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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Very Happy With my Choice - 2010 Lincoln MKT
By MKTHappyOwner - January 5 - 10:33 amWe looked at the Q7, XC-90, MDX, Enclave and the MKT. The closest equal was the Q7 and Im happy to say the MKT is a much better car. The Eco boost engine is the way to go. Almost 100 HP more than the Q7 and still better mileage than that car. Interior space is much better with the MKT. The Sync system is top notch. The ability to plug my IPod into the USB and control it via the touch screen is great. THX sound system is off the charts. Sync/Nav/Voice Recognition etc. is very well thought out and the level of integration is impressive. I went into this purchase heavily leaning to the Q7. After I drove the MKT, it was an easy decision. Very happy to buy American over the Audi.
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Excellent Design and Quality - 2010 Lincoln MKT
By John - October 16 - 11:46 pmJust bought the vehicle without knowing much about it and was thoroughly impressed by the quality, comfort and engineering. Outstanding acceleration, great handling and typical Lincoln Town Car style quiet ride. Excellent safety features are part of a unique package assembled by Ford. I have owned 4 Town Cars and currently have 2 Jaquars XJ series. This MKT hadles as good as the XJ8 and is as much fun to drive. Highly recommended,
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Enjoying our 2014 MKT EcoBoost - 2014 Lincoln MKT
By jeffking1 - October 16 - 1:39 pmWe replaced our aging MB R320 with the MKT. We checked competing vehicles but the Lincoln was the best value. The ride is good except on harsh roads, due to the optional 20" wheels. We are having no problems with Lincoln Sync and find it easy to use. The car is extremely quiet even compared to the MB. Handling is sharp, unlike the numb MB. The dual turbo do their job nicely. Gas mileage is as advertised so far. More foot room should be provided for the driver, the only real flaw so far. The safety features like blind spot warning and adaptive cruise control work great. Lane drift warning is annoying and I shut it off. I would not hesitate to recommend this car.
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Could Be Better - 2010 Lincoln MKT
By SkyKing - July 17 - 11:33 pmThe comfort and driving experience of this car is the equal of a Mercedes, Lexus or Infinity. Thats saying a lot for a Ford. It drives like a dream. Power and handling are exceptional. The backup camera is outstanding, although it takes about 10-15 seconds for it to come on after startup - not so good. Sound system is likewise exceptional, but it is complex to operate the Sync feature. I get errors when it connects to my iPhone, then it begins playing from my iPhone without my command, thus draining the iPhone battery. The Nav system is likewise needlessly complex, taking a half-dozen slow steps to do what my 2003 Acura could do with one spoken voice command.
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A True Luxury Car - 2010 Lincoln MKT
By Molodets - June 17 - 5:13 amI was intrigued by this car the first time I saw it and was sold on it after the test drive. Ive not been disappointed. The MKT handles great: it has ample pick-up and good braking; it hugs the road with a smooth, quiet ride. It has lots of features and conveniences that pamper the driver and passengers. Every time I drive it, I know Im in a luxury car.
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Better than Mercedes - 2010 Lincoln MKT
By Calgirl - June 5 - 6:53 amComfort....luxury......fun to drive.... FAST. Love it. Leg room is ample in all three rows. Love the double moon roof.
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I am loving it - 2010 Lincoln MKT
By PattySue - December 10 - 12:33 amI shopped for along time for a car and had never even heard of this car. On the day I went to close the deal on an MKX, I saw an MKT in the lot and thought it looked like a hearse. But when I looked inside it has the luxurious look I was looking for. Once I drove it - it was a done deal. Quiet, comfortable ride, good sounds, nice bells and whistles, and not that much of a departure from my Explorer - but a huge step up to a luxury vehicle that I wanted. I love this car and call it the Patmobile! Like me - its big, classy, unique and I dont see it going and coming.
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this people mover is rock - 2010 Lincoln MKT
By Scott - October 23 - 6:13 pmthe MKT is ridiculously quick, far faster than a luxury 7 -seats crossover should to be. interior is nice touched, the sync is user friendly. like the led taillight in the back. seats are very comfy,
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Very Nice Crossover - 2011 Lincoln MKT
By npdan - June 28 - 3:56 amNever thought we would buy an MKT as we had our sights set on a GMC Acadia Denali. We loved the looks of the Acadia but we decided to test drive a new MKT and that ended our thoughts of the Acadia. The Lincoln won every comparison in performance, equipment, handling, quietness and quality of interior materials. Only complaint on the Lincoln MKT is its worthless 3rd row seat. Anyone over the height of 5 feet can not sit back there. It is worthless for anyone except small children. This is our first new Lincoln and we are extremely happy with this car. It is a delightful touring car with lots of luxuries. For us, it has been a perfect fit.
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Great Car - 2014 Lincoln MKT
By william creekmore II - June 27 - 5:40 pmNever own a car that I enjoyed more. I have owned Cadillacs for over the last 30 years. I use to trade every two years. I have complaints of Cadillacs , but this Lincoln rides the best of any car I have every owned.
