The Lincoln MKT crossover is an enigma of sorts that proved the brand was willing to take risks with a unique design when critics suggested otherwise. Now, whether or not that risk has or will pay off is another debate entirely, but the MKT does prove that Ford's luxury arm is capable of producing very different looking vehicles that still share a common platform. Developed under codename D472, the MKT shares its platform with the Ford Flex, despite a considerably different appearance. In fact, the two vehicles do not share a single piece of sheet metal, making the only commonality the platform hiding underneath. For the latest model year Lincoln has refreshed the CUV so that it carries the same new cosmetic DNA as found on the rest of the lineup, including the MKS sedan.
But looks aren't the only thing freshened for the latest model year as Lincoln has upped its game for the standard engine – a 3.7-liter V6, now good for 300 horsepower, up from 268. Torque comes in at 275 lb-ft, and fuel economy stays at 17 for the city, but increases by one to 25 on the highway.
But while those changes are all and well, the reality is a staggering nine out of 10 MKT buyers opt for the 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine, good for 355 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque – unchanged for the latest model year. The EcoBoost models comes with all-wheel drive standard, but with a computer that can automatically fully disengage the rear wheels when not needed to improve fuel economy – able to switch back on in just 16 milliseconds.
Both engines make use of a six-speed SelectShift automatic transmission, although the EcoBoosted models get a slightly stronger version. SelectShift gives drivers of the MKT full gear selection control, with no engine override, and can be controlled by paddle shifters mounted to the steering wheel.
Biggest change is underneath it all
Although changes throughout can be found on the new MKT, likely the biggest changes come in the form of new chassis technology, including Continuously Controlled Damping on the EcoBoost models. CCD makes use of 46 different inputs to send over 23,000 different packets of data to a computer each second, all helping to make decisions and adjustments to several aspects of the suspension based on the immediate road conditions.
Although changes throughout can be found on the new MKT, likely the biggest changes come in the form of new chassis technology, including Continuously Controlled Damping on the EcoBoost models. CCD makes use of 46 different inputs to send over 23,000 different packets of data to a computer each second, all helping to make decisions and adjustments to several aspects of the suspension based on the immediate road conditions.
CCD calculates the optimal damping force 500 times per second – making the mechanical changes 20 times per second on average, but up to 50 in the same time frame. The result? Body roll is down by up to 20 percent, understeer down by as much as 25 percent - while all the while improving comfort.
Another system aiding drivers and occupants in their travels is Lincoln Drive Control, which offers three default settings: Sport, Normal and Comfort. Sport Mode changes include a more responsive throttle, more precise steering, higher upshifts, less intrusive traction control and electronic stability control and a firmer suspension for minimized body roll.
Opting for Normal Mode will provide the best balance for daily driving, while Comfort Mode is intended for long Sunday drives or bumpy roads.
More technology, comfort, features inside
Luxury cars are defined by their elegance, style, power and refinement, but interior technology is continually becoming a major hallmark of the modern luxury vehicle. To that, Lincoln has equipped the latest MKT with the latest version of MyLincoln Touch, an infotainment system with two 4.2-inch reconfigurable LCD screens and a single eight-inch LCD screen.
Luxury cars are defined by their elegance, style, power and refinement, but interior technology is continually becoming a major hallmark of the modern luxury vehicle. To that, Lincoln has equipped the latest MKT with the latest version of MyLincoln Touch, an infotainment system with two 4.2-inch reconfigurable LCD screens and a single eight-inch LCD screen.
Standard audio comes from an eight-speaker, 210-watt system, while optional equipment includes an audiophile-approved, THX II certified system with 700 watts and 14 speakers.
Occupants will enjoy 12-way adjustable seats, with the first two rows covered in Bridge of Weir leather, from Scotland, giving a truly high-end luxury appearance and feel. The driver is treated with adjustable pedals and power tilt/telescoping steering wheel that is also heated.
Lincoln says that it has also made the cabin more quiet than the outgoing model, another hallmark of luxury.
Other improvements include the addition of inflatable seatbelts to the second row, which helps distribute force in an accident across five times as much area.
The crossover also gains or retains Curve Control, to help regain control if drivers take offramps too quickly, Lane Keeping Alert, Collision Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Information System and MyKey.
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