The Lincoln MKT: A Luxurious Discontinuation
The Lincoln MKT carved a niche in the luxury crossover SUV market for a decade, offering a spacious interior, refined ride, and abundance of features. Introduced for the 2010 model year, it competed with established players like the Acura MDX and Lexus RX. However, Lincoln ended production of the MKT after the 2019 model year. This article explores the Lincoln MKT's history, features, and potential reasons for its discontinuation.
A Luxurious Legacy
Lincoln, Ford's luxury brand, has a long history of building prestigious vehicles. The MKT joined a lineup that included the Navigator, a full-size SUV, and the MKX, a mid-size crossover (later replaced by the Nautilus). The MKT aimed to bridge the gap between these two, offering a luxurious three-row seating option in a comfortable and stylish package.
Standing Out from the Crowd
The MKT's design was bold and elegant. Its large chrome grille, signature Lincoln features, and flowing lines conveyed a sense of sophistication. It wasn't the most dynamic looking SUV, but it prioritized a comfortable and spacious interior. The MKT boasted an impressive 120.7-inch wheelbase, making it one of the longest in its class. This translated to ample legroom and headroom for passengers in all three rows. The cargo capacity was equally impressive, offering 17.9 cubic feet behind the third row and expanding to a generous 75.9 cubic feet with the seats folded.
Engineered for Comfort and Performance
The Lincoln MKT offered two engine choices throughout its production run. The base engine was a 3.7-liter V6 producing 305 horsepower. This engine provided adequate power for most driving situations and prioritized fuel efficiency. For those seeking more oomph, Lincoln offered a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 EcoBoost engine pumping out 365 horsepower. This engine delivered a more exhilarating driving experience without sacrificing much in terms of fuel economy. Both engines were paired with a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available for those who needed extra traction in adverse weather conditions.
Luxury at Every Touch
The Lincoln MKT's interior was a haven of comfort and luxury. Supple leather seats, woodgrain accents, and soft-touch materials swathed the cabin, creating a premium feel. The focus was on passenger comfort, with features like heated and ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a SYNC infotainment system with voice commands and navigation. Technology enthusiasts could opt for features like a surround-sound audio system and adaptive cruise control.
A Well-Equipped Ride
The Lincoln MKT came generously equipped even in its base trim. Standard features included power windows and locks, a power liftgate, automatic climate control, and a suite of safety features like anti-lock brakes, traction control, and airbags. Higher trims offered additional amenities like a power-adjustable steering wheel, a navigation system, and a rear-seat entertainment system.
Reasons for Discontinuation
Despite its luxurious features and comfortable ride, the Lincoln MKT never achieved significant sales figures. Several factors might have contributed to this. The MKT's styling, while elegant, wasn't as bold or eye-catching as some of its competitors. Additionally, the market share for luxury crossover SUVs was becoming increasingly crowded, with established brands offering strong competition. The MKT may have also suffered from cannibalization within Lincoln's own lineup, as the Navigator offered a larger, more capable option, while the MKX (later Nautilus) provided a more maneuverable alternative.
A Legacy of Luxury
The Lincoln MKT carved its niche in the luxury crossover SUV market for a decade. While it may no longer be in production, it leaves behind a legacy of spacious comfort, refined driving dynamics, and luxurious appointments. If you're looking for a luxurious, used three-row crossover SUV, the Lincoln MKT is a compelling option, offering a blend of comfort, features, and value. However, be mindful of potential maintenance costs associated with a premium vehicle.
Finding a Lincoln MKT
Since the MKT is no longer produced, you'll need to look at the used car market to find one. Fortunately, there should be a good selection available, especially in areas where Lincoln enjoys strong brand recognition. When considering a used MKT, be sure to have it inspected by a qualified mechanic to ensure it's in good condition.
The Lincoln MKT may be discontinued, but it remains a testament to Lincoln's commitment to crafting luxurious and comfortable vehicles. So, if you're in the market for a spacious, feature-rich, and refined used SUV, the Lincoln MKT is definitely worth considering.
