2016 Lincoln MKT

The 2016 Lincoln MKT is powered by a 3.7-liter V6 engine or an optional 3.5-liter turbocharged Ecoboost V6 engine. Both powerplants are connected to a six-speed automatic transmission.

The MKT is available in two trim levels that determine engine and drive type:

• The base 3.7-liter V6 is paired with front-wheel drive and starts at $43,370
• The 3.5-liter Ecoboost with mandatory all-wheel drive is priced from $45,365

The 2016 Lincoln MKT is powered by a 303-horsepower 3.7-liter V6 with 278 pound-feet of torque. An optional 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged Ecoboost V6 engine produces 365-horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque. All MKT models utilize a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters for manual gear selection.

• Considering that you receive the more powerful Ecoboost engine and the accompanying all-wheel drive system for less than a $2,000 price difference, the top-trim model is quite compelling, especially in colder climates.
• Fuel economy ranges from 17 mpg city and 25 mpg highway for the base 3.7-liter model to 16 mpg city and 23 mpg highway for the 3.5-liter.
• The MKT offers a compliant ride for a three-row crossover. Steering is precise and Ecoboost models add to the formula with a three-mode continuously controlled damping system that works diligently to tame uneven road surfaces.

Real world fuel economy is rarely up to the suggested numbers.

Very few vehicles offer the interior space of Lincoln’s three-row MKT. Much like the Ford Flex with which the MKT shares a platform, the six- or seven-passenger crossover excels at offering plenty of room for just about everyone on board. Like the majority of three-row vehicles, the third-row occupants might feel like they have drawn the short straws, but the space is still reasonable.

• Cargo space is average with all the seats in place, but when used as a four- or five-passenger vehicle, the rear seats fold to provide plenty of room for cargo.
• Standard features include dual-zone climate control, remote start, heated and cooled twelve-way adjustable front seats, a fixed-panel panoramic sunroof, push-button start, Lincoln’s SYNC infotainment, and more.

Getting in and out of the third-row seats can be burdensome.

The 2016 Lincoln MKT provides an extremely quiet interior, even under full-throttle conditions.

It’s a little hard to get around the Lincoln MKT’s polarizing looks. I want to love it, but that grille just doesn’t work for me.

With plenty of power, excellent handling and a quiet comfortable ride, the 2016 Lincoln MKT is an excellent choice for families looking for a luxury mini-van alternative. Many of my recent experiences with the MKT have been in the second row—it turns out the MKT, which makes for an excellent limo, has essentially replaced Lincoln’s storied Town Car in airport shuttle fleets.

While the exterior styling may not be for everyone, the look certainly is unique and might just make the unique fashion statement you’re looking for.