Lincoln MKX

Overview: Is the Lincoln MKX a Good Luxury SUV?

The Lincoln MKX is a midsize luxury SUV sold in the United States from 2007 to 2018. The first-generation MKX (2007-2015) was essentially a rebadged Ford Edge with a nicer interior. Lincoln gave the second generation (2016-2018) more distinctive styling. The MKX occupies a sweet spot for many SUV buyers. It offers more spacious two-row seating than a compact crossover, but the MKX isn’t as massive as larger three-row utilities. With its smooth ride and available all-wheel drive, the MKX is popular among buyers seeking a balance of comfort, practicality, and luxury. Starting with the 2019 model year, the MKX was renamed the Lincoln Nautilus as part of the brand's move away from alphanumeric names.

Lincoln cars are things of the past, as Lincoln dealerships only sell SUVs now. Passenger cars such as the MKC and MKZ used the same naming approach as the Lincoln MKX. Current Lincoln SUV models include the Corsair, Nautilus, Aviator, and Navigator.

Note: Equipment, features, and trims can vary by model year. Always confirm these details when looking for used Lincoln MKX cars for sale.

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Related: The Lincoln MKX Years To Avoid

Key Features

The Lincoln MKX offers:

• Five-door midsize luxury SUV body style
• Two-row, five-passenger seating
• Front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD)
• V6 engine options
• Automatic transmission

Trims

The first-generation Lincoln MKX was available in a single, well-equipped trim, with optional packages adding features like navigation and a THX II Certified Audio System. The second-generation MKX offered four trims: Premiere, Select, Reserve, and Black Label. Higher trims added features such as a hands-free power liftgate, adaptive suspension, and a 19-speaker Revel Ultima audio system.

Comfort, Technology & Cargo

The Lincoln MKX's interior is designed with comfort and luxury in mind. The front seats are spacious and supportive, with available heating and ventilation for added comfort. The rear seats offer ample room for adult passengers and can recline for added relaxation. The MKX comes standard with features like dual-zone automatic climate control, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and a SYNC infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity and the MyLincolnapp. Higher trims and optional packages add features like a panoramic sunroof, a navigation system, and a rear-seat entertainment system. The second-generation MKX provides a generous 37.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, which expands to 68.8 cubic feet with the seats folded down.

How It Drives

The Lincoln MKX is more about comfort and refinement than sporty performance. The first-generation MKX is powered by a 3.5-liter Duratec V6 engine making 265 horsepower (a 365-horsepower 3.7-liter Duratec V6 was the standard powerplant for 2011-2015), while the second-generation model offered a choice of a 3.7-liter V6 with 303 horsepower or a 2.7-liter twin-turbo V6 with 335 horsepower. Both engines are paired with a 6-speed or 8-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and effortless acceleration. The MKX's suspension is tuned for a comfortable ride, absorbing road imperfections and providing a relaxed driving experience. Available all-wheel drive provides extra confidence in winter conditions.

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the first-generation Lincoln MKX a 4-star (out of 5) overall safety rating. The second-generation MKX improved to a 5-star overall safety rating.

Reviews

Owner reviews on Kelley Blue Book average 4.6-4.7 out of 5 for the Lincoln MKX, with consumers praising this Lincoln SUV’s comfort, styling, reliability, and quality.

Learn More: Are Lincolns Reliable? A Complete Breakdown

FAQs

Is the Lincoln MKX discontinued?

Yes, the Lincoln MKX was discontinued after the 2018 model year. However, it was not removed from the lineup entirely; instead, it was renamed the Lincoln Nautilus for the 2019 model year and beyond.

Is the Lincoln Nautilus the old MKX?

Yes, the Lincoln Nautilus is basically an updated and renamed version of the second-generation Lincoln MKX. The change from MKX to Nautilus occurred for the 2019 model year as part of Lincoln's shift from alphanumeric names to more traditional model designations (like the Lincoln Nautilus and the Lincoln Aviator). The MKX is adapted from the Lincoln Mark series of the past.

Is the Lincoln MKX all-wheel drive?

The Lincoln MKX has front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. AWD was an optional feature that could be added to any trim, providing enhanced traction and stability in slippery driving conditions.

Is a Lincoln MKX a luxury car?

Yes, the Lincoln MKX is considered a luxury vehicle. As a midsize SUV produced by Lincoln, Ford's luxury division, the MKX was designed and equipped to compete with other luxury SUVs, offering premium features, refined performance, and a comfortable and well-appointed interior.

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