2011 Lincoln MKX Base
MSRP $39,415
A Lincoln MKX is sorta like a Ford Edge, but different. For awhile, now, Lincolns have been luxury versions of Ford models, with more-striking exterior designs. The MKX doesn’t deviate too far from their standard business model. In this case, the question is whether the MKX has done enough to differentiate itself from its luxury-impaired platform mate.
The 2011 Lincoln MKX is a midsize luxury crossover SUV that seats five. It has a 3.7 liter, V6 engine that produces 305 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. It has front-wheel drive, 18-inch alloy wheels, and a 6-speed automatic transmission with manual shift paddles. It is rated at 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. An upgrade to all-wheel drive is available, which reduces mileage to 17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.
The MKX comes with plenty of conveniences to justify its luxury status. It has keyless entry, keyless ignition, heated and ventilated power-adjustable front seats with driver memory function, auto-dimming interior mirrors, auto-dimming driver’s side exterior mirrors, a tilt-telescope steering wheel, leather upholstery, 2-zone climate control, power liftgate, MyLncoln Touch electronics interface, and the Ford Sync electronics interface. The audio system has 10 speakers, Bluetooth, AM/FM radio, CD/MP3 player, a USB/iPod port, an audio jack, and a SD card reader. Options packages that will put the MKX on a par with most European luxury vehicles are available.
The MKX has the standard modern safety equipment: stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, side front airbags, and side curtain airbags. It also has the Ford MyKey system which allows adults to program keys for younger drivers with maximum speed and volume controls. Under 2010 government test standards, the MKX got perfect scores of five stars for driver protection on both the front and side impact tests, and scores of four stars for front passenger protection. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave it a best score of “good” for frontal offset, and second-best rating of “acceptable” for roof strength.
Conclusions and driver feedback:
The cabin is very attractive, and very worthy of the luxury label. The materials are high-quality and the design is practical with an understated air of luxury. The seats are very comfortable, and there is plenty of headroom and legroom all around. The passenger space may be the best in its class. There are 32.3 cubic feet of cargo space in the back, with a total of 69 feet available with the rear seat folded down.
The engine and transmission are more than enough to handle acceleration and give a very smooth ride at highway speeds, but you really wouldn’t call the MKX “peppy.” The handling is ordinary at best, though. The steering is responsive, but the suspension is mushy, resulting in body roll while turning. The upside is that the passengers will never feel it. The ride is extremely smooth and quiet.
The verdict: highly recommended and worthy of luxury title.
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