2010 Lincoln MKT Ecoboost New Orleans LA
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2010 Lincoln MKT Ecoboost
November 18, 2009 By Zach Bowman, DriverSide Contributing Editor
2010 Lincoln MKT 
2010 Lincoln MKT
DriverSide Overview
With the SUV finally beginning to fade out of popularity, manufacturers are jousting to fill the power vacuum left by the former king of family hauling. The crossover is slowly beginning to emerge as a proper successor to the throne – serving up seating for everyone in the clan, a tall ride height and car-like driving characteristics. Luxury manufacturers seem to have perfected this recipe particularly well, but until recently Lincoln has lagged behind. Next year will see the introduction of a model Ford hopes will change all that – the 2010 MKT. The rig is technically based on the Ford Flex, though the engineers under the Lincoln star are quick to point out this is a smart vehicle. The two share a massive, 117.9-inch wheelbase, but otherwise the MKT is its own beast, offering a completely different suspension and Ford’s all-new 3.5-liter Ecoboost engine. Eye-catching exterior styling and an interior that’s as spacious as it is attractive means Lincoln is ready to take on the luxury crossover segment in a serious way.
What's to Like
Despite its size, the MKT has more than enough power to put a smile on your face thanks to its 3.5-liter, twin-turbocharged V-6. The well-tuned suspension carries the crossover’s weight effortlessly – delivering a smartly-damped ride that’s firm without being jarring. The interior is beautiful with warm, wood accents and high-quality leather.
What's Not to Like
Though the MKT is technically a three-row crossover, don’t expect to fit full-grown adults in the last row of seats. The leaning rear hatch and tight legroom make for an area best left to children 12 years old and younger. The massive, waterfall Lincoln grille up front may not be to everyone’s taste, either.
The Drive:
DriverSide Driving Impressions
Ford’s engineers have done an excellent job of providing a quiet, comfortable driving experience. Thanks to the 355 horsepower on tap, the MKT breezes right along, even as we surpassed 100 mph on the Michigan Proving Grounds high-speed track. The interior is kept serene due to specific attention to cabin noise reduction, and the result is a vehicle that drives much smaller than its body size may suggest. The suspension handles variations in pavement very well, working to keep the ride smooth but stable. The six-speed automatic transmission provides quick shifts that are nearly imperceptible during normal driving conditions, too. The icing on the cake is the MKT’s acceleration, which is deceptively quick, even in spite of the vehicle’s massive 4,924-lb curb weight.
Engine and Drivetrain
The MKT will be available with two engines – a 3.7-liter, naturally a...