Lincoln MKS: Quick Test

The 2009 Lincoln MKS defines the premium brand's design strategy for its next generation of luxury vehicles. With clean, uncluttered surfacing, a powerful beltline and an impressive front end highlighting some of the more prominent styling cues of Lincoln's new design language, the MKS is clearly bold and unmistakably American.

While it's disappointing that Lincoln shied away somewhat from the gorgeous and confident 2007 MKR concept car, the MKS is still a good looking, modern representation of the American luxury sedan.

We remember well the Barcalounger-on-wheels that was the American luxury car of the not-too-distant past: Plush seats, a pillowy ride, fuel-gulping V8 and steering that was more suggestive than direct.

The MKS improves upon all that was good about those land-yachts of yesteryear, while banishing the bad. It's huge inside - almost Town Car big - with Soprano's-worthy trunk space. Seats are comfortable and appropriately supportive centerpieces in an elegant, luxurious interior that features an attractive balance of leather, aluminum accents, wood inlays (in ebony or olive ash) and a seemingly endless sea of technology.

Large though not quite as heavy as its many-ton forebears, the MKS is velvety smooth at cruising speeds with composed handling at a modest pace.

Push it like you're late for your tee time and the Lincoln starts to sweat, "floating" more than others in its luxury class when hustled, with its over-eager stability control system quick to remind you you're in a luxury car that doesn't like to hurry.

The optional all-wheel-drive system goes a long way toward providing a sense of security when the going gets quick, with its added weight contributing to the MKS's solid feel.

While traditional American luxury always featured eight cylinders driving the rear wheels, the newest Lincoln makes do with two fewer cylinders driving either the front wheels or, as in our test car, all four wheels.

The 275 horsepower 3.7-liter V6 moves the MKS adequately at best. This is no sports car - and, to its credit, it doesn't pretend to be - but luxury cars in this price range need the luxury of effortless power - V8 power, if not actually a V8.

Acceleration, braking and handling, although not outstanding, are all in line with other cars in its class. Where the MKS stands out is in its unique position as the only car in its class that offers a mix of old-school American style and luxury with state-of-the-art technology. This, more than anything else, makes the 2009 Lincoln MKS not only class competitive, but quite compelling as well.

Watch the video
Read Part 1: Design
Read Part 2: Interior & User Experience
Read Part 3: Performance

Lincoln MKS AWD

Performance
- Acceleration: Adequate at best, but befitting its class - really should have a V8
- Handling: Brisk is as fast as you'll ever want to go - doesn't do the hustle
- Braking: Spongy pedal doesn't inspire confidence - you shouldn't be going fast enough to tax them

Design
- Exterior: Finally, a design direction worthy of Lincoln's heritage - show car that it's based on was more confident
- Interior: Perfectly designed and finished for the segment - nice materials and craftsmanship throughout

Utility
- Comfort: So comfy, you could fall asleep at the wheel... as some of its owners' driving habits will suggest
- Space: HUGE inside - almost Town Car big - Soprano's worthy trunk

Safety
- Dynamics: Softly sprung nature and lots of mass means that changes of direction are not encouraged
- Technology: Overly obstructive stability control system is probably a good thing given the car's weight and suspension set-up

Value
- Price: Base price a bit misleading - upper 40's more accurate, but also in line with competitors - tons of technology inside
- Mileage: Lots of weight and all-wheel drive drag motivated by a V6 means you'll be thankful for the large capacity fuel tank

Emotional Appeal
- Heart thumpin' factor: Distinctive American styling to be proud of, but the performance won't raise your blood pressure - Fun to spank: Don't even think about it

SPECIFICATIONS

Layout: Front engine / All-wheel drive
Engine: 3.7 liter, V6
Power (SAE): 275 hp @ 6250 rpm
Torque: 276 lb-ft @ 4250 rpm
Gearbox: 6-speed automatic
Curb Weight: 4310 lbs.
0-60 mph: 7.5 sec.
1/4 mile: 15.7 @ 90 mph
Top Speed: 137 mph (electronically limited)
Mileage: 16 city / 23 highway
Base Price: $39,590
Competitors: Acura RL, Lexus GS 350 AWD, Volvo S80 T6 AWD