Lincoln MKX: Jalopnik's Buyer's Guide

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The Lincoln MKX is a very fancy Ford Edge meant to help redefine a struggling brand, and it looks promising. What do you need to know before you buy a Lincoln MKX? Don’t worry, we’ll tell you everything right here in our Buyer’s Guide.

Lincoln’s new 2016 MKX replaces an MKX that has really floundered when put up against its luxury CUV competitors. The old MKX looked weird, wasn’t great to drive and wasn’t as fancy as it should have been.

But the new model is switching it up. For one, it actually looks good. The application of Lincoln’s new design direction to this mid-size luxury CUV just works. We wouldn’t call it gorgeous, but we’d have no qualms calling it handsome.

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But there’s more, because Lincoln threw in tons of new gadgetry including a new SYNC infotainment system, an optional 360 degree camera, an optional 19-speaker Harman Revel audio system and loads of driver-assist technology.

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In addition to Lincoln’s carryover 303 horsepower 3.7-liter V6, 2016 also brings a turbocharged 2.7L V6 powertrain to the party.

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New engines, new tech, new styling? Yes, the new MKX is taking steps in the right direction.

What’s New About The 2016 Lincoln MKX

The MKX is all-new for 2016 and offers fresh new styling, a new 2.7-liter turbo V6, new gadgetry like a 360 degree camera, tons of new driver-assist features like Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection, a powerful new audio system and a clean new interior.

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Which One We’d Buy

The Lincoln MKX comes in two models: 3.7L V6 and 2.7L V6, both of which can be had in either front or all-wheel drive. All drivetrain configurations come standard with the Premier Equipment Group, but can be optioned with the Select Equipment Group or the Reserve Equipment Group.

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All MKXs come with electric power steering, a MacPherson front suspension design and an integral-link setup in the rear.

Standard features for all MKXs include: dual-zone automatic climate control, nine-speaker audio system with subwoofer, heated power leatherette front seats with lumbar, driver’s seat memory, Active Noise Control, SYNC with MyLincoln Touch infotainment system with 8-inch touchscreen, push-button shifter, HID automatic headlamps with LED signature lighting, dual exhaust with chrome tips, Reverse Sensing, heated power mirrors with memory, hill start assist, 18-inch alloy wheels, Torque Vectoring Control and a rearview camera.

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We haven’t driven the new MKX yet, but we think the 2.7L model looks promising. It’s got more power than the 3.7, it’s more efficient and it comes well equipped. All for about $41,185 with destination.

[Build Your Own Lincoln MKX]

Important Facts At A Glance:

MSRP: $38,260-$42,755 Top Speed: ~130 MPH (estimated)

Acceleration: ~6.5s to 60 (2.7L, estimated)

MPG: 17 city/ 26 hwy / 21 combined [2.7L, FWD]

Engines: 2.7L turbo V6, 3.7L V6

Max Horsepower/Torque: 335 hp/380 lb-ft [2.7L EcoBoost]

Max Advertised Towing Capacity: 3,500 lbs

Curb Weight: 4,168-4,447 pounds IIHS Rating: Not Fully Tested (‘15MY)

Transmissions: 6-speed automatic

Drivetrain Layout: Front engine, FWD/AWD

Photo credit: Lincoln

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