The dash now benefits from an aerodynamic as well as ergonomic shape. True brushed aluminum or wood appliqués spruce it up nicely. While aluminum combined with black and grey is a tad austere, it is classic. The MKS’s cabin can only be qualified as “spacious.” The incredible soundproofing limits decibels to their absolute minimum. The MKS even does one better than Lexus here, the benchmark in the field. Though the trunk is generously sized, access is limited by its small opening. It can accommodate lots of small things, but nothing really massive.
Out with the big V8, in with the big V6
In this transition period, Lincoln has retired another of its symbols, the good ol’ V8, supplanting it with a new 3.5-litre, EcoBoost V6. Though this recipe isn’t new, it is for Lincoln. Two turbochargers and direct injection technology give this engine the gusto needed to turn out good accelerations and ensure overall decent fuel efficiency, i.e. 11 litres per 100 km.
The significance of the V6 lies in its output and available torque, but also in its size, which ensures optimal positioning on the chassis and limits the engine’s weight, contributing to the great driving dynamics. We’re talking about some serious numbers here, i.e. 355 hp and 350 ft-lb of torque. The MKS is quick. The engine is always nice and smooth, while the 6-speed automatic transmission contributes to the decent fuel economy. They may sing the praises of the steering wheel paddle shifters, but don’t expect any miracles: the emphasis here is on comfort rather than athleticism.
The steering is precise, nice to handle and especially very user-friendly. The suspension is solid and the car laughs in the face of bumps and ruts. Handling is vivacious in corners, but intensive braking manoeuvres send the front end into a nosedive that results in a certain instability. When cornering, handling is good and the AWD is efficient at giving the desired grip.
Can it make the cut?
The MKS offers everything luxury and performance aficionados could ever ask for, at the reasonable price of $52,999. The only question buyers are likely to ask themselves is whether they should consider the Ford Taurus SHO, which closely resembles the MKS but sells for $4,800 less. You be the judge.
Out with the big V8, in with the big V6
In this transition period, Lincoln has retired another of its symbols, the good ol’ V8, supplanting it with a new 3.5-litre, EcoBoost V6. Though this recipe isn’t new, it is for Lincoln. Two turbochargers and direct injection technology give this engine the gusto needed to turn out good accelerations and ensure overall decent fuel efficiency, i.e. 11 litres per 100 km.
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| The MKS has a strong sense of identity with its utterly unique grille. (Photo: Lincoln) |
The significance of the V6 lies in its output and available torque, but also in its size, which ensures optimal positioning on the chassis and limits the engine’s weight, contributing to the great driving dynamics. We’re talking about some serious numbers here, i.e. 355 hp and 350 ft-lb of torque. The MKS is quick. The engine is always nice and smooth, while the 6-speed automatic transmission contributes to the decent fuel economy. They may sing the praises of the steering wheel paddle shifters, but don’t expect any miracles: the emphasis here is on comfort rather than athleticism.
The steering is precise, nice to handle and especially very user-friendly. The suspension is solid and the car laughs in the face of bumps and ruts. Handling is vivacious in corners, but intensive braking manoeuvres send the front end into a nosedive that results in a certain instability. When cornering, handling is good and the AWD is efficient at giving the desired grip.
Can it make the cut?
The MKS offers everything luxury and performance aficionados could ever ask for, at the reasonable price of $52,999. The only question buyers are likely to ask themselves is whether they should consider the Ford Taurus SHO, which closely resembles the MKS but sells for $4,800 less. You be the judge.
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