Used 2014 Lincoln MKX

The 2014 Lincoln MKX is a stylish and well-equipped midsize luxury crossover SUV. Based on the highly successful Ford Edge, the MKX distances itself with a more expressive front end, a luxurious interior and wealth of standard equipment. With newer and more distinct competitors surrounding the MKX, Lincoln will have to fight for every customer, especially those accustomed to performance-oriented models such as the Audi Q5, Volvo XC60 and Mercedes-Benz GLK. Those seeking room for more than five passengers will also be disappointed, as the MKX doesn’t offer a 3rd-row seat option. Powered by a potent V6 engine and offering the option of all-wheel drive (AWD), the MKX’s trump card is its easy to configure option packaging broken into just three distinct groups: Premium, Elite and Limited Edition.

Although we can’t say the 2014 Lincoln MKX stands out in any particular category, it also doesn’t fail in any of them, either. Acceleration, handling and ride comfort are all above average, but not quite best in class. When equipped with all-wheel drive, the MKX shuns the torque steer sometimes evident on the front-wheel-drive (FWD) models, and it lends an added measure of safety in winter. The MKX’s high seating position is appreciated, although we can’t say the same for the long dash that impedes forward visibility. The MKX is most happy at highway speeds where it cruises effortlessly, shutting out most wind and road noise as it zips along. The bigger wheel and tire options (20 and 22 inches) somewhat help improve handling, but also return a firm ride we don’t think is worth the trade off.

The 2014 Lincoln MKX has plush, leather-trimmed seating for five and generous standard features, such as heated and cooled front seats. All models come with the MyLincoln Touch interface, which replaces many conventional buttons with a multifunction touch screen. It’s modern but a little challenging to operate on the go. The system also uses voice recognition. Aluminum and optional wood trim help lend a luxurious feel to the cabin. In back, more than 32 cubic feet of cargo space lies behind the second-row seats, and that more than doubles with the seats folded.

The 2014 MKX carries the new face of Lincoln, that being an oversized and unmistakable split-wing grille. Though it has its detractors, we think it demonstrates power and prestige as it ties the MKX to other Lincolns in the current family. At 87.5 inches across, the Lincoln MKX is several inches wider than some competitors, which might be significant if you need to park in tight spaces or a cramped garage. Even entry-level, front-wheel-drive MKX models ride on 18-inch aluminum wheels, with massive 20- and even 22-inchers optional.

BLIND-SPOT MONITORING SYSTEM
Available with the Elite package option, Lincoln’s blind-spot monitoring system is an important safety feature that can help avoid collisions with traffic out of the driver’s line of site.

CLIMATE-CONTROLLED SEATS
Usually an expensive option on most luxury SUVs (if offered at all), the MKX comes standard with front seats that can keep you warm in the winter and cool in the summer.

Climate-controlled front seats (and leather upholstery all around) are among several standard MKX amenities that can be costly options in its competitors. Remote start allows one to turn on the vehicle before even entering it, and four 12-volt power outlets can keep electronic devices juiced. Other features in every 2014 Lincoln MKX include anti-theft alarm, universal garage door opener, auto-dimming rearview mirror, air filtration system, SiriusXM satellite radio (with 6-month subscription) and a media hub with two USB ports, audio/visual input jacks and an SD card reader.

Heated rear seats, navigation system, rearview camera, panoramic moonroof and a THX II-certified sound system with HD Radio are among the numerous extra features available on the 2014 MKX. Other add-ons of note include blind-spot monitoring, a heated steering wheel (highly appreciated in cold climates), rain-sensing wipers, adaptive HID headlights, and a safety system that alerts the driver to approaching cross traffic.

All versions of the 2014 MKX use a 3.7-liter V6 that makes 305 horsepower, second only in this class to the Cadillac SRX’s 308 horsepower. Despite that impressive power, the MKX’s EPA city/highway fuel-economy ratings are also among the class leaders at 18/26 for a front-drive example and 17/23 for an all-wheel-driver. The sole transmission offered is a 6-speed automatic that can be shifted manually with steering-wheel-mounted paddles.

3.7-liter V6
305 horsepower @ 6,500 rpm
280 lb-ft of torque @ 4,000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 18/26 mpg (FWD), 17/23 mpg (AWD)