The full-size MKS luxury sedan is Lincoln's replacement for the now-discontinued Town Car. Though based on the Ford Taurus, the MKZ justifies its higher pricetag with unique styling, a more upscale interior and additional technology features.
Since its introduction the MKS has already seen an update that added Ford's highly-touted 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine to the option sheet, among other changes. The EcoBoost engine gave the MKS 355 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque, a sizable bump from the stock and naturally aspirated 3.7-liter V6 that provided 82 fewer horsepower.
Now, Lincoln has updated the MKS again, this time improving upon the base 3.7-liter V6, increasing power from 274 to 300, upping fuel economy by 3 miles per gallon highway to 19 city, 28 highway. All-wheel drive can also be specified with the 300 horsepower V6 as well.
The EcoBoost drivetrain includes all-wheel drive, and obtains 17 city, 25 highway mpg.
Lincoln didn't stop at simply adding power to update the driving dynamics of the MKS, as it also modified the steering ratio to match that of the MKT, switching from a 17.1:1 ratio to a 15:1 ratio, providing faster response. This was made possible through gearing changes and the switch from hydraulic to electronic steering assist.
Another key change arrived in the form of added standard stopping power, increasing the rotors to 13.86 inches in the front and 13.58 inches in the rear.
Packed with technology
Being a luxury sedan means it better come to battle with plenty of technology-based gadgets and gizmos, such as auto high-beam headlamps that use a windshield-mounted camera to monitor oncoming cars and automatically active and deactivate the highbeams. Drivers can adjust sensitivity from “Near” to “Far.”
The MKS also features the latest, fastest version of the MyLincoln Touch infotainment system, as well as Adaptive Cruise Control, Collision Warning, Blind Spot Information System, MyKey, Lane Keeping System (combination of Lane Keeping Aid and Lane Keeping Alert), HD Radio and Sync with Traffic, Directions and information.
Standard audio comes from an 10-speaker, 210-watt system, while optional equipment includes an audiophile-approved, THX II certified system with 700 watts and 16 speakers (both systems feature two more speakers than the MKT).
Comfort counts
While surrounding the occupants with technology and updated looks were a good start, Lincoln decided it also wanted to up the comfort quotient with 12-way adjustable front seats, coated in high-end Bridge of Weir leather imported from Scotland. The driver gets to enjoy adjustable pedals and a power tilt/telescoping heated steering wheel.
New woods (Prussian Burl and Brown Swirl Walnut) and leather colors (Hazelnut and Light Dune) complete the extensive list of interior revisions for the refreshed sedan. While there is a consistency to the woods selected for the interior of the MKS, no two Lincoln interiors featuring natural woods display the exact same grain pattern.
Key Competitors
The MKS competes against other large near-luxury sedans like the Chrysler 300, Buick LaCrosse, Acura RL and the upcoming Cadillac XTS.