2007 Lincoln MKX AWD Road Test

Poor road conditions were common during my week behind the wheel of the MKX.

Acceleration is impressive, and the transmission shifts smoothly while the throttle adjusts for clean, sharp changes. One of it's six ratios is always available at a moments notice, though unfortunately there is no manual mode. Additionally, the gear shift lever needs to be re-set into its position from time to time as the detents can be a little vague.

It's tough to make an assessment of a vehicles fuel mileage when driving in extreme cold weather (-30 degrees wasn't uncommon), especially when the said vehicle isn't broken in. The MKX averaged around 17L / 100km- certainly thirsty though one mustn't forget that wintertime has negative effects on fuel consumption. Highway mileage could not be calculated, as each highway drive saw heavy snowfalls- with the speed up and down and the cruise control best left off.

But the all wheel drive system takes snow-covered, icy and slush-rutted roadways, chews them up and spits them out. It's clever and well tuned, directing power around imperceptibly beneath the floor, leaving drivers to only point the wheel and squeeze the throttle. It hangs onto even the slightest bit of traction in any situation, and when there is none, it biases towards a rear-wheel drive proportion- great for the young at heart on empty roadways.

The MKX never lacks traction.

The suspension helps here too- as it's well-sprung, communicative and very car like. Body roll is kept in check, and the whole package has the ride of a sports sedan despite its tall stance. Riding on 18" wheels is never the smoothest way to go, and there's no exception here. If you're looking for an air-cushioned ride, this certainly isn't it. But if you like feedback and responsiveness, you'll like the MKX.

The brakes, though powerful, seemed inconsistent and lacked feel or precision at the pedal.

The Experience
Regular maintenance, courtesy transportation and other associated ownership privileges are included in the price of any Lincoln- meaning worry-free operation. But it's not just the ownership experience that's worry-free. The overall effect of the powerful engine, all wheel drive system, traction, stability and safety systems is one of point-and-go operation no matter what the weather presents. Snow? What snow! Let the technology and computers sort out the road while you sit back and enjoy the ride, safely of course.

A true convenient and opulent ride.

When the weather poses no threat, the MKX experience is very similar to that of dining out in a fine restaurant. The quality, presentation and attention to detail are undeniable. Convenience and service are an integral part of the package, and the ambiance and luxury which comprise the interior are on par as well. The stereo fires up sound like a live performance, and opening the panoramic roof might just remind you of spending some time on a rooftop patio.

MKX owners could take this all in any time they like- no reservations required. Sounds delicious to me.


-fantastic stereo system
-great engine and transmission combination
-capability in any weather
-price
-feels tight, solid and well made


-Where are the HID headlights?



-Mushy and disconnected brake feel
-Power steering has trouble keeping up during emergency maneuvers.


For more details concerning this vehicle, please refer to the technical specifications and to the standard features list.

If you wish to test-drive or receive a price quotation for this vehicle, you only have to perform a retailer / dealer search in your region.
photo:Justin Pritchard