Lincoln MKT: Luxury Crossover Redefined

by Matthew C. Keegan

The crossover vehicle market continues to expand, thanks to just about every automaker getting into this hot segment. Loosely defined, a crossover is a sport/utility type vehicle built on a car platform, a hybridized multi-purpose vehicle that is lighter and much more fuel efficient than an SUV.

The Ford Motor Company has seen much success with its fleet of crossovers which include the Ford Edge and the Ford Flex. That latter model was introduced last summer, a boxy seven passenger wagon like vehicle like nothing else on the road.

With the MKT, Lincoln took the Flex platform and developed a vehicle unique to its needs with forward looking styling, luxurious appointments, a bustle back hump and an opulent interior. The MKT will not be available for sale until late summer 2009 as a 2010 model.

The three row MKT will offer a long list of creature comforts as the vehicle will be positioned to sell against similar luxury models including the Audi Q7. Among the key features of the MKT will be:

* SelectShift six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifts * Eight-inch, color touch-screen for audio and HVAC control * Rear view camera * 20-GB hard drive for music jukebox music storage * Intelligent Access with Push Button Start * SecuriCode™ Keyless Entry Keypad * Adaptive Headlamps with High-Intensity Discharge (HID) Lamps * Auto High Beams * Rain-Sensing Wipers * Reverse-sensing parking assist system * Power opening / closing rear liftgate * 12-way powered, heated-and-cooled front row seating * Adjustable pedals * Heated second-row seats * Three-zone HVAC * Ambient lighting * Panoramic Vista Roof featuring two large glass panels * 19-inch Premium Painted aluminum wheels * Integrated spotter mirrors * And a comprehensive, complementary list of active and passive safety features designed to help protect both driver and passengers.

Besides standard front wheel drive, an all wheel drive version will also be available. The standard engine will be a 3.7L V6 while its EcoBoost 3.5L V6 will be optional. That latter engine will employ state of the art turbocharger technology to help give the engine power equivalent to a V8 engine, while returning V6 fuel economy numbers.

Starting price for the MKT should come in around $44,995 for the standard model, but closer to $55,000 for the fully loaded EcoBoost powered model.

About the Author

Matthew C. Keegan is a freelance writer who resides in North Carolina. Matt is a contributing writer for Andy's Auto Sport an aftermarket supplier of quality parts including Mercury Mariner grill guards and Mitsubishi Eclipse camshafts.