New for 2016
The MKX is substantially updated for 2016, with a newly-available 2.7-liter EcoBoost® engine, new safety tech, available Revel Ultima Audio™ systems, and other changes.
Winning the Luxury Game
Luxury crossovers are hotter than ever, and for 2016, Ford’s luxury division has an updated entry for this very competitive segment. The 2016 Lincoln MKX plays the luxury game well with a sophisticated exterior, a new 2.7-liter turbocharged EcoBoost® V6, and upscale features like high-tech audio systems and bespoke trim from Lincoln’s Black Label program.
Performance
There are big changes on the outside of the 2016 Lincoln MKX, and they’re matched by changes under the hood.
The MKX is now available with the 2.7-liter turbocharged EcoBoost V6 that debuted in the Ford F-150 pickup truck, coupled to a six-speed automatic transmission. This engine makes 330 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque. And putting the “eco” in “EcoBoost®,” this powerful engine also returns an EPA-rated 21 mpg combined (17 mpg city, 26 mpg highway) with standard front-wheel drive,* and 19 mpg combined (17 mpg city, 24 mpg highway) with all-wheel drive.*
The standard engine on the MKX remains a 3.7-liter naturally-aspirated V6. Also paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, this engine produces 303 hp and 278 lb-ft of torque. It gets an EPA-rated 20 mpg combined (17 mpg city, 26 mpg highway) with front-wheel drive,* and 19 mpg combined (16 mpg city, 23 mpg highway) with all-wheel drive.*
In addition to standard electric power steering like the systems offered in many other cars, the 2016 MKX gains adaptive steering that can change the steering ratio depending on conditions. There’s also an Auto Hold feature that relieves the driver from having to repeatedly press the brake pedal to hold the vehicle still in traffic. In addition, the available Lincoln Drive Control system adjusts different vehicle parameters with three programmable modes: Normal, Sport, and Comfort.
Features
The 2016 Lincoln MKX is a five-door, five-seat midsize crossover. It’s offered in three trim levels and priced starting from $38,260.**
Lincoln is Ford’s luxury brand, so while the MKX may share a platform with the Ford Edge, it comes with significantly more standard equipment, which is also of a higher quality befitting the Lincoln’s more prestigious positioning.
The MKX Premier comes standard with HID headlights (with LED signature accents), LED taillights, dual chrome exhaust tips, Lincoln Luxury Soft Touch seating surfaces, a heated 10-way power driver’s seat, 60/40 split-folding rear bench, 18-inch aluminum wheels, media hub (two USB ports, auxiliary jack, SD card reader), SiriusXM® satellite radio, and Sync 3 infotainment system.
The MKX Select includes all of the applicable standard equipment from the Premier, and adds a power liftgate, power-folding exterior mirrors, Bridge of Weir leather seats, ambient lighting, and a power tilt/telescoping steering column.
The MKX Reserve builds further on the Select and Premier with additional standard features, including adaptive headlights, heated and cooled front seats, an embedded modem, navigation, panoramic vista roof, and 20-inch wheels.
Beyond that, optional features include 21-inch wheels, rain-sensing wipers, a heated steering wheel, Revel Ultima Audio™ sound systems with HD Radio™ technology, dual headrest DVD entertainment system, heated second-row outboard seats, adaptive LED headlights, and other features. In addition, Lincoln’s Black Label program allows for greater personalization with bespoke interior trim options.
Design
The 2016 Lincoln MKX applies the handsome design language of other recent Lincoln models to a midsize crossover framework. At the front is Lincoln’s signature “split-wing” grille, flanked by available full LED headlights with elements executed as blades, rather than the typical projectors.
The body itself features a broad-shouldered, hunkered-down stance, with interesting little details like a “power dome” on the rear spoiler that houses the radio antenna. Like the smaller MKC crossover, there are also full-width taillights that help contribute to the lower-and-wider look. The taillights also employ a filter that helps the lamp read as one piece, rather than discrete elements.
The interior is “both open and cocoon like,” Lincoln says. There’s an upscale feel from both the materials and the placement of controls, including a pushbutton gear selector and an open suspension bridge that connects the instrument panel to the center console. Standard Active Noise Control makes the cabin a serene place to be, while optional features include 22-way multi-contour front seats with Active Motion and a Revel Ultima Audio™ system, which Lincoln says are a first for a production car.
Safety
Standard safety equipment on the 2016 Lincoln MKX includes anti-lock brakes, AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control, a rearview camera, and a full complement of airbags. Optional features include a 360-degree camera system, Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection, inflatable rear outboard seatbelts, lane-keeping system, park assist, and blind-spot information system with cross-traffic alert.
Bottom Line
The 2016 Lincoln MKX has the sophistication of classic Lincolns, with the technology and poise of a modern luxury car.
For more information, or to schedule a test drive, contact us online or visit 3Birds Template at 505 W. Franklin St., Chapel Hill, NC 27516.
*EPA-estimated city/hwy mpg. See fueleconomy.gov for fuel economy of other engine/transmission combinations. Actual mileage will vary.
**Base MSRP and base plus package price exclude destination/delivery charge, taxes, title and registration. Optional equipment not included. A, Z and X Plan prices are for qualified customers and exclude document fee, destination/delivery charge taxes, title and registration. Not all vehicles qualify for A, Z or X Plan.
Image: Lincoln
