2010 Lincoln MKS Ecoboost Lockhart TX

December 10, 2009   By Zach Bowman, DriverSide Contributing Editor 
2010 Lincoln MKS


2010 Lincoln MKS
DriverSide Overview  
The 2010 Lincoln MKS will be Ford’s first model to receive its much-celebrated Ecoboost engine. The twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6 produces an amazing 355 horsepower – beating out the Blue Oval’s 4.6-liter V-8 by 40 horses and still returning fuel economy in the mid-to-upper 20s. In the all-wheel drive MKS, the powerplant delivers effortless, quiet power for one of Lincoln’s most attractive models. Subtle acoustic changes to last year’s effort help to keep the car as quiet as can be, and Ford’s engineers have worked to tweak this full-size sedan’s suspension to give it handling to match the respectable power figures from its new engine. The result is an American luxury sedan that has what it takes to go ten rounds with the best Europe and Japan has to offer.
 

What's to Like 
The new twin-turbocharged Ecoboost engine is a marvel. The two small turbos spin quickly enough to negate any hint of turbo lag, and the maximum 350 lb-ft of torque is available from 1,500 rpm all the way up to 5,200 rpm, delivering easy passes without high-revving downshifts. Fuel economy is similarly impressive from the 3.5-liter V-6; we saw up to 28 mpg during our time in the MKS.
 
What's Not to Like 
Despite Ford’s efforts to work the wallow out of the MKS’ suspension, the car continues to push in the corners and suffer from serious nose dive under hard braking. Given the car’s girth and comfortable ride, that’s somewhat acceptable, but not compared to its German competition.
 
The Drive:
DriverSide Driving Impressions 
The most surprising aspect of the MKS Ecoboost’s drive is the quiet, consistent power. Though the twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6 produces a handsome growl at higher rpm, the engine is remarkably quiet. The 355 horsepower on tap means getting hard onto the accelerator results in a pleasing push against your chest, and the six-speed automatic transmission is beautifully smooth. Ford has incorporated paddle shifters into the automatic, and unlike some models out there, these actually add to the overall driving experience instead of detracting from it. The cabin is comfortable thanks to well-bolstered leather seats and gobs of legroom, and visibility is excellent from the driver’s chair as well.
 
Engine and Drivetrain 
The exciting news from Lincoln right now is Ford’s 3.5-liter, twin-turbocharged Ecoboost V-6 engine. It offers 355 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque, and in the MKS is coupled to a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel drive drivetrain.
 
Interesting Vehicle Features and Options  
Lincoln is offering a unique sport appearance package for the 2009 M...

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