Overview & Reviews
Lincoln hasn't always kept up with the competition in the luxury sedan segment. As rivals evolved with more modern styling, better handing and the latest technology, Lincoln lagged behind, struggling to break free of its antiquated image. The Lincoln MKS is an 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 latest-generation Ford Taurus, meaning it shares that car's general underpinnings and powertrain. This relationship, however, has limited the MKS's appeal. For the first few years in particular, its driving dynamics and interior appointments made the MKS seem more like a gussied-up Ford than a true luxury sedan. A major overhaul for 2013 has improved the MKS considerably, though. As a used model, the MKS remains a tough sell compared to other midsize luxury sedans, but it might be worth a look for shoppers keen on a large American luxury sedan.
Current Lincoln MKS
The Lincoln MKS received significant updates for 2013, including engine upgrades, suspension enhancements, additional equipment, more luxurious cabin appointments and revised styling inside and out.
There are three trim levels tied to drivetrain choice. FWD and AWD trims come with a 3.7-liter V6 that produces 300 horsepower. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard. The EcoBoost trim comes with a turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 that sends 365 hp to all four wheels. Its fuel economy is actually only slightly less than that of the base engine.
Expected luxury features like leather upholstery are standard on both, but Lincoln ups the ante by including items that are usually options, like an adaptive suspension, heated and ventilated seats, a power-adjustable steering wheel and even mobile WiFi capability. Options include a rearview camera, heated rear seats, a lane-departure warning system, an automatic parallel-parking system and a 16-speaker stereo.
The MKS also features the MyLincoln Touch system, which was widely criticized in its early iterations for usability, speed and reliability issues. The current version has been greatly improved, although there's still a learning curve involved. Either way, this new technology creates a clean, futuristic look inside the spacious, well-constructed cabin. Few cars in its class can match the amount of passenger space in the MKS, including its 18.4-cubic-foot trunk.
Used Lincoln MKS Models
The Lincoln MKS debuted for the 2009 model year, and models produced between then and 2012 differ from the current model. The styling is less distinctive, the quality of interior materials and construction is lower and there were fewer features available. Not only were the engines less powerful, but it lacked the current car's adaptive suspension. Without it, the ride was surprisingly stiff and the handling not especially good either. The steering was also needlessly heavy. On the upside, some may find the interior controls easier to use than those in the current car.
The MKS was initially only available with a standard 273-hp 3.7-liter V6, while the 355-hp turbocharged V6 (EcoBoost) arrived the following year. As with today, base MKS models could be front-wheel or all-wheel drive, while those with the turbocharged engine are all-wheel drive only.
In reviews, we found some problems with these early MKS models, many of which were corrected with the midcycle changes for 2013. Besides some of the issues alluded to above, we found the base engine to deliver lackluster acceleration and the entire car to have little advantage over a loaded Ford Taurus. Thanks to its 355 hp and broad torque band, the turbocharged Lincoln MKS EcoBoost was more appealing.
User Reviews:
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MKS Is An Awesome Car - 2009 Lincoln MKS
By REWInAmherst - April 26 - 2:23 amThe 2009 Lincoln MKS is an awesome car. I have previously owned 14 Lincoln Town Cars and 1 Lincoln Aviator and rate the MKS amongst the best of those vehicles when it comes to my driving and ownership experience. I do a great deal of highway driving for my businesses and the MKS drives and handles very well and is a luxurious and comfortable experience over many hours spent on the road between destinations. My MKS has the "Ultimate Package" with all of the technological toys and conveniences which I appreciate greatly. I highly recommend the Lincoln MKS to everyone who is seriously interested in a true American luxury sedan.
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Stealth Luxury - 2009 Lincoln MKS
By StkJck - March 16 - 12:53 amI recently was in the market for a replacement car since my 06 300 SRT* lease was up. Searched for used 2006 750LI and Audi A8 and decided on MKS. Price out the door was almost the same. I think it was only prudent to get something more practical but still wanted the toys and boy does this have the toys. My MKS is loaded plus has the optional wood trim package ($400). It is well worth it. It just highlights the luxurious interior.
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Get a lot of looks! - 2009 Lincoln MKS
By tpk - August 23 - 9:53 pmAfter driving SUVs for 10 years, decided to try a car again. Drove the big Audi, Lexus, Volvo, Benz, BMW and then the MKS. Loved the interior and options of the MKS compared to the rest and bought it that day!
