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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  Wanted it to be better.... - 2008 Lincoln MKX
  By LHC - September 5 - 11:43 pm

  When I first laid eyes on my 2008 White Chocolate "Tri-coat" Limited Edition and was in love! It was everything I wanted and more. I had shopped extensively, and being used to high-end vehicles, was amazed at the array of options that came with the MKX. Exterior/interior were gorgeous! Ive had it almost two years now, and still get stares while on the road. We all know what they are, so Ill decline to mention them here, again. However, after only two years, my lovely car must go. It seems to stay in the shop more than in my garage! The service dept seems clueless, too, with this SUV. So, I hate it, but Im looking to trade. I envy you guys who are not having trouble. Beautiful car!

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  Imports Beware! - 2010 Lincoln MKX
  By FredM - August 20 - 2:06 am

  Imports Beware! Just took delivery of my MKX and my wife and I are very happy. I am in the automotive business so I was able to do a lot of research and test drives on similar Crossovers and found the MKX the best in safety (5 Star) and value. Went to Orlando this weekend, a 3 hour trip and the MKX met all our expectations: Comfort, Fuel Mileage and Luggage space. This vehicle is replacing a BMW that I had for 3 years and the car was wonderful so the MKX needed to fill big shoes and it did. The X5 would have been my other choice but was smaller and almost 15-20k more. The X3 was out of the line up as it was even smaller. All the other imports in my opinion were over priced and over rated.

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  Sweet Ride - 2009 Lincoln MKX
  By Penney - August 14 - 9:13 am

  I gave my husband the MKX for his 50th birthday. He had always wanted a Lincoln and needs AWD to reliably make it to work. He loves this car. It is fun to drive, he likes the height, it is powerful and the computer is great. So far the computer had to be replaced at 15K because the blue tooth failed and the exterior driver side door handle came off in his hand at 17K. Lincoln replaced everything without charge but it was a hassle.

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  Love the MKX - 2010 Lincoln MKX
  By LoveMyRide - August 10 - 11:46 pm

  Weve had our MKX for about a month now. We were previous Cadillac owners but I have to say I love the Lincoln. It has great toys and the Nav system is wonderful. Very comfortable, fun to drive and very sexy. We are still learning how to operate all the gadgets but I love it.

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  Second Post - 2008 Lincoln MKX
  By KeyedUp - July 31 - 8:20 pm

  Ive had such good experience with this car, I had to send in another review. Gas mileage has greatly improved. Pure interstate driving yeilded 25 MPG and around town at 16 MPG so Im very pleased for this sized auto. Comfort, fit and finish all very good and the ride gets better everytime Im in the car. Now, my wife has discovered the MKX so shes driving it whenever possible. She like the great visiability without the big SUV size.

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  They need to get it right - 2007 Lincoln MKX
  By Fred Flint - May 29 - 9:03 pm

  Ford needs to develop vehicles that can compete with off shore product. The MKX is own has had the head lamps replaced - the rear license plate light due to rust - the radio and NAV system replaced - the auto trunk opening motor and struts, a panel that had started to rust after only 19 months of service and roof moldings that wouldnt stay locked. The tires needed to be replaced due to cupping attributed to a balance issue. The dealer provided the warranty service but didnt check alignment so I bought new tires. This is(was) my 10th and last Ford product. Just a heads up to future Ford/Lincoln Edge and MKX buyers - beware !

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  Great vehicle but - 2008 Lincoln MKX
  By Jim - May 29 - 12:23 pm

  This car is a pleasure to drive and especially to look at. I have never had a vehicle get as many admiring looks and compliments. Heres the "but" from the title. Ford is having a tremendous problem with the PTU in the Edge and MKX. Mine has been back 4 times with leaking seals. Ford has no idea how to correct the problem. I am very disappointed with the company. The car is absolutely wonderful but the experience is being ruined by the mechanical problem that Ford cannot fix. If they finally get it right the car will be wonderful. Take a look at the Edge forum on Fords site and see just what I am talking about.

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  Glad I bought this hot MKX - 2008 Lincoln MKX
  By Bud Andrews - May 28 - 2:40 am

  This is a great car and I truly enjoy driving it. Had a major road trip from mid south up to Niagara Falls and back this past summer. The MKX really shines on road trips, with plenty of power and quiet comfort. (Amazing - no road noise! No sqeaks or rattles!) Its a V6 but it has all the zip of a V8. The satellite radio, sound system, MS Sync, power and USB ports are all terrific. Couldnt do without them now.

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  Elliotts MKX Update - 2008 Lincoln MKX
  By ELLIOTT - May 24 - 5:06 pm

  Have now owned the car for one year and have 10,000 miles. No problems, in for oil change only. Leather and interior looks brand new, outside paint is almost perfect - no dings or chips. Actual gas mileage is 19.1 from inception. Car gets a lot of compliments. Paint job is much better that wifes similarily priced Toyota. Sync is superior system, the phone quality is crystal clear. Sound system is fantastic. The car still smells new. Very pleased with the purchase.

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  Disappointed - 2007 Lincoln MKX
  By Unhappy - May 18 - 4:40 pm

  It is more like driving a car than a SUV. The ride is rough and the gas mileage is not up to what Lincoln indicates that it will be. It doesnt have the usual Lincoln qualities. This vehicle is identical to the Ford Edge except for a few cosmetics.