2010 Lincoln MKT - Review

By Marty Padgett

Marty Padgett

Editorial Director BIO

Marty Padgett is High Gear Media's Editorial Director, overseeing the words that skim across High Gear Media's portfolio of automotive destinations... More

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2010 Lincoln MKT

We'll go ahead and advise you to skip the base six-cylinder version and focus on the MKT with the 355-horsepower EcoBoost V-6. The stock 268-horsepower V-6 is just adequate for a big seven-seat crossover, and the extra 87 hp subtract just one mile per gallon of fuel economy and add only $4000 to the MKT's $46,990 base price. It delivers impressive thrust that is completely in keeping with the crossover's character--refined, as a Lincoln should be, with just a hint of noticeable engine noise. The heavy-duty six-speed automatic responds accordingly, always calling up the right gear at the right time-and paddle shifters will let you choose gears on command, though they seem a bit out of place in this barrel-chested crossover.

You can press the MKT into quick responses, but it's not at its best. In most driving it feels controlled and responsive, but a severe case of the twisties will demonstrate how a high curb weight (4800 pounds), a long wheelbase and all-wheel drive will confound even relatively quick electronic steering. The MKT starts to bound and bounce when it's pushed hard. Save it for the GT at home: the MKT excels at wide turns and delivering the creamy ride you'd presume from a Lincoln, while also giving responsive steering feel and controlled ride motions.

Besides, the  long-distance cruises without the drama give you and the five or six other passengers time to explore a dumbfounding list of features. Imagine yourself in a 1966 Continental Coupe, with FM radio and power windows standard. Teleport into the 2010 MKT and the standard list has blossomed to include a panoramic sunroof; dual-zone climate control; the Bluetooth-and-voice-controlled SYNC system; a keyless entry pad on the door frame; high-intensity discharge headlamps with automatic high beams; and push-button start with MyKey features that allow drivers to set preferences for speed controls, radio functions and seat/mirror memory positions. It's easy to push the pricetag of the MKT with EcoBoost to nearly $55,000 by adding power to the sunroof; 20-inch polished aluminum wheels; a rear-seat DVD entertainment system; active parking assist and adaptive cruise control; a navigation system with a music hard drive and THX II-certified speakers; and last but not least, a five-quart refrigerator mounted between the middle seats.

Secret service

The MKT excels at carrying six or seven people in adult comfort. The front seats show attention paid to the seats in Volvos; they're fantastic for long drives, with room in all directions (and a little contact with hard metallic trim at the knee). The front active headrests are improved over the Flex--where they tilt too far forward--but could use a degree or more of recline before we pronounce them perfect. The MKT adds telescoping steering to the Flex package, which improves driving position, along with power-adjustable foot pedals.

The second-row seats come in bench form for three passengers or bucket seats for two. Either way, they have copious foot and leg room--even more than the front seats. The third row is almost large enough for some adults, though mainly intended for children. Power "fold and tumble" second-row seats, with heating, cooling and power-assisted lumbar adjustment, are also available, and third-row passengers can fold second-row seats out of the way by pressing a button-a nice touch. As for carrying cargo, the MKT easily could double as a hearse: the space behind the third-row seat offers as much storage as the Acura RL's truck (17.3 cubic feet); fold down the second seat and the empty space grows to 39.6 cubic feet. With both rear rows folded, the MKT has a cavernous 75.9 cubic feet of room for hauling home estate-sale finds--or for making that final road trip.

The $46,990 2010 MKT shifts Lincoln further away from its dowdy styling past and delivers vast interior room, while it brings a good measure of driving pleasure and sophistication along for the ride. Our recommendation? Take them up on the $4000 EcoBoost option and plan on being the most called-on carpool in the county.

And turn down any offers you may get for checking off bucket lists, even if you have those second-row seats folded down.

Find out more on 2010 Lincoln MKT pricing, specifications, and find a dealer--and get the most comprehensive 2010 Lincoln MKT review online at TheCarConnection.