2011 Lincoln MKX

The majority of reviewers find the 2011 MKX's overall driving experience adequate enough, largely saying that it drives more like a luxury sedan than an SUV. Yet they are also quick to point out that the ride is geared toward comfort rather than sportiness.

• "Driving, for all intents and purposes, identically to the Edge, the MKX combines high-up seating with the feel and fuel economy of a mid-size car." -- Car and Driver
• "Steering is decently weighted, but again, it doesn't provide the confidence engendered by competing models. The MKX does offer a cushy ride, and the cabin is very quiet even at highway speeds (a rare class-competitive area). In total, it drives like a Ford Edge -- which is fine if you're paying Ford Edge money, but not if you could also afford a Mercedes GLK." -- Edmunds
• "Body lean and noseplow are evident in brisk cornering, but MKX is competent otherwise. The steering is slightly numb and light in straight-line cruising." -- Consumer Guide

Acceleration and Power

The MKX comes with a new 3.7-liter V6 engine that makes 305 horsepower (an increase over the 2010 MKX). Reviewers have yet to test the engine, but it should remedy complaints about the previous engine being sluggish under the MKX’s hefty weight.

The V6 is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission that gets a new SelectShift manual feature, which should also alleviate past concerns about the transmission being slow to shift.

The EPA has not yet rated the 2011 MKX. However, they rated 2010 front-wheel drive model at 18/25 mpg city/highway – which is one of the best ratings in its class. All-wheel drive models are rated at 17/23 mpg, which is also a very good rating for the class.

• "Ford did not release fuel-economy estimates, but claims that the 2011 will match the front-wheel-drive 2010 model's 25-mpg highway fuel-economy rating. City fuel economy for the 2010 model is 18 mpg, while all-wheel-drive versions are rated at 17/23." -- Car and Driver

Handling and Braking

Reviewers like the MKX's handling abilities, though they wish it was sportier. Reviewers criticized it for poor braking performance in the past, but the 2011 model’s revised brakes may alleviate those concerns. The available Intelligent AWD System proactively senses wheel slippage and distributes power to the wheels with the most grip.

• "It's a great highway cruiser, partly because wheels are at the far corners of the crisply styled body for better stability. The brake pedal has a linear action that allows consistently smooth stops with the anti-lock brakes. The ride is stable and supple." -- MSN
• "Even with the available 20-inch wheels, MKX absorbs most road imperfections with aplomb, resulting in a stable, comfortable ride." -- Consumer Guide