Plush leather, and lots of it. A dual sunroof adds a light and airy feel to the well-appointed cabin. Reasonably punchy V-6 with optional AWD makes for entertaining stab-and-steer driving. Talking with a car can be fun, and SYNC plays well with all manner of communication and entertainment devices.

Pop the rear hatch on the MKX, and you’ll find a cavernous rear storage area. The seats are especially comfortable, enveloping you without being overly soft, and there’s space enough for five people to fit comfortably. No matter how many times we review it, we’re continually impressed with Ford’s next generation navigation system.

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.

Lincoln MKT is a vehicle based on Flex architecture with styling that can only be described as classic Lincoln. Up front there’s a sweeping, familial split grille that instantly identifies this rig as a Lincoln. From there, the sides of the MKT fall into sweeping lines borrowed from successful Lincolns of the early to mid 60’s. The result is a crossover that turns its back on the classic squat SUV look.

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.

A sport package adds much-needed drivability to the MKZ, though the base model will be fine for those wanting their ride to glide over the road. Wind noise reduction is outstanding and the V-6 has been tuned to sound throatier when punched. According to Lincoln, they’ve also shaved 0.6 seconds off its 0-60 mph time. It feels like it too.