Used 2016 Lincoln MKX

Lincoln’s new MKX is a comfortable, roomy 2-row SUV that is more highway cruiser than sporty canyon-carver. There is plenty of power: The base 3.7-liter V6 will be enough for most buyers, but the engine with the most gusto is the new optional 335-horsepower EcoBoost turbocharged V6. This luxury SUV, which is based on the Ford Edge, also has plenty of space for five people and their gear, and goes beyond what the Edge has to offer. For 2016, the Lincoln MKX is more nicely equipped, is loaded with safety features and is more refined, making it the most luxurious MKX to date. That makes it better prepared to go up against competitors such as the Lexus RX, Cadillac SRX and Audi Q5.

For 2016, Lincoln has introduced a highly compelling option to the MKX: a 335-horsepower turbocharged V6 EcoBoost engine. This engine has significantly more torque than the standard 3.7-liter – more than 100 lb-ft more. That power increase makes the MKX move along at a brisk pace. This is not a lightweight SUV, which you can feel when taking turns on a twisty road, yet the EcoBoost makes the MKX feel light-footed on the highway. Adding to the EcoBoost’s appeal: It’s EPA rated as having better fuel economy than the standard engine. The ride is comfortable and cushy, while steering and handling are relaxed. The EcoBoost engine is fantastic, and the MKX is powerful, but those who are looking for a taut, sporty SUV need not look here. This is an SUV that’s practically born to be a cross-country cruiser.

Elegant color combinations and high-quality materials like supple leather on the seats and aluminum and wood accents highlight the Lincoln MKX for 2016. The huge Panoramic Vista Roof gives the interior a light, airy feel. The Lincoln MKX’s second row is pleasantly roomy, and with nearly 40 inches of rear-seat legroom (even more in front), it’s easy to stretch out. The hub of the center stack is Sync with MyLincoln Touch, which uses an 8-inch touch screen to control Bluetooth, audio, climate and navigation. New for 2016 are two available Revel audio systems.

The overall shape of the 2016 Lincoln MKX is similar to that of its kin the Ford Edge, but there are some styling cues that separate the two. The MKX uses Lincoln’s split grille, plus generous use of LED lighting. The MKX comes standard with 18-inch wheels, which can be upped to 20- or 21-inch wheels with Lincoln’s top-of-the-line Black Label. In addition to a choice of interior themes, it adds exclusive paint colors and badges to the MKX’s exterior.

ECOBOOST ENGINE
The 2.7-liter EcoBoost engine offers more horsepower and significantly more torque than the standard engine, making a somewhat heavy SUV feel light. It accomplishes this while achieving the same or better fuel economy as the base engine.

22-WAY POWER-ADJUSTABLE MASSAGING SEATS
These heated and cooled cushy seats wrapped in soft leather ensure you can get in just the right driving position, but the added bonus is the seat massager. This feature may seem more opulent than functional, but the massagers can help reduce driver fatigue and backaches on a long drive.

Included in the base price of the Lincoln MKX (Premiere trim) are cool features like LED taillights and a reverse-sensing system, plus heated side mirrors. Also heated is the standard 10-way-power driver seat. A media hub is included, as are Sync with MyLincoln Touch, a 9-speaker audio system and a rearview camera. Other standard niceties include a particulate air-filtration system, remote start, torque-vectoring control and curve control.

Where the Lincoln MKX really shines is in the options. The torquey EcoBoost engine. Revel audio systems, with up to 19 speakers. The huge Panoramic Vista Roof. Front seats that aren’t just heated and cooled, but also are 22-way-adjustable and have seat massagers. Voice-activated navigation. Then there’s the Lincoln Black Label, a trim level that’s treated like an exclusive membership. You get a liaison that helps you throughout the purchase of an MKX, complimentary car washes anytime and a free annual detailing, vehicle pickup and drop-off for service and access to the Culinary Experience at restaurants with acclaimed chefs.

For 2016, Lincoln adds an optional engine to the MKX. Last year’s 3.7-liter V6 returns, but now buyers can get a 2.7-liter twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 for an added cost of $2,000. You get a lot for that two large – 32 more horsepower than in the 3.7-liter V6, 102 more lb-ft of torque and no fuel-efficiency penalty. In fact, the EcoBoost engine meets or beats the 3.7-liter’s fuel economy, whether the MKX is front- or all-wheel drive (FWD, AWD). Both engines come with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

3.7-liter V6
303 horsepower @ 6,500 rpm
278 lb-ft of torque @ 4,000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 17/26 mpg (FWD), 16/23 mpg (AWD)

2.7-liter twin-turbocharged V6
335 horsepower @ 5,500 rpm
380 lb-ft of torque @ 3,000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 17/26 mpg (FWD), 17/24 mpg (AWD)