. Test drove Infinitis(multiple SUVs), Lexus RX, Acura MDX ... RDX, Mercedes GLK and GLE...also Audi Q5. We then decided to check out the 2016 Lincoln MKX. All the previously mentioned vehicles are very nice but found the MKX much quieter, a joy to drive and the REVEL sound system may be better then the Mark Levinson sound system found in the RX. The REVEL blew my mind at the pure sound. We were also very pleased with the softer ride and rarely any engine noise which were very noticeable in the RX, Mercedes and most especially the Infinit (QX50, JX60 and the small Infiniti SUV). The MKX is the most wonderful ride we have ever experienced. I rarely hear any rode noise or the sound of vehicle right next to us...due to the noise cancellation found thru-out the MKX. The seats in the Black Label are 22 way both driver and passenger side. The head room is great. My husband is 67" and this and the Mercedes were the roomiest and most comfortable for him. The back seat is quite roomy as is the cargo area. We have the new SYNC 3 which is very easy to operate and I find it easy to figure out and operate. My only complaint is the gas mileage which is normal for an SUV of almost 4500 lbs(18 miles to the gallon our tech informed us). I am a former Lexus GS sedan and there is quite a difference in gas usage. This vehicle is pure joy to drive. We find ourselves wanting to use it on weekends now versus my husbands truck.

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  Design for cold? No - 2008 Lincoln MKX
  By Roger C - April 1 - 3:46 pm

  Four months of driving and I still have problems with knocked knee caps on the dash. I took it in hoping that there was a recall on the tail gate lifting cylinders as any time below 32 degrees it only lifts 3/4 open. Slow learner took me two head knocks to remember to push up to load, so I have to open back gate before taking things out of the house. My Town and Country does not have this problem. Dealer said it works when in the shop and would do nothing to fix the problem. As a new stock holder I hate to write this but as a tax payer I more understand why some companies should go out of business.

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  Nice Ride - 2007 Lincoln MKX
  By Tom - March 27 - 7:16 am

  MKX is designed with style. The exterior design is eye catching. Nice front grill, adaptive headlamps, heated mirrors, chrome 18" wheels are great to see. The interior is well done. LED lighting, wood trim, A/C and heated seats are nice. Low cabin noise is a plus. The power lift gate is excellent. Memory seats are worth every penny!! Handles nice especially on an open road. Even though the seats are hard it is a comfortable ride.

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  Wow! - 2008 Lincoln MKX
  By RT - February 13 - 9:06 am

  What an incredible car. We had a 2006 Cadillac CTS. Had to move to something not RWD and a little bigger. Looked at the Edge, looked at GM products, as I was a GM loyalist, but nothing compared to the MKX. Great styling, superb comfort, cool features, all rolled into one little sharp CUV. I could go on and on about this vehicle. We usually change cars it seems like every couple of years. I dont see us giving up the MKX. Oh I almost forgot, zero interest as well. Now who doesnt love free money! What a super value all around. Always looking forward to the next time I get to drive it.

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  Nice little UCV/SUV - 2007 Lincoln MKX
  By New to Lincoln - January 2 - 6:03 am

  Im not big on American cars but I had this car for about 5 months now and I can say I get alot of enjoyment out of it. Its the base model and the only thing I dislike is the gas mileage. Its only an expensive ford edge so if you want something a little less expensive go with the edge. The interior is great though. Love the layout of the dash. Front headroom is a little limiting but not a big deal. Fun to drive, has great pick up, sound system great, and TONS of front passenger storage. Takes regualr gas and performs excellent

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  Never Lease From Lincoln - 2013 Lincoln MKX
  By aaayron - December 28 - 11:30 am

  Its a bad idea to lease anything from Lincoln. Did you know that at the end of your lincoln lease, if you want to trade in your lincoln to anyone else but Lincoln, they will not release the car to anyone but you (the lessee) or a Lincoln dealer. I found this out the hard way today when i went to trade my leased Lincoln in for a cadilac. The cadilac dealership was giving me a good price that would have covered the payoff and the last 3 payments on my lease, but they would not allow cadillac to buy the car. being over my mileage, I could have avoided the mileage fees, excess wear and the last 3 payments. Now i have to use half my down payment i set asside just to get out of my lease.

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  not good - 2008 Lincoln MKX
  By jax not satisfied - September 16 - 11:36 am

  Although I love the looks and feel of this vehicle it has been nothing but a headache. Always in the shop. It is wonderful to drive when it is running! Service department seems to have no clue on what is wrong. Can anyone say lemon? it is unfortunate that I have had this experience because I had my eye on a Lincoln for a long time before I decided to buy one. Now it seems I made a huge mistake. I am thinking about getting a more reliable vehichle and just giving up on my pretty Lincoln. I need a car that is dependable because I have an infant and I dont want to be stranded on the side of the road again. So sad

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  Move away from the edge - 2008 Lincoln MKX
  By Lanis - June 16 - 7:20 pm

  Compared the Edge to the MKX and the MKX is a better value and better looking. Bought the MKX in March with the 20" chrome wheels and black exterior. Looked at an another MKX with the 18" wheels but the 20" looks extra nice. The monochrome limited edition completes the package! Average 18 MPG in mixed driving with no problems at all. Really like the telescoping wheel since I am very tall. Lots of rear seat room as well as room behind the rear seats. Good size for a family of four. Was worried about not having AWD since I live in snow country, but the FWD MKX did extremely well in our last major snowstorm!