2018 Lincoln MKT

Unless you really need the extra juice the twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 provides, then the base Premiere trim should suffice. This trim’s 3.7-liter V6 delivers adequate power at 303 horsepower, while its standard 19-inch wheels, leather upholstery, HID headlights, heated and cooled seats, remote start, and power liftgate add some value to its $44,455 base price.

• Model: 2018 Lincoln MKT Premiere
• Engine: 3.7-liter V6
• Output: 303 hp / 279 lb-ft
• Transmission: Six-speed automatic
• Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
• Fuel Economy: 16 City / 24 Hwy
• Options: N/A
• Base Price: $44,455 (including a $925 destination charge)
• Best Value Price: $44,455

The MKT may not look the part of an athlete, but its twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 turns this behemoth into something of a sprinter. It’ll never outgun some of the best athletes in its class, but it punches well above its weight. Sticking with the base 3.7-liter engine is far from a penalty too, as its 303 hp go to good use moving this long crossover.

Comfort is spot on in this people-hauler, as its long wheelbase and cushy chassis do a great job absorbing New York-size potholes. Plus, the sound deadening does a great job only letting a small percentage of engine noise into the cabin.

Combining a big V6 with a large, heavy crossover never bodes well at the pump, and the 2018 MKT is no exception. The base engine swallows fuel at a rate of 16 miles per gallon city, 24 highway, and 19 combined. The turbocharged V6 is even thirstier at 15 mpg city, 21 highway, and 17 combined.

Inside, the Lincoln MKT feels well-sorted, as its proportions are good, and the dash is simply laid out. Standard leather upholstery and wood trim make it feel luxurious, while its soft ride and lack of engine noise keeps things peaceful.

Where the MKT really excels, though, is hauling cargo and people. It can swallow up to 76 cubic feet of cargo with the second- and third-row seats folded, 39.6 cubes with just the third row folded, and 17.9 cubes with all the seats upright. The second-row passengers have plenty of room to stretch out thanks to the MKT’s 41.8 inches of leg room. The third row is tighter at just 33 inches of leg room, but it’s still okay for shorter trips.

Unfortunately, the 2018 Lincoln MKT’s body is the antithesis of style. Its nose is disproportionately long, and its big ridge heading down the hood does it no favors. Around back, Lincoln’s signature taillights are massive and look as if they’re ripped straight from the 1970s.

The Interior isn’t free from flaws either, as its captive-touch buttons are a major distraction when trying to do something as simple as adjusting the climate control.

The 2018 Lincoln MKT’s composed ride and comfortable cabin are perfect for long-haul trips. Plus, no matter the powertrain flavor you choose, it performs decently for its class.

You’ll also get plenty of stares at stop lights. Sadly, they won’t be stares of envy. These stares will be people trying to figure out what in the world that “thing” is you’re driving.

The Lincoln MKT is perfect for the avid traveler who has a few kiddos in tow. Its first- and second-row seats are very comfortable and plenty roomy for the long haul. Plus, there's lots of room for luggage.

However, those looking for a stylish luxury crossover will be disappointed by this recast Ford Flex. Its big, disproportionate, and not quite luxurious enough to compete with German metal.

It may not be pretty, but the MKT does a few things very well – namely, haul people and cargo comfortably. If this is your main concern, the 2018 Lincoln MKT is the perfect rig for you. Otherwise, there are plenty of other three-row luxury crossovers to choose from.