2011 Lincoln MKX

The price of a fully loaded 2011 Lincoln MKX is a bit of a shocker at $ 51,000.00.  In fact, the price can be considered quite steep for any crossover.  However, the 2011 Lincoln MKX seeks to justify its price by combining the balance of style, comfort, technology and drivability.

At a base price of $ 39,995.00, the 2011 Lincoln MKX is provided with standard equipment that includes the 3.7L V6 engine, 6-speed automatic transmission, 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS, tire pressure monitoring system, fog lamps, heated power mirrors, power liftgate, 10-way heated/cooled front seats, rear seat 60/40 split fold, MyLincoln Touch System, AM/FM stereo with CD/MP3 player, Sync voice-activated system, Sirius Satellite Radio, dual-zone automatic climate control, tilt/telescoping steering column, intelligent access key with push button ignition, remote start, auto-dimming rearview mirror and the reverse sensing system.  The engine provides 305 hp at 6500 rpm and torque of 280 lb-ft at 4000 rpm.  It is equipped with 20-inch chrome clad aluminum wheels.

With competitors like the Cadillac SRX, Lexus RXi, Volvo XC60, and the Infiniti FX, the Lincoln MKX hopes to fair well in its efforts by offering options.  Options include the Premium Package which consists of ambient lighting, rearview camera, and adaptive HID headlamps; the Elite Package which consists of voice-activated navigation system, Panoramic vista roof, blind spot monitoring system, and THX II certified audio system; all-wheel drive; adaptive cruise control; collision warning; and the Wood Package.  Easily the center of attention in the car’s cabin is the MyLincoln Touch Infotainment System.  It does not only look good but it also incorporates several promising features.  A technology-savvy owner will find every reason to be happy about the 2011 Lincoln MKX although new users may find it rather challenging, if not intimidating.

Interior styling has also been greatly improved as cheap-looking crude plastic surfaces bow down to nicely grained, soft touch materials, very similar to that offered by German craftsmanship.  Ride quality is actually smooth, chassis tuning is acceptable, and body roll is minimal even at sharp corners, although there are steering concerns that need refinement.

If only because of the price, we get the feeling that the MKX is less advanced than it should be.  An engine shift to the Ecoboost twin-turbocharged 3.5L V6 might just give it the needed power to have more chances of having equal footing with its competitors.  Lincoln still has to try more.  The good news is that Lincoln appears to be on its way to achieving such a status.  Never the less, the MKX still offers the best in fuel economy and horsepower in its class.