2012 Lincoln MKT

The 2012 Lincoln MKT is a top ranked luxury midsize SUV, that features 3-row seating, refined interior, advanced technology and a sculpted exterior.

This SUV is offered in 2 trim levels: the MKT and the MKT with EcoBoost. The MKT shares its platform with the Ford Flex, and has a seating capacity for up to 7 people.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Luxury Wagon Base Price: $44,300.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.6 gallons (70 l) MPG: 17 city / 24 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 207.6 in. (527.3 cm) Wheel Base: 117.9 in. (299.4 cm)
Height: 67.4 in. (171.2 cm) Width: 79.9 in. (202.9 cm)
Curb Weight: 4871 lbs (2209 kg) Ground Clearance: NA
Max Cargo Capacity: 39.6 cu ft Maximum Seating: 7 people
Performance
Engine: 3.7L Duratec V6 DOHC Compression Ratio: 10.3: 1
Horsepower: 268 HP Max RPM: 6250 RPM
Torque: 267 lb-ft @ 4250 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
Max Towing Capacity: 4500* lbs (2041 kgs) Maximum Speed: NA

*Properly equipped

Available Trims & Engine
Option:MKT AWD EcoBoost MSRP: $46,295; MPG: 16 city / 23 hwy

Engine & Performance

The MKT uses a 3.7L V6 powertrain that makes 268 horsepower and 267-lbs-ft of torque. The powertrain is connected to a 6-speed automatic transmission, although you can opt for a manual shift that uses steering wheel-mounted shift paddles. This engine still manages 23 mpg in highways and 17 mpg in cities when paired with front wheel drive.

The EcoBoost trim is powered by a twin turbocharged 3.5L V6 engine that produces 355 hp and 350 lbs-ft. The engine is mounted on a standard 6-speed transmission paired with all-wheel drive system. With this, its fuel economy is estimated at about 16/21 mpg city/highway. The MKT EcoBoost goes from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.3 seconds. With a class III trailer pitch, the MKT gets a maximum towing capacity of 4,500 lbs.

Exterior

This SUV comes with a trendy exterior, that catches the eyes of customers. To start with, this car is available in 8 exterior color coats ranging from white to Tuxedo black. Some of the standard exterior features include: a huge glass panel roof, LED tail lamps, winged grille, chrome shoulder line, keypad entry, 19-inch aluminum wheels, and adaptive xenon high intensity-discharge headlights.

Interior

The interior of this SUV is offered in 6 or 7-passenger configuration, all with handsome styling and made of upscale materials including genuine wood trim and leather upholstery. The base trim comes fitted with several interior features such as: rearview camera, tri-zone automatic climate control, reverse sensors, leather trimmed seats, MyKey programmable system, heated and cooled front seats, Sync communication system and power tilt steering wheel.

The EcoBoost trim has additional interior features such as: refrigerated second-row console, THX sound system, and navigation system with Sirius satellite radio. Behind the third row seats is a 17.9 cubic ft cargo capacity, which can be increased to 39.6 cubic feet after folding the third row seats; and 75.9 cubic feet after folding the second and third rows.

Safety & Reliability

The MKT has safety features that help the driver avoid collisions, and ensure the occupants safety. The Collision Warning and brake support system alerts the driver on the vehicles ahead and gets the brakes ready. In fact, this system flashes a warning on the windshield whenever the sensors detect a slow moving vehicle ahead.

Other standard safety features are: rear packing sensors and a backup camera, blind spot monitor, child safety locks, side curtain airbags for all rows, side-impact airbags for the front seats, and electronic stability system with roll stability control.

Lincoln covers this SUV with a 4-year or 50,000 mile bumper to bumper warranty on top of a 6-year or 70,000 mile engine warranty. The engine warranty beats Audi’s 4-year or 50,000 mile warranty.

Pros

  • High-tech interior
  • Powerful and economical EcoBoost engine
  • Comfortable cabin
  • Generous standard features.
  • Balanced ride and handling

Cons

  • Tight third-row headroom
  • Polarizing exterior

In general, the 2012 Lincoln MKT is a pleasure to drive SUV that can benefit bigger families and even some business people. The suspension is well controlled, and bumps do not upset this car thereby, the rides are rather smooth and comfortable.

The Acura MDX (MSRP $43,030; 16 city / 21 hwy), Audi Q7 (MSRP $46,250; 16 city / 22 hwy), and the R Class of Mercedes Benz (MSRP $52,690; 16 city / 21 hwy) join the Lincoln MKT in this thinning market segment.

Overall Rating
72 out of 100

What others say:

“Stretch limousines don’t have much on the 2012 Lincoln MKT, and neither does the archaic old Lincoln Town Car. This is one big crossover, made for six or seven adults, lots of cargo, and potentially, thousands of miles of exceptionally comfortable cruising.”Car Connection

“MKT has direct, well-weighted steering. Body lean is well controlled for a large vehicle, although sheer size and weight keep it from being truly nimble. The brakes are strong and responsive.”Consumer Guide

“There’s no denying that the 2012 Lincoln MKT has an exterior shape that could be called polarizing at best but, once you look past its bulbous back and step inside this 3-row people hauler, it’s all about excellent accommodations that can seat up to seven in supreme comfort.”KBB

“Though its versatility is somewhat compromised, the 2012 Lincoln MKT is a solid alternative to other luxury crossover SUVs.”Edmunds

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