THE 2016 Lincoln MKX is an all-new, second-generation model. The MKX comes very well-equipped with convenience and luxury items. Under the hood, a newly optional turbocharged 2.7-liter V6 engine boasts 335 horsepower and respectable fuel economy, while the available adaptive suspension delivers a smooth ride in its default mode and can be firmed up for more driver control.
The 2016 Lincoln MKX is a five-passenger crossover SUV. There are four trim levels (Lincoln calls them Groups): Premiere, Select, Reserve and Black Label.
Standard equipment for the 2016 Lincoln MKX in base Premiere trim includes 18-inch alloy wheels, adaptive suspension dampers (AWD models only), automatic xenon headlights, LED taillights, keyless ignition and entry, remote engine start, rear parking sensors, rear privacy glass, heated side mirrors, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, dual-zone automatic climate control, leatherette upholstery, active noise cancellation, heated eight-way power front seats (with power lumbar support), driver memory functions, a leather-wrapped tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and a reclining, 60/40-split second-row seat with power-folding seatbacks.
Standard technology features include voice controls (Sync), Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, a rearview camera, a configurable instrument cluster, a central 8-inch display with a touchscreen interface (either the MyLincoln Touch infotainment or the newer Sync 3 system, with availability depending on when the MKX was built) and a 10-speaker audio system with a CD player, satellite radio, an auxiliary input and two USB ports.
The Select Group adds LED daytime running lights, power-folding side mirrors (the driver-side mirror gets an auto-dimming feature), a hands-free power liftgate, leather upholstery, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and wood trim. The optional Select Plus package adds a navigation system and blind-spot and rear cross-traffic warning systems.
The Reserve Group adds 20-inch wheels, adaptive headlights, ventilated front seats, mobile-app compatibility, a panoramic sunroof and the contents of the Select Plus package.
Finally, the Black Label variant builds upon the Reserve’s features with unique 20-inch wheels, LED headlights, a simulated suede headliner, upgraded leather upholstery and a Revel Ultima 19-speaker surround-sound audio system with HD radio. Each Black Label MKC gets a choice of four different design themes (Indulgence, Modern Heritage, Muse and Thoroughbred), each of which alters the trim and the color of the upholstery, headliner and carpeting. It also grants access to Lincoln’s Black Reserve program.
A variety of options packages are available for the 2016 Lincoln MKX. The Cargo Utility package can be ordered with any equipment group, and includes a scuff plate, cargo net and tie-downs, plastic storage bins, a 110-volt outlet and a cargo cover. The Climate package adds heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, automatic windshield wipers and automatic high beams. The Reserve and Black Label versions get several unique packages, including Technology (front parking sensors, 360-degree camera system and automated parallel parking), Driver Assistance (adaptive cruise control plus additional features detailed in the Safety section, below) and Luxury (adaptive LED headlights and the Revel Ultima audio system).
Stand-alone options include 21-inch wheels, adaptive steering, 22-way-adjustable front seats, a trailer tow package, a 13-speaker Revel audio system (Select and Reserve), inflatable rear seatbelts and a rear-seat entertainment system with dual displays.
The base engine in the 2016 Lincoln MKX is a 3.7-liter V6 that generates 303 hp and 278 pound-feet of torque. A new turbocharged 2.7-liter V6 is also available; it produces a healthier 335 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission handles the shifting duties. Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive offered as an option. Properly equipped, the MKX can tow up to 3,500 pounds.
An MKX Black Label with the 2.7-liter engine and AWD accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds, an average time for a midsize luxury crossover. — SG
