The 2019 Lincoln MKT is a three-row luxury crossover that has returned for a new model year. Based off the ancient Ford Flex, the MKT still bears the controversial styling of Lincolns former corporate grille while the rest of Lincoln's lineup has been altered into something much more compelling. Still, for those in need of seven seats and luxurious trimmings, it can do the job.
What's New for 2019
The Lincoln MKT has several new standard features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, all-wheel drive, and a heated steering wheel. Additionally, the base engine is now the previously optional 365-horsepower, twin-turbocharged V6, while the former base 303-hp V6 engine is no longer available.
Choosing Your Lincoln MKT
The Lincoln MKT makes it simple when it comes to powertrain choices, with a single engine option for 2019. This engine is a powerful twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 that's good for 365 hp and 350 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent to all four wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. Fuel economy is pretty abysmal, with EPA ratings of 15 miles per gallon city, 21 mpg highway, and 17 combined. This is all the same running gear as the Ford Flex, and the two vehicles are built side by side on the same assembly line.
Additionally, all trims are equipped with an adaptive suspension to help smooth out the road, and Lincoln keeps it simple with limited options and trim levels.
Base MKT
The base trim starts at $50,495 (all prices include the $995 destination charge), and includes bona fide luxury features like Sync 3 infotainment connectivity with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, proximity entry, a panoramic sunroof, blind-spot monitoring, a premium audio system, and tri-zone automatic climate control. Front seats are heated and ventilated and can be adjusted 12 ways; they're also trimmed with perforatedBridgeofWeirpremium leather.
The base MKT model has only five extra-cost options available: five exterior paint colors that are $695 each, heated and cooled second row captains chairs ($995), a second-row refrigerator between the captain's chairs ($895), a Class III Trailer Tow Package ($595), and all-weather floor liners ($120).
Reserve
Starting at $53,495, the MKT Reserve adds flashier 20-inch wheels, the all-weather floor liners, and a Technology Package, which includes driver-assistance features like lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. Naturally, everything from the base model carries over to the Reserve trim, as well.
Options remain the same as the base trim, with the color choices, heated and cooled captains chairs, second row refrigerator, and Class III towing package all returning.
The 2019 Lincoln MKT may be an obvious choice for black car companies, but the Ford Flex is a much better value. It's basically the same vehicle, but it's much more affordable while having much more palatable styling. However, both of these vehicles are outdated, and it's strongly advised to look at newer competitors like the Buick Enclave.