Lincoln MKX Review

2008 Lincoln MKX SUV Shown

Encouraged by the sales success of other crossover sport-utility vehicles -- and to once again give it a presence in the midsize SUV class -- Lincoln has introduced the stylish, car-based MKX. Those familiar with Lincolns of the distant past might translate the "MKX" designation to mean Mark X, or "10," but in Lincoln newspeak the "X" indicates the MKX's status as a crossover vehicle.

The Lincoln MKX offers contemporary styling and a modern interior that moves the brand forward, though it lacks third-row seating capacity. As such, it's a little less family-friendly than some other sport-utilities in its segment. But Lincoln's first crossover still has a lot going for it, boasting a capable 3.5-liter V6 engine and plenty of room for people and cargo within its cabin. It also offers generous standard features, a quiet and comfortable ride and a distinctive exterior design, and it can be outfitted with Elite and Ultimate packages with premium items like surround-sound audio, heated and cooled front seats, and adaptive headlights. Also, for 2008, the Sync system is available, which allows voice activation of cell phones, PDAs and MP3 players.

Ultimately, however, the Lincoln MKX is yet another choice in the increasingly crowded luxury crossover SUV market. Though shoppers are likely to find the MKX's combination of clean, elegant styling, available high-end amenities and a reasonable price appealing, we'd suggest also checking out its many sport-utility competitors, as several offer a more refined driving experience, superior cabin materials and added versatility.

Current Lincoln MKX

The Lincoln MKX is a luxury midsize crossover SUV. Like other current Lincoln products, the MKX bears a heavy mechanical relation to a Ford product: in this case, the Ford Edge. Lincoln differentiates its version mostly through a signature Lincoln grille, unique full-width taillight design and additional feature content.

The singular MKX trim level comes with 18-inch wheels, leather seating, dual-zone automatic climate control and a leather-and-wood steering wheel. A full assortment of safety features is also present, including traction control and stability control with rollover mitigation, front-seat side-impact airbags and full-length side curtain airbags.

Notable options are offered in groups. The Elite Package contains the Vista Roof -- a sliding front sunroof and fixed rear skylight -- a navigation system and 14-speaker surround-sound audio with in-dash CD changer/MP3 player and satellite radio. The Ultimate Package adds items like chrome wheels, heated and cooled seats, adaptive headlights, a power rear liftgate and 10-way power front seats with memory. For 2008, some features that were formally optional became standard, such as heated/cooled seats, satellite radio and reverse park assist. The stand-alone options include heated rear seats and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system.

Every Lincoln MKX is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 that makes 265 horsepower and 250 pound-feet of torque, with either front-wheel or all-wheel drive. A modern six-speed automatic transmission is the only one offered; unfortunately, it lacks a manual shift mode and provides limited access to lower gears.

In a nod to Lincolns past, the MKX's dash and gauge cluster have a retro look with metallic-looking finish, real wood accents and a squarish gauge array. It's a conservative look overall inside, but materials quality is only average for a premium-brand SUV. Lincoln's midsize crossover seats up to five in the roomy first two rows, but there's no third row and maximum cargo capacity is just 69 cubic feet -- less than what's available inside many of its competitors.

On the road its 3.5-liter V6 doesn't provide blistering acceleration, but it's smoother and gutsier than any Ford-based V6 in recent memory. The MKX's cabin remains quiet even at highway speeds, and handling is respectable for a 2-ton-plus SUV. The steering is nicely weighted, too, which makes it very manageable around town. We found the brakes to be a disappointment, though -- the pedal feel is progressive, but the Lincoln's braking distances feel long even in city traffic.

Past Lincoln MKX models

The Lincoln MKX luxury crossover debuted as an all-new vehicle in 2007.

SELECT A SPECIFIC LINCOLN MKX MODEL YEAR*

* Edmunds.com maintains vehicle data as far back as 1990.