Flash Drive

2016 Lincoln MKX

June 22, 2016 - Behind The Wheel - Comments: 

 Model Tested: 2016 Lincoln MKX AWD

The 2016 Lincoln MKX is handsomely styled and rolls on premium 20-inch wheels.
The 2016 Lincoln MKX is handsomely styled and rolls on premium 20-inch wheels.

Engine: 2.7-liter turbocharged V-6 gas, 335 horsepower 380 lb-ft torque

Transmission: 6-speed automatic, all-wheel-drive

EPA Ratings: 17/City—24/Highway—19/Combined

Base Price: $47,650

As Tested: $61,760

Performance:

Surprising horsepower from small displacement V-6 (2.7L)

Great torque

Very car-like handling for an SUV

The 2.7L emblem is deceptive; the small V-6 produces 335 hp.
The 2.7L emblem is deceptive; the small V-6 produces 335 hp.

Adaptive damping suspension

Paddle shifters

No AWD controls

Luxurious highway ride

Reverse sensing system

Rain sensing wipers

Lane keeping assist

Adaptive cruise control

Comfort:

Luxury is a keynote

Excellent attention to style and design

High quality materials and execution

Front seat comfort and luxury are outstanding.
Front seat comfort and luxury are outstanding.

Great front row comfort, stretch-out legroom

Ample headroom

Thick, mildly contoured leather steering wheel

Heated steering wheel

Power tilt/telescopic steering column

Heated and ventilated front seats

Superb power lumbar support

Delightful power massage feature

Good rear seat room

Heated outboard positions

Excellent shoe space under front seats

Good rear headroom

Minimal floor hump

Soft rear armrest with pop-out cupholders

Interior design and style are evident in the graceful, flowing lines as seen on this console detail.
Interior design and style are evident in the graceful, flowing lines as seen on this console detail.

Utility:

OK functionality, but more about style

Large front door bins

Deep center console bin

Large open storage under center console

Small, shallow glovebox with power release

Power rear window shade

Two small seatback storage pouches

Medium rear door bins

Power split folding rear seats

Slight slant to folder seats

Hands-free power liftgate

Flat cargo floor

Nice storage bins under floor

WOW Factors:

High style, plush interior

The grille is bold and distinctive.
The grille is bold and distinctive.

Impressive twin-turbocharged V-6

Mirrors auto open/fold upon approach/departure

Lincoln symbol in approach lighting

Hands-free liftgate

Panoramic Vista Roof with power shade

Whines:

Fuel economy less than expected from high tech V-6

We’re not crazy about huge grille

A power glovebox release seems excessive

Expensive; all this luxury isn’t cheap

Bottom Line:

The 2016 Lincoln MKX is all about style and comfort. The front seats rival any luxury home environment. The driving experience is excellent for a crossover SUV. Pricing is brash considering that the MKX is based on the much less expensive Ford Edge.