2010 Lincoln MKT
The all-new Lincoln MKT was not unexpected—it was shown as a concept last year in Detroit. The final production version is a bit different than the concept. The concept was more sedanlike, with a rear decklid that mimicked a trunk. The production MKT is a 7-passenger elongated crossover SUV with a rear hatch. Note the lack of a substantial bumper.
Although you wouldn’t know by looking at it, this Lincoln crossover shares its platform with the Ford Flex. The front-drive model is equipped with a 3.7- liter V-6 with 267 bhp. The EcoBoost engine option comes in the form of a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6 that makes 350 bhp and is paired with standard all-wheel drive. As buyers move away from full-size truck-based SUVs, the MKT makes a stylish and capable alternative. As a luxury model, the MKT is available with adaptive cruise control, active park assist, blind-spot monitoring and a panoramic glass roof. Standard is a 6-speed automatic that rev-matches on downshifts and can be controlled with steering wheel-mounted paddles or a conventional slap shifter. A unique feature is the MyKey system that is something like a valet key, but customizable. For example, a parent can limit the top speed of the vehicle, set a maximum volume loudness and program the low-fuel light to come on early, thus reminding the young driver to slow down, pay attention and not run out of gas. My father wishes he had this system when I was learning to drive.
