2016 Lincoln MKX
Ford Motor Company was largely responsible for the SUV craze that started some 25 years ago with the introduction of the Ford Explorer. Fast forward a quarter century and SUVs have evolved into a range of cross-overs that still provide a commanding view of the road and power to all four wheels, but the similarities to the truck-based “utes” of yore end there. Still, one in four luxury cars sold in Canada is an SUV, and the new 2016 Lincoln MKX shows just how far this breed of vehicle has come.
The MKX has taught, sleek lines and a commanding presence. Lower and longer than it’s predecessor, it creates the illusion of movement, even sitting still in the showroom. It is also a tour de force of new automotive technologies, offering every option you might expect from a luxury brand and more, including some features that aren’t available on other luxury marques such as Mercedes, BMW or Lexus.
It has first-to-market LED adaptive headlights, a built-in modem and a plethora of safety equipment such as adaptive cruise control, 360-degree cameras and a Blind Spot information system (BLIS), active park assist, a continuously controlled damping (CCD) called Lincoln Drive Control and a lane-keeping system.
The cabin is a beautiful place to spend commuting time, and is whisper quiet due to additional technological trickery, including an available 19-speaker Revel audio system that actually detects cabin noise and sends out noise-cancelling signals to provide a hushed environment.
The standard AWD drive-train provides all-weather traction with one of two available engines – Ford’s venerable 300 hp 3.7 litre V6 is carried over from the previous car, and Lincoln also offers an MKX-only thrifty and powerful EcoBoost turbo-charged mill that puts 335 horsepower and a whopping 380 ft-lbs of torque to the pavement. Both engines are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.
All in all this is an impressive car with a near perfect blend of luxury and utility. And as an additional bonus for those to like to shop locally, the world’s supply of MKXs is built close by in Oakville, Ontario.
