Lincoln's flagship sedan, the MKS, is a beautifully styled American-made machine that features a nicely appointed and cavernous cabin, loads of techno goodies and new-found power, thanks to an all-new available EcoBoost engine.
Last year's MKS was only offered with a 3.7 V-6 engine that produced 273 horsepower. While that might be enough power for some luxury sedan buyers, enthusiasts wanting more power had to shop other brands.
For 2010 Lincoln is offering the MKS EcoBoost model. This new trim level features a 355-horsepower, 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V-6 engine and standard all-wheel drive.
This is the same engine featured in the Ford Taurus SHO model. Thanks in part to its sophisticated direct fuel-injection system and twin turbochargers, the EcoBoost V-6 engine produces the power of a V-8 with the fuel economy of a V-6.
The 2010 MKS EcoBoost delivers 17/25 mpg city/highway. That's not bad for a large sedan that tips the scales at nearly 4,300 pounds. Plus, the MKS EcoBoost actually delivers 1 mpg city and 2 mpg highway better fuel economy than the MKS AWD model powered by the 3.7-liter naturally aspirated V-6 engine.
Oh yeah, while the EcoBoost engine benefits most from sipping on premium unleaded fuel, it has been designed to run on regular unleaded fuel, too.
All three 2010 MKS trim levels (FWD, AWD and EcoBoost) come standard with a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission that can be shifted manually.
The MKS EcoBoost model also features a standard AWD system that automatically sends the power to the wheels with grip.
Enthusiasts will surely like the MKS EcoBoost's steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, too. They let the driver take a more active role in controlling upshifts and downshifts.
My
2010 Lincoln MKS EcoBoost tester delivered impressive acceleration. It's significantly better than the naturally aspirated 3.7-liter V-6 and there's hardly any noticeable turbo lag.
Regardless of whether you're taking off from a dead stop or passing at highway speeds, the MKS EcoBoost feels forceful and refined.
Lincoln did a good job of keeping almost all of the engine and road noise out of the cabin, too. But I was disappointed with the slight amount of torque steer my MKS EcoBoost tester exhibited when the throttle was pushed quick and hard.
Steering and braking are good, but the big MKS isn't as agile or sporty as some of the other offerings it competes against.
The MKS does have a lot going for it, though. It features a large cabin that is very comfortable for cruising around town or across town. I could spend hours behind the wheel without needing a break.
Four adults or a family of five will have plenty of room to enjoy long road trips in the MKS. And the trunk is large enough to swallow up plenty of gear or luggage.
One of my favorite features is the standard SYNC voice-activated communications and entertainment system. It's easy to use and has many likable features.
I also enjoyed the optional 14-speaker THX II audio system, optional voice-activated navigation system and optional active park assist. The latter helps you park, even in uphill parking situations.
Adding goodies like these does bump the price up, but at least those who buy the MKS can choose from a long list of innovative options.
I liked my tester's keyless entry and push-button starting, but I would have preferred a simpler way to unlock all the doors without using the fob or without having to enter the code into the door-mounted keypad.
Still, Lincoln should be commended for designing and building such an attractive luxury sedan. The MKS looks good on the road and it would look great in your driveway. The feeling you get from behind the wheel is excellent.
2010 Lincoln MKS EcoBoostEngine: 355-horsepower 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V-6
Transmission: six-speed automatic
Drivetrain: all-wheel drive
Fuel economy: 17 city/25 highway
Base price: $47,460
As tested: $56,625 (including $825 for destination)
Web site: www.Lincoln.com