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Great Package - 2009 Lincoln MKS
By jacob - July 31 - 7:23 amI really love the car. It has style,luxury appointments, and a thoroughly modern look. Ford learned alot from Jaguar,I feel they have incorpoated the same approach,quiet luxury. Even the dash looks like something Ian designed himself. Lots has been said about being underpowered. The engine delivers much to my satisfaction while keeping me away from the pump. It took restraint not to give this an 8 cylinder. Lincoln went the right direction, looking ahead to what gas prices will surely be again. MKS is not BMW and doesnt want to be, its more like Volvo meets Acura meets Lexus. Now meet Lincoln.
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Solid - 2009 Lincoln MKS
By schuhman - July 20 - 5:33 pmI drove the Infiniti M and the Acura, comparing them to the MKS. After the drives it was a slam dunk, I bought the Lincoln. I is a quick of the line, it looks better and the options closed the deal. I would recommend the care to anyone that wants great style, smooth ride and solid performance with every option. The sync system is great and I have downloaded every cd I like into the jukebox. The hands free nav, radio and systems are the cherry on top. My kids enjoy the dual moonroof and the adaptive headlights are a bonus I did not expect to enjoy as much I do. I put dark tint and it finished the car perfectly.
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Are you kidding me? - 2009 Lincoln MKS
By Gary - June 7 - 6:46 amThere is no car on the road better than this one for the price. I decided to trade from my Caddy CTS and was ready to go back to previously owned models, and Ive had them all. Infinity FX, Acura TL, Mercedes S and E series, Lexus LS, I could go on and on. If anyone had told me Id end up with a Lincoln MKS Id have laughed. I had decided on a fully loaded Lexus GS350 when I drove this car. My wife loved it, I was blown away by the technology and the combination of luxury and handling. Whats the rap from the Editors? Good grief, there is no car on the road that compares at this price. Perfect combination of luxury and performance from a guy that loves both. Best car Ive ever had.
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Ford Hits One Out - 2009 Lincoln MKS
By JD - March 7 - 2:00 amThis is the car that shows when pushed to the wall Ford can put out a very competative product. Before purchsing the MKS, I test drove the CTS, DTS, ES,Lucerne and Jaguar XF and I can say that the MKS has the best driving characteristics of the bunch save the XF. The car is very aggressive in appearance and performance and will surprise many with its accelration and handling. Dont be dissapointed by the 275 HP six cyllinder power plant as it is more than adequate. You will not lose this car in the parking lot. People who ask me about the car are surprised that this is a Lincoln. The car is worth serious consideration in this segment and with 1200 miles on the odom mph is above 21 mpg
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Lincoln got it right! - 2009 Lincoln MKS
By popeye1250 - February 21 - 11:40 amTraded in the venerable Mercury Grand Marquis for the MKS and thought I was spoiled with the Mercurys ride. This car has a supurb ride and handles like a sportscar at the same time. The interior is more roomy than a Caddy STS and very comfortable! Excellent ergonomics! The "Bridge of Weir" leather from Scotland is absolutely the best and the recycled ash on the dash is exquisite! This car will go far faster than Ill ever need to go but its fun to punch it at 25 mph and be doing 60 in about 3 seconds. Everything, paint, fit, finish, electronics, sound is incredable! And they tell me that after I have a few k on it that it will get up to 29 mpg highway. This is how cars should be built
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Fabulous Car! - 2009 Lincoln MKS
By Keith Dunbar - November 29 - 10:26 pmReally delighted with this car. Ive owned Audis, Alfas and lately a BMW 7. This car is right up there with them and more fun in many ways. It feels every bit the luxury car that it is. On the freeway it is an effortless, remarkably quiet cruiser. In town easy to drive. Overall very comfortable, great cabin; a nice place to be. Lexus watch out, this car is every bit as good as your equivalent GS430; in fact it is better looking, has more style and breaks from the bland, mundane approach of its Japanese rival. Superb car all round, thoroughly recommend it. Test drive one and youll be amazed. Remember, it is a luxury car; dont be put of by the journalists that dont measure it that way.
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I love my car - 2009 Lincoln MKS
By Wade B - September 17 - 1:30 pmI have had several cars including a 1995 Toyota Camry, a 2008 Mercedes E350, etc. This is by far my favorite. I plan on keeping it awhile.
