2013 Lincoln MKS

Significant mechanical upgrades give the MKS more power, better fuel economy, and a much more composed ride over a variety of road surfaces. The Sync system is upgraded to include operator assist and in-car Wi-Fi hot-spot capability for passengers. A revised interior offers new color combinations and higher-quality materials.

The most conspicuous change in the 2013 Lincoln MKS's exterior is the winged grille with vertical slats that cover most of the vehicle's front. The hood has more contours, while the smooth bodylines flow towards the rear, keeping the visual tone understated. However, twin tailpipes furnish the sedan with a sense of quiet power. The 2013 Lincoln MKS can be had in various exterior colors, which include Crystal Champagne, Silver Diamond, White Platinum, Ginger Ale, Kodiak Brown, Ruby Red, Smoked Quartz, and Tuxedo Black.

The 2013 Lincoln MKS is being offered in front-drive, all-wheel-drive, and EcoBoost trim levels. The front-drive and all-wheel-drive models are fitted with 19-inch alloy wheels, adaptive high-intensity discharge xenon headlamps, LED taillights, fog lamps with chrome surround, heated mirrors, and rain-sensing windshield wipers. The EcoBoost version is equipped with all of these, but also has a twin-turbocharged engine, active noise control, 20-inch wheels, and standard all-wheel drive.

The 2013 MKS has abundant interior space, with seating for five passengers. Legroom and headroom is generous, while the rear passenger comfort level is impressive. The trunk has a capacity of 18.4 cubic feet. The eight-way power driver and front-passenger seats are heated and cooled, while four-way lumbar adjustment and driver memory settings make sure that comfort level of the MKS is unmatched. The luxurious Bridge of Weir leather seating and wood accents on the instrument panel give the interior and air of elegance. There is also a 10-speaker audio system, with the standard CD player, satellite radio, and USB/iPod connectivity.

The inside the 2013 Lincoln MKS, subtle ambient lighting, and sweeping lines add to the sense of luxury. The quality of material used is excellent, while attention is given to detail. Compared with other vehicles in this category, the MKS is sophisticated but somewhat complicated. Buttons on the steering wheel allow control of most functions, while information is displayed on the LCD screens on either side of the speedometer, or the larger LCD screen that displays audio and navigation functions as well. There are three leather and wood trim combinations: Hazelnut Leather with Prussian Burl Wood, Light Dune Leather with Prussian Burl Wood, and Charcoal Black Leather with Brown Swirl Walnut Wood.

The Lincoln MKS has grown into a more elegant premium package with subtle yet significant changes in its body. The 2013 MKS still sports the distinctive grille, which is narrower and sleeker than previous models. The interior is richer and acoustics better. The much hyped MyLincoln Touch system may not be as user-friendly as one may expect, but it does being a healthy dose of technology into the equation.

LCD screens are part of the MyLincoln Touch interface. They provide occupants the ability to issue commands for audio, navigation and Bluetooth functions. This can be done through touch and voice controls. It is an intelligent concept that allows convenience and customization. However, some users may find the system not very intuitive and difficult to get used to. There have also been complains of glitches in the system.

Traction and stability control come standard with the 2013 Lincoln MKS, along with dual-stage front airbags, side curtain airbags, safety belt usage sensors, safety belt pretensioners, crash severity sensor, and a driver’s seat position sensor.

Blind-spot warning, lane-departure warning, a rearview camera, adaptive cruise control, and collision warning are all available as options. However, anti-lock brakes and tire pressure monitoring are standard, and so are anti-theft alarm and a post-collision safety system.

When driven, the 2013 Lincoln MKS feels big and strong. The 3.7-liter, 24-valve, V-6 engine that makes 304 horsepower allows the 2013 Lincoln MKS to ride along the freeway with authority. The six-speed, automatic transmission is smooth and the electric power steering is responsive. Outside noise is minimized with the help of effective sound deadening material. However, the turbocharged, 3.5-liter, V-6 EcoBoost model, producing 365 horsepower and sporting standard all-wheel drive, produces an acceleration one would expect from a V-8 engine, something the base model obviously cannot achieve.

Cornering and emergency response is up to par with the MKS's adaptive suspension, without affecting the smoothness of the ride. In spite of its focus on comfort and its size, the Lincoln MKS is quite agile with the handling. EPA-estimated mileage for the MKS is 19/28 mpg city/highway for the front-drive model and 18/26 mpg city/highway for the all-wheel-drive model. The larger brakes feel strong and make the handling of the Lincoln MKS feel secure.

The two engine options have seen improvement in efficiency and output, while powertrains are basically the same. There is a new and improved adaptive suspension system that employs computerized dampers that improve the vehicle's handling and ride. Although the MKS, Lincoln's flagship model, faces tough competition from its German counterparts, it is still cheaper when equipped similarly and is very much an American product.

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