2012 Lincoln MKX Review
The 2012 Lincoln MKX 5 passenger crossover SUV is offered in one very well-equipped trim offering standard features that include auto dimming interior/driver side exterior mirrors, keyless entry/ignition, MyKey system to allow owners to limit a vehicle’s top speed/radio volume, power lift-gate, leather upholstery, tilt/telescoping steering column, MyLincoln Touch/Sync electronics interface systems with Bluetooth/iPod interface and many more standard conveniences. The MKX is powered by a 3.7 liter V6 producing 305hp and 280lb-ft of torque and drivers can opt for FWD or AWD. Properly equipped, the MKX can tow up to 3,500 pounds.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Lincoln MKX is a strong contender in the luxury crossover SUV arena and this year it has shown noteworthy improvements in performance, along with the plentiful amount of standard luxury conveniences as well as optional features for those desiring even more comfort features.
What’s New For 2012:
2012 saw no significant changes in the Lincoln MKX.
What is the Predicted Reliability:
The Lincoln MKX showed much better improvement in areas such as its engine, transmission, drive system, electrical system, fuel system, suspension and brakes, as well as impressive crash test results,reliability. In a recent survey, however, 64% of current MKX owners responded that if they had it to do all over again they would definitely buy the MKX.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
The Lincoln MKX did well being awarded by IIHS as a 2012 Top Safety Pick. The MKX has recommended safety technology of Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Lane Departure Warning, as well as antilock disc brakes, front side airbags/side curtain airbags and the MyKey system that will allow an owner to limit the vehicle’s top speed and radio volume. The MKX can also be equipped with an optional blind-spot warning system.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+A large amount of standard features
+Comfortably ride with ample passenger room
+Innovative technology
Cons
-MyLincoln Touch interface isn’t very user friendly
-Occasionally the transmission is hesitant to downshift
-Braking distance is a bit long for its class
Head-To-Head Competition:
The Lincoln MKX has a starting price that’s slightly higher than the BMW X3, though is substantially higher than the VW Tiguan. The MKX will give you more power with its 305hp engine with 280lb-ft of torque compared to the VW at 200hp and 207lb-ft of torque and the BMW at 240hp and 221lb-ft of torque. The MKX can also tow heavier loads with a max towing capability of 3500lbs compared to the Tiguan at 2200lbs and the BMW coming in with 3000lbs. Fuel economy ratings are close across the board with the MKX offering 19MPG city/26mpg highway compared to the VW at 18/26MPG and the BMW with ratings of 19/25MPG. The MKX though has the larger gas tank and offers several standard features that are either optional or available only in other models of the BMW and VW.
What Others Are Saying:
"The quiet, classy styling of the cabin is a big contrast to the glitzy showmanship you’ll find inside some of its rivals, and fit and finish hits new heights for a product from Lincoln." – Motor Authority
"I had seen Lincoln’s mid-size sedan in photographs, but I wasn’t prepared for how elegant and composed it looks in person. BMW’s 5-series was an obvious inspiration for MKS’s design. That’s praise, not criticism, Lincoln." – Forbes
"The 2012 Lincoln MKX is one of the least expensive luxury midsize SUVs available, and few in its class can give it a run for its money." – US News
Read more about the 2012 Lincoln MKX at the Lincoln manufacturer web site.
