2013 Lincoln MKT EcoBoost SUV

Lincoln focused on upgrading the MKT’s ride and handling for 2013. The new Lincoln Drive Control system comes standard on EcoBoost-equipped MKTs and offers Sport, Comfort, and Normal drive modes. We prefer the Sport mode as it noticeably tightens handling, a historical weakness for the big crossover. Larger brakes with improved cooling now give the MKT more confident braking.

A relatively larger crossover sport utility vehicle, the 2013 Lincoln MKT features a curvaceous body, with subtle flowing lines and an elegantly creased hood. Its look includes a broad tail, which adds a stylish touch to this luxurious vehicle. Measuring well above 200 inches in length, it comes in larger than other vehicles in its class, including the MDX and Enclave. Standard equipment includes 19-inch, painted alloy wheels with all-season tires, adaptive xenon headlights, a fixed glass sunroof, and rear parking sensors. A power panoramic glass sunroof, a fixed rear glass sunroof, and 20-inch wheels are available as options. A choice between several body colors is available, including Smoked Quartz Metallic Tinted Clearcoat, Crystal Champagne Metallic Tri-Coat, and Kodiak Brown Metallic.

The interior of the 2013 Lincoln MKT can be configured with seating for either six or seven in its three rows of seats. All materials are high quality and tastefully incorporated into an overall eye-pleasing design. Premium leather upholstery and genuine wood trim complements its lavish cabin, featuring a brand-new instrument panel and the Lincoln MyTouch system. This system features several useful functions, utilizing three display screens for entering various commands, including voice controls for audio, navigation, and phone functions. These commands can be a bit cumbersome to get used to while trying to drive, but put a lot of great functions at the driver’s fingertips. Seating is comfortable and supportive for all three rows, with plenty of head and legroom in the first two rows. The third row of seats can get a bit cramped for average-size adults. Front bucket seats include eight-way power adjustment, are height adjustable, and also provide power-adjustable lumbar support. Cargo space is ample, providing 17.9 cubic feet behind the third row of seats, and a generous 75.9 cubic feet when the second and third rows of seats are folded down. Full power accessories are provided, including four one-touch power windows. Standard equipment includes cruise control, three-zone climate control, and memorized settings for two drivers. Entertainment includes an AM/FM sound system with a CD player and MP3 playback, 10 total speakers, a three-month subscription to Sirius XM satellite radio, and a USB connection. Bluetooth wireless connectivity for hands-free calls is also included standard.

All of the basic standard safety features are included with the 2013 Lincoln MKT, such as four-wheel anti-lock brakes, stability and traction control, front-seat side-impact airbags, and side-curtain airbags for all three rows. Additional safety equipment is also featured, including rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, and second-row inflatable seat belts. Parents appreciate the MyKey feature, which restricts vehicle speed, wheelspin, and audio volume for their teenage kids who may drive the vehicle. The EcoBoost model offers a few additional features, such as a blind spot monitor and cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and collision warning with brake support. The MKT comes to a stop from 60 mph in 127 feet, which is about average for a vehicle in its class. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the vehicle its highest rating of ?Good? for its frontal- and side-impact tests, as well as its roof strength test.

The 2013 Lincoln MKT really stands out in terms of performance. Providing a sporty and rather speedy performance, the MKS also handles exceptionally well for a vehicle of its size. The ride is also quiet and comfortable for all, handling bumpy roads with ease. Two engines are available, though both provide an excellent helping of power. The 3.7-liter, six-cylinder engine provides 300 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. A front-drive system and a six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift control come standard. Estimated fuel economy for this engine stands at 17/24 mpg city/highway and 20 mpg combined. The MKT EcoBoost provides a heftier, twin-turbocharged, 3.5-liter, six-cylinder engine that makes a whopping 355 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel-drive system are optional on this vehicle. Fuel economy suffers a little, getting 16/22 mpg city/highway and 18 mpg combined. When equipped with this engine, the MKT goes from zero to 60 mph in an excellent 6.3 seconds, which is better than many vehicles in its class. The EcoBoost also includes an adaptive suspension that features three different driving modes.

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