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:
Showing 31 through 40 of 43.00-
Worth Every Penny & Beautiful - 2010 Lincoln MKT
By MRBIO - June 3 - 5:53 amThe styling is unique, which is why I bought it. I do not want a car like every other car on the road. I compared to Audi Q7, Acura MDX, BMW X5 and Buick Enclave. What other car has heated and cooled front and 2nd row seats, a fridge/freezer between the 2nd row seats, power fold 2nd and 3rd row seats, and safety like this? For the money, it is a great deal. Oh, and it is worth the extra money over the ford Flex (the box). The quality of the interior cannot even be compared.
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Do not buy - 2012 Lincoln MKT
By zaabby - April 8 - 8:35 pmI am very disappointed with this car. It is my fault I bought it howeverÂ…. It is very uncomfortable on long trips as it is too narrow. The two zone comfort system is a fake; as there is only one fan. Thus the zone with the greatest different controlÂ’s the fan. The safety system is silly; it beeps and you get a message on the screen telling to look around. Plus it has lots of other poor design choices. When the wind blows it will whistle, also when someone pass you when the wind blowing it will whistle
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Really great crossover if you have the bucks - 2013 Lincoln MKT
By Robinson F. Asitimbay - March 16 - 8:29 pmThe car itself is a great machine. Very fast acceleration and its comfortable. Its pretty good in gas, and pretty fast. Rides 7 of us and has done a lot of traveling. Although the car is great and looks amazing in and out, the maintaince is horrible. The pieces are off this land, and everything is soooo expensive. I think a highlander wouldve been cheaper and maybe just as nice.
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Great Highway Cruiser - 2010 Lincoln MKT
By Tripper - February 16 - 10:36 amI was originally going to buy the MKS, but when I drove an MKT I fell in love with the interior plus the versatility of the crossover design. Highway driving is actually fun...the adaptive cruise is incredible, sound system and sync are state of the art. The seats are incredibly comfortable and despite the somewhat limited view sideways and back, the extra large mirrors and blindspot warning system make up for those defeciencies. Personally I love the exterior design, but understand it is love it or hate it for most people. I do love having a unique luxury vehicle...not just another Lexus RX!
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Great New Car from an American Company - 2010 Lincoln MKT
By RH in Bucks County - January 19 - 12:13 pmI just received the Lincoln and couldnt be more pleased. First off, I special ordered it and received it one day short of 4 weeks! I test drove the Lexus GX460 and the Acura MDX. This car has a better and quieter ride and significantly more room. It is features loaded and thousands of dollars less expensive than the Lexus. My only concern is the long term relability of the vehicle. So far, Im ectastic about buying it and HIGHLY recommend it to others.
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awesome car - 2010 Lincoln MKT
By sally - June 15 - 10:56 amI love this car, could not ask for anything better. Has alot of power, I bought the ecoboost engine and the acceleration is great... I like to haul alot of antiques, so having the option to fold down the rear seats gives me alot of cargo space.
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Great Car - 2010 Lincoln MKT
By tjg846 - March 13 - 11:20 amI have about 5,000 miles on my MKT. It is no Ford Flex. The car is smooth plush and very nicely appointed. Interior is very comfortable and extremely well designed. The 3rd seat is a bit tight-but who cares its for kids or for smaller adults for short trips. I did not want a mini van. Lincoln did a fantastic job on this car and deserves a thumbs up. All and all Im very satisfied with this car. Incidentally, Im not a Ford person--- this car has made a believer out of me. Ford can make a great car!!
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Lincoln plus MKT EcoBoost = Great Auto - 2010 Lincoln MKT
By frpda205 - January 19 - 9:33 pmTo think this was a Ford Flex. Theres no comparison. The Flex and the MKt are built on the same chassis and you would never know it. The ride is Great, the style is great, the features in my car are truly outstanding. I factory ordered this car and the wait was well worth it. Adaptive cruise is a must for all cars, Collision Warning - a must, Sway control with the Factory Class 3 hitch is a must.
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Comfort and Performance - 2010 Lincoln MKT
By tracyd - December 14 - 2:20 amLooked at several other "cross overs" but once behind the wheel of the MKT, the decision was easy. The MKT handles great and the EcoBoost gives it acceleration you might not expect in car of this size/mass. Sync Navigation system is incredible. Never thought I would want/need a car that would park itself but park assist actually works very well when needed. Fit and finish is outstanding. Third row is really only for the smaller folks but it can haul a lot with the seats folded down. Rear seat entertainment system is great with a lot of options for gaming, etc. for those in the second row. Cant get a very good read on fuel economy yet as still under 1,000 miles (had 13 at purchase).
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My MKT - 2010 Lincoln MKT
By Docmo - December 10 - 1:13 pmOverall, I am exceptionally pleased with this vehicle. Mine is a fully loaded EcoBoost. Like most, I wish the gas mileage was a bit better. Still, the vehicle has great power and refinement.
