Plenty of driving aids
The MKT offers numerous driving assistance devices that facilitate the use of the vehicle and thus mitigate the size handicap. Lincoln has endowed the MKT with the BLIS system, which alerts drivers to the presence of objects in their blind spots and works together with the Cross Traffic Alert system when reversing or parking. Adaptive Cruise Control, a reverse camera, Microsoft's SYNC system, keyless entry and, among others, the new MyKey parental control system are all available.
The MKT also features rain-sensing automatic windshield wipers. The HID head lamps adapt to different conditions, maximizing the illumination of the driver's field of vision.
Two engines, two drive trains
Lincoln is setting aside its tradition of burly V8 engines and turning to two less thirsty V6 mills. Powering the entry-level model is the 3.7-litre Duratec V6 kicking out 268 hp and producing 267 ft-lb of torque at 4,250 rpm. This engine is known for its minimal intrusive noise level. It's calibrated for hefty acceleration and flexible power.
The other engine, the new 3.5-litre, twin-turbo EcoBoost V6, delivers 355 ponies and 350 ft-lb of torque at 3,500 rpm. This one promises performance equal to or better than that of a V8 engine, without the gas-guzzling tendencies. Although it prefers to sip 91 octane fuel, it was originally designed for 87 octane fuels.
Both versions are equipped with the same automatic, six-speed SelectShift transmission featuring a manual mode with paddles on the steering wheel. Both engines can be coupled with an all-wheel drive system, optional with the 3.7-litre mill and standard with the 3.5-litre one. Both versions are shod with 20-inch wheels, which differ depending on the choice of engine.
Conclusion
Lincoln is introducing an interesting alternative to the SUV. However, the climate behind its market launch is uncertain. Although Ford is in relatively good financial health, the market is losing its appetite for large cars. And we can add to that the public's tepid interest in this type of body configuration, as demonstrated by the lack of commercial success of the two other cars sharing this style, the Cadillac SRX and the Mercedes-Benz R Class. Time will tell if Lincoln has chosen the right moment and will succeed where others have failed.
photo:Lincoln
The MKT offers numerous driving assistance devices that facilitate the use of the vehicle and thus mitigate the size handicap. Lincoln has endowed the MKT with the BLIS system, which alerts drivers to the presence of objects in their blind spots and works together with the Cross Traffic Alert system when reversing or parking. Adaptive Cruise Control, a reverse camera, Microsoft's SYNC system, keyless entry and, among others, the new MyKey parental control system are all available.
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| Lincoln has endowed the MKT with the BLIS system, which alerts drivers to the presence of objects in their blind spots. |
The MKT also features rain-sensing automatic windshield wipers. The HID head lamps adapt to different conditions, maximizing the illumination of the driver's field of vision.
Two engines, two drive trains
Lincoln is setting aside its tradition of burly V8 engines and turning to two less thirsty V6 mills. Powering the entry-level model is the 3.7-litre Duratec V6 kicking out 268 hp and producing 267 ft-lb of torque at 4,250 rpm. This engine is known for its minimal intrusive noise level. It's calibrated for hefty acceleration and flexible power.
The other engine, the new 3.5-litre, twin-turbo EcoBoost V6, delivers 355 ponies and 350 ft-lb of torque at 3,500 rpm. This one promises performance equal to or better than that of a V8 engine, without the gas-guzzling tendencies. Although it prefers to sip 91 octane fuel, it was originally designed for 87 octane fuels.
Both versions are equipped with the same automatic, six-speed SelectShift transmission featuring a manual mode with paddles on the steering wheel. Both engines can be coupled with an all-wheel drive system, optional with the 3.7-litre mill and standard with the 3.5-litre one. Both versions are shod with 20-inch wheels, which differ depending on the choice of engine.
Conclusion
Lincoln is introducing an interesting alternative to the SUV. However, the climate behind its market launch is uncertain. Although Ford is in relatively good financial health, the market is losing its appetite for large cars. And we can add to that the public's tepid interest in this type of body configuration, as demonstrated by the lack of commercial success of the two other cars sharing this style, the Cadillac SRX and the Mercedes-Benz R Class. Time will tell if Lincoln has chosen the right moment and will succeed where others have failed.
photo:Lincoln
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