Used 2018 Lincoln MKX

While the 2018 Lincoln MKX still wears an older version of the signature Lincoln grille and front-end treatment, it’s far from obsolete. This 5-passenger luxury SUV offers a softer side that is increasingly difficult to find in competitors like the BMW X5 and Jaguar F-Pace, midsize luxury SUVs that sometimes sacrifice a smooth ride in the name of aggressive handling. The MKX isn’t large enough to accommodate big families, but it is ideal for those seeking a modestly sized mode of personal transportation. Loaded with such premium features as 22-way-adjustable front seats and a Revel 19-speaker audio system, the 2018 Lincoln MKX knows how to pamper its passengers while still offering acceptable levels of performance and handling expected of this class.

When equipped with the 355-horsepower twin-turbocharged 2.7-liter GTDI V6, the 2018 Lincoln MKX is quite a sizzling performer. Having more than 100 lb-ft additional torque versus the standard 3.7-liter V6, the turbo engine delivers the kind of power required to move this 4,300-pound SUV with urgency, especially when passing or merging. We also prefer the turbocharged engine for its fuel economy, which is actually better than the less powerful base engine. As much fun as the MKX is in a straight line, however, it isn’t as dialed-in when the road starts to bend. The ride is comfortable, the steering is firm but still a bit vague, and there’s more lean than in an Audi Q5 or Infiniti QX70. The best situation for the MKX and its occupants is long-distance cruising where comfort is paramount.

Elegant color combinations and high-quality materials like supple leather on the seats and aluminum-and-wood accents highlight the Lincoln MKX for 2018. 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 the new Sync 3 system, which uses an 8-inch touch screen to control Bluetooth, audio, climate and navigation. Optional on Select and Reserve trims are two available Revel audio systems.

The overall shape of Lincoln’s 2018 MKX luxury SUV is similar to that of its kin, the previous-generation Ford Edge, but there are some styling cues that separate the two. The MKX employs a 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.

2.7-LITER TWIN-TURBOCHARGED GTDI V6
The 2.7-liter twin-turbocharged V6 in the MKX is a wonderful engine that delivers more horsepower and torque than the base 3.7-liter V6, yet actually delivers the same or better fuel economy. The engine’s ample low-end torque helps move the MKX with authority.

22-WAY POWER-ADJUSTABLE MASSAGING SEATS
The 2018 Lincoln MKX displays its luxury credentials with overkill, and that’s just what a luxury car should do. An available set of 22-way power-adjustable seats can not only find the ideal driving position, they can heat, cool and even massage their occupants.

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 3, 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.

Options for the MKX include the 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. The Driver Assist package adds lane-departure warning and lane-keeping aid, adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning with active braking and more. Then there’s the Lincoln Black Label, a trim level that’s treated like an exclusive membership. You get a personal liaison, complimentary car washes, free annual detailing, vehicle pickup and drop-off for service, and access to the Culinary Experience at restaurants with acclaimed chefs.

Lincoln offers two engine choices for the 2018 MKX luxury SUV. First is the tried-and-true 3.7-liter V6, which is the standard powerplant. Pony up an additional $2,000 and you can get a 2.7-liter twin-turbo GTDI V6 offering 32 more horsepower than in the 3.7-liter V6, 102 more lb-ft of torque with 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: 17/25 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: 18/25 mpg (FWD), 17/24 mpg (AWD)