Experience the Elegance and Power of the Lincoln MKS: A Luxurious Full-Size Sedan

The Lincoln MKS is a luxurious full-size sedan renowned for its blend of comfort, power, and advanced safety features. As a flagship model of Lincoln, it offers versatile trims, sophisticated design, and remarkable performance, making it an ideal choice for discerning drivers seeking elegance and reliability. This in-depth review explores its features, powertrain options, safety systems, and customization packages, highlighting why the Lincoln MKS remains a standout in the luxury sedan market.

Experience the Elegance and Power of the Lincoln MKS: A Luxurious Full-Size Sedan

The Lincoln MKS is a distinguished full-size luxury sedan that seamlessly blends refined comfort with dynamic performance. Designed for drivers who value sophistication and high-quality driving experiences, the MKS offers a spacious interior, advanced technology, and elegant styling that make it stand out in the premium sedan market. Sharing a platform with the Ford Taurus, this vehicle boasts a powerful presence on the road, with ample rear seating for three passengers and a generous trunk space ideal for luggage and daily errands. Whether cruising on the highway or navigating city streets, the Lincoln MKS ensures a smooth, luxurious ride that meets the expectations of discerning automotive enthusiasts.

Historical Background of Lincoln Established in 1917 by Henry Leland, Lincoln has established itself as an icon of American luxury and craftsmanship. The brand has a rich heritage of delivering vehicles that prioritize elegance, comfort, and innovative features. Over decades, Lincoln has consistently set the standard for luxury sedans, SUV's, and premium vehicles, earning a loyal global following. The MKS, introduced in 2009, exemplified Lincoln’s commitment to combining traditional luxury elements with modern technology and performance, solidifying its reputation among elite drivers and automotive critics alike.

The Lincoln MKS was launched in 2009 as a flagship luxury sedan, offering exceptional power and comfort options. The model initially featured a 3.7-liter V-6 engine delivering 304 horsepower, paired with front-wheel drive by default, ensuring a smooth and responsive driving experience. For customers seeking more power and all-weather capability, Lincoln provided an option for a turbocharged EcoBoost V-6, which generates up to 365 horsepower and comes with all-wheel drive. With two distinct trims—the standard and EcoBoost—the MKS was versatile enough to satisfy a broad spectrum of luxury car buyers, from those prioritizing efficiency to enthusiasts seeking exhilarating performance.

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Variant

The AWD version of the Lincoln MKS elevates the driving experience with enhanced handling, especially in diverse weather conditions. Inside, drivers and passengers are greeted with an intuitive, bright dashboard display featuring modern technology and easy-to-navigate controls. The vehicle’s interior is accentuated with chrome accents and luxurious leather upholstery, creating an environment that exudes elegance and comfort. The AWD model sports a 3.7-liter V-6 Duratec engine, mated to a robust six-speed automatic transmission capable of producing 275 horsepower, delivering sufficient power for daily driving and highway cruising. Accelerating from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 7.5 seconds—a commendable figure for a full-size luxury sedan.

The wheel options include standard 18-inch tires, with the option for upgrading to larger 20-inch alloy wheels, enhancing both aesthetics and handling performance. Inside the cabin, plush leather seats with heating options are standard for both the front and rear, offering a cozy and comfortable ride regardless of climate. The trunk space measures 19 cubic feet, providing ample room for luggage or groceries, making the MKS a practical luxury vehicle for travel and daily use.

EcoBoost Version and Powertrain Details

The EcoBoost variant of the Lincoln MKS represents the pinnacle of power and efficiency. It is equipped with a twin-turbocharged V-6 engine featuring direct fuel injection technology, producing an impressive 355 horsepower at 5700 rpm and torque of 350 lb-ft at just 1500 rpm. This engine setup allows for swift acceleration and robust performance, whether merging onto highways or overtaking slower vehicles on the road.

The EcoBoost model is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission that includes manual shift capabilities, giving drivers more control over their driving dynamics. Fuel economy figures are quite respectable for a vehicle of this size, with EPA estimates indicating around 17 miles per gallon (mpg) in city driving and up to 25 mpg on the highway, making it suitable for long-distance travel without excessive fuel costs. This balance of power and efficiency makes the EcoBoost Lincoln MKS a compelling choice for those who refuse to compromise between luxury and performance.

Safety and Security Features

Safety has always been a priority for Lincoln, and the MKS is no exception. The vehicle has received high safety ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), thanks to its comprehensive safety features. These include front and rear parking sensors that assist in precision parking, child safety locks to secure young passengers, and tire pressure monitoring systems to prevent blowouts. The inclusion of side impact beams bolsters passenger protection in the event of a collision, while occupancy sensors activate airbags to mitigate injury risks. Advanced safety systems contribute to the peace of mind of drivers and passengers alike, ensuring that safety is integrated into the overall driving experience.

Design, Exterior, and Interior Features

The exterior design of the Lincoln MKS exemplifies sophistication and luxury. It features chrome door handles that add a touch of brilliance, automatic high-beam headlights that adapt to lighting conditions, and LED brake lights for enhanced visibility. The vehicle is available in a variety of colors, such as Ruby Red Metallic, Emerald Green Metallic, and others, catering to personal aesthetic preferences. Aerodynamic lines and a sleek silhouette make the MKS visually compelling, emphasizing its premium status.

The interior is equally impressive, with full carpeting, rear cupholders, and seatback storage compartments designed for comfort and convenience. Premium interior touches include wood trim accents, soft-touch surfaces, and ambient lighting that create a cozy yet luxurious ambiance. The seating configuration emphasizes comfort, with options for heated and ventilated seats, and the inclusion of massage functions in higher trims. Technological enhancements include a premium navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity, and an advanced audio system that offers crystal-clear sound quality for an elevated entertainment experience.

Available Packages and Customization Options

Recognizing the diverse preferences of luxury car buyers, Lincoln offers a range of packages to personalize the MKS. The Cold Weather Package, for instance, adds heated seats and a heated steering wheel—ideal for colder climates. The Elite Package offers power-adjustable pedals, massage seats, and an enhanced climate control system—all aimed at elevating comfort and convenience.

For technology enthusiasts, the Technology Package provides lane departure warning systems, collision alerts, and parking assistance features. All models come equipped with standard Bluetooth and premium audio options, but optional upgrades allow for even more advanced multimedia and safety features, enabling drivers to tailor their vehicles to their specific needs and lifestyles.

Pricing, Warranty, and Future Outlook

The Lincoln MKS is offered at a competitive price point considering its luxury features, with base models starting at a price that reflects its premium quality. The vehicle comes with comprehensive warranties, including a 4-year or 50,000-mile basic warranty, a 6-year or 70,000-mile powertrain warranty, and a 5-year corrosion warranty, ensuring long-term peace of mind for owners. Although Lincoln shifted focus toward the Lincoln Continental concept in 2016, the MKS remains a symbol of luxury, safety, and refined performance for those seeking a full-size sedan that combines tradition with innovation. Prospective buyers are encouraged to visit local dealerships for test drives and firsthand experiences of this elegant vehicle.