Lincoln entered the luxury crossover segment in 2010 with the all-new MKT, and the big ute hasn't changed much in the intervening two years. The MKT, which is essentially a Ford Flex in Lincoln garb, still offers buyers three rows of seats, a mass of interior space, and a host of luxury amenities such as adaptive cruise control, a head-up display, adaptive HID headlamps, and a collision-warning system with brake support. Ford's Sync system is available on the MKT and now comes with a three-year prepaid subscription to the system's premium services. Hiding behind Lincoln's signature split-wing grille is Ford's 268-hp, 3.7-liter V-6, which comes standard on front-wheel-drive models. Those wanting an upgrade to all-wheel drive will find Ford's 3.5-liter twin-turbo EcoBoost V-6, which produces a hefty 355 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed SelectShift automatic transmission with paddle shifters mounted to the steering wheel and optimized final-drive gearing allow the MKT to achieve up to 17 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway on the EPA test cycle. Extensive suspension engineering and special sound deadening enhance the luxurious feel for all three rows. The MKT combines a luxury experience with the muscle of Class III towing when properly equipped.
The Range
Drive: Front-wheel, 4-wheel
Trim levels: MKT, MKT EcoBoost
Body style: SUV/crossover, 6- or 7-passenger
Engines: 3.5L turbo V-6, 355 hp, 350 lb-ft
3.7L V-6, 268 hp, 267 lb-ft
Transmission: 6-speed automatic
Passenger volume: 141.9 cu ft
Capacities: Towing 4500 lb; cargo (behind third/middle/front seats) 17.9/39.6/75.9 cu ft
What's New
Lincoln discontinued the 3.7-liter V-6 MKT model with AWD for 2012 and lowered the price of the 3.5-liter V-6 EcoBoost AWD model by $3000. A variety of new exterior paint colors debut for 2012, including black, dark blue pearl metallic, cinnamon metallic, mineral gray metallic, and crystal champagne metallic. MKTs equipped with a 60/40-split second-row bench seat now have a fold-down armrest with dual cupholders.
Safety
ABS; front, side, and side curtain air bags; and traction and stability control are standard. A blind-spot monitoring system, adaptive cruise control, parallel-parking assistance, programmable MyKey, a collision-warning system with brake support, a head-up display, and adaptive headlamps are optional.
EPA Fuel Economy
All: 16-17 mpg city/23-24 mpg highway
You'll Like
- Flexible cargo space
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Stylish interior
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Available all-wheel drive
You Won't Like
- Not the prettiest face
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Tight third row
Sum Up
A respectable three-row luxury crossover.
If You Like This Vehicle
- Buick Enclave
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Lexus GX460
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Mercedes-Benz R-class
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Volvo XC90