What do you get when you cross a Mercedes-Benz E Class, a Jaguar S Type and a BMW 5 Series? You get a Lincoln MKS. There is beauty in its skin but more importantly a potent well executed integration of design and technology.
The exterior looks are show-car like, especially with its optional 19” unique looking wheels and low profile tires. The front grille is modern yet evoking the classic looks of the Lincoln of yesteryear. The side profile is sleek yet powerful with its high belt line as well as a strong, angular rear deck with elegant dual exhaust chromed tips.
Inside there are still some noticeable Ford parts bin items but fortunately, this is not necessarily a bad thing. Interior fit and finish is remarkably good, no, make that incredibly good. There are some interior components that fall a bit short on workmanship, such as the sloppy gear selector and a center console that feels flimsy. These, I am sure, will be improved as production line issues are dealt with.
Seats are the optional sports version that simply put, felt heavenly. Controls and appointments are exactly as you expect them to be in this type of a luxury sedan, well laid out and with good quality overall. Our press-fleet vehicle came equipped with the optional Microsoft “Sync” integrated multi-function system that is a cut above anything in the market today. Bluetooth hands-free phone set up is a bit cumbersome, but once it’s done there is no need to reset it. The system is intuitive and easy to navigate, even for multi-function display neophytes. It works so well that most people will not want to use any other multi-function system, period. Of course, the Sync system integrates all of your onboard entertainment (Sound system is driven with THX-II technology), phone, GPS navigation as well as Sirius Satellite information which include multiple channels of music, weather, fuel stations (with pricing) as well as movies with locations and times.
Rear seating is typical for a mid-sized sedan, comfortable for two tight for three. Leg and rear head room are good. Trunk is huge but due to the dramatically sloping rear window design it suffers from a small opening, so don’t plan on putting oversized-squared cargo in this trunk.
The highlight of this car though is how it feels when you drive it. Yes, it’s a V6 but it doesn’t feel like it. There is no hint of struggling to keep up during spirited driving, quite the contrary, it felt more like an 8 cylinder. Think of the MKS V6 engine as the “strong yet silent type.” Acceleration is good, especially for a V6. Steering, brakes and suspension feel very German, that is to say, linear and with good feedback. In early 2009 a new “eco-boost” turbocharged engine option will be made available, giving the MKS even better fuel economy and performance.
With the 2009 MKS Lincoln is definitely back!
MSRP: $39,105.00 MSRP (As tested): $45,570.00
Fuel Economy (Observed): 19.2 MPG
Engine: V6, 3.7 liter, 273 HP
Popular Options: Ultimate Package (Includes Nav, voice recognition, 19” wheels, rain sensing wipers, etc.)
Visit: www.lincoln.com
Juan
G. Robbin - Automotive Writer